Gordon, in his final season of a 23-year career, finished 14th on Sunday in a No. 24 Chevrolet SS outfitted in Penn State blue and white alongside Axalta's company logo.
Smeal College of Business and College of Engineering students got an immersive race experience that included a tour of the raceway’s garages, details on the technology of modern race cars, a glimpse at the business aspects of a major sport and the chance to network with Axalta executives, whose company does business in more than 130 countries.
“In school we learn abstract things like leadership, collaboration, open communication,” said Tony Bae, a sophomore in the Division of Undergraduate Studies. “This is our opportunity to not only gain insights but also apply what we’ve learned.”
Gordon, along with Axalta representatives, visited campus on April 14 to unveil the car’s Penn State paint scheme, take it for a spin on campus, discuss the partnership and sample some Bittersweet Mint ice cream at the Penn State Berkey Creamery. Fans also got a glimpse of the car at the Blue-White game April 18.
On Saturday night, students also attended a dinner with Gordon, racing expert Ray Evernham and Axalta representatives at the nearby Camelback Resort.
“Its not an easy task to pull off,” said Gordon about the partnership. “We know the work that went in to making it happen, and now I get the benefit of going out there and representing a great school — blue and white — as well as a great brand and company in Axalta. It’s going to be a fun day for me no matter what.”
A four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, Gordon is also a three-time Daytona 500 winner and five-time Brickyard 400 champion.
Four Penn State journalism students are also using the race to sharpen their skills; in partnership with The Centre Daily Times newspaper in State College, students are providing written dispatches and photography throughout the weekend.
The team arrived Friday, covering a press conference and Gordon’s qualifying laps to determine his starting position Sunday.