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#SockIt2Paul

My name is Paul Cifford.

I am a 51-year-old husband, father of three, and higher education administrator who has lived with a serious heart condition since 2015, when I collapsed following the Oregon-Ohio State College Football National Championship game in Dallas, Tx. I woke up in Baylor Hospital with a defibrillator and pacemaker. Because of my family history, I pursued genetic testing in 2017, which revealed a FLNC mutation that attacks the heart's pump function, putting me on an inevitable path toward transplant.

After ten months on the waiting list, I was admitted to Penn State Health's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in May 2025 for advanced heart failure care, including a life support heart pump. Facing an indefinite hospital stay, I launched a lighthearted social media campaign asking friends to send me themed socks to feature daily on Instagram (@pjc4pennstate). I called the project #SockIt2Paul.

What started as a simple way to stay connected became the #SockIt2Paul movement, generating an overwhelming outpouring of support from family, friends, colleagues, and complete strangers worldwide. After just twelve days in the hospital, I learned a donor heart was available. The transplant took place on my birthday, giving me the chance to witness my children's graduations, weddings, and grow old with my college sweetheart and wife of 27 years. It will also allow me to continue my career in higher education, working to make it accessible to all. On June 3, 2025, I was released to go home and recover.

When I checked in at Penn State's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, I asked myself, "How do I want to approach this journey?" I focused on my mindset and decided that the only way to do it was the way I had always done things in my life: focus on what I could control and let go of what I couldn't. My approach is to meet each day, each moment with POSITIVITY, OPTIMISM, and an ENTHUSIASM UNKNOWN TO MANKIND ( I learned this from Dick Vitale when I was 15 reading his book, thanks Coach). And I will approach all of this with CURIOSITY, VULNERABILITY, KINDNESS AND GRATITUDE!

I hope you enjoy this site.

View Gratitude Project

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My Blog

Centre Daily Times - July 7, 2025

1 day ago1 min read

Mindset, Micro-Goals, and Winning the Day

Jun 223 min read

Video: Coach James Franklin's visit

Jun 180 min read

Media Coverage

Jun 131 min read

Press Release: Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center performs 600th heart transplant

Jun 101 min read

May 16 Interview on SSPTV-Hazleton

Jun 100 min read

Update - New Heart Received and Going Home

Jun 102 min read

Admitted to Penn State’s Milton Hershey Medical Center

Jun 101 min read

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Nancy Bird.

Nancy and I were colleagues at the Penn State Alumni Association, where she served as our Director of Alumni Development. A brilliant fundraiser and loyal Penn Stater, Nancy now serves as Vice President for Advancement at Gannon University in her hometown of Erie, Pennsylvania.

Nancy has always had a remarkable gift for fundraising. She has a true talent for listening, hearing donor passions, and uncovering the intersections where those passions align with opportunities to advance the institution’s mission. She was also a thoughtful and intentional steward, ensuring that every gift made a lasting impact.

But what impressed me most about Nancy was how she made space to be not just a great professional, but also a devoted mother, wife, and friend. Her “friend trips” and visits with her children, shared with her husband Fred, were sacred. She looked forward to them with joy, and they reflected her commitment to living a full, meaningful life. In a profession that often struggles with work-life balance, Nancy modeled what striving for it can look like.

Nancy, thank you for these Gannon socks in celebration of your university’s centennial. It was a privilege to work alongside you, to learn from you, and to help move Penn State forward together. I’m grateful for your support on my heart transplant journey and even more grateful to have you in my corner.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from my former boss at James Madison University, and lifelong mentors and friends, Geoff and Paula Polglase.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate throughout my career to work for bosses who were also teachers—people who invested in my growth and believed that developing their team would only strengthen the work we were doing together. Geoff was one of those rare leaders. He had this calm, steady way of handling crises: he’d take a deep breath, smile, assess the situation, ask how we could fix it, and, most importantly, how to avoid it in the future. All while teaching.

One of my more memorable (and expensive) lessons came from a mistake I made on a football tailgate brochure, beautifully designed, except for one small detail: I had flipped two game dates. It was a multi-thousand-dollar error. Geoff’s response? “Well, we just spent $5,000 to educate you. Don’t let it happen again.” It was said with a smile, and I never forgot it.

Geoff also introduced me to CASE, taking me to my first conference and helping me navigate it. He taught me two things that I still hold dear: First, build your personal board of directors, the trusted colleagues you can call, confide in, and grow with. I met many of mine on that trip, and two decades later, we’re still connected. Second, he taught me to never eat at chain restaurants when traveling. “You can get Applebee’s at home,” he’d say. “Eat where the locals eat. Learn the city.” That simple advice has become a guiding principle in how I travel and experience new places.

Paula was a wonderful colleague at JMU, especially through our work together on Homecoming and other university committees. Today, she serves as Executive Director of the JMU Alumni Association, and Geoff is Senior Associate Athletic Director for JMU Athletics. They’ve raised three incredible boys and know how to live life with joy and purpose.

Geoff and Paula, thank you for the Duke Dog and JMU socks, and for your continued friendship, mentorship, and support on my heart transplant journey. They mean so much because you mean so much.

Go Dukes!

This is an update from a previous post, which I got wrong. Apologies for mistaking whom the socks were from. The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from my brother-in-law Adam’s parents, Adam and Barbara.

Adam and Barbara have become part of the Clifford family. They’re always present at family gatherings, and deeply missed when they’re not. Through both good times and challenging moments, they’ve been a source of steady, unwavering support.

They are incredible grandparents to my niece and nephew, Ashton and Christopher, and they have been a constant source of strength for my sister, my father, and our entire family, especially following the loss of my mom last year. Their kindness and presence have meant more than words can express.

I absolutely love the Elmo and Cookie Monster socks they sent. I’ve always had a soft spot for Sesame Street, and these brought an instant smile to my face.

Adam and Barbara, thank you for your thoughtful gift, for all that you do for our family, and for being with me every step of the way on this heart transplant journey. I’m truly grateful.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Courtney Stombock, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations at the American University of Paris (AUP).

Courtney is a talented advancement professional whose leadership at AUP is both strategic and inspiring. AUP is also a valued client of Chris Marshall Advancement Consulting (CMAC).

I love the socks Courtney sent, because if you know anything about Paris, you know it’s a city defined by its culture, cuisine, and the iconic Seine River. These socks celebrate the third: the Seine. In Paris, directions often reference “Rive Gauche” (left bank) or “Rive Droite” (right bank), as the river splits the city in two. Knowing which bank you’re on is key to getting around, and these socks are a perfect nod to that timeless Parisian detail.

Courtney, thank you for these thoughtful and meaningful socks—and for your support throughout my heart transplant journey. Your kindness means so much. I’m grateful for your friendship and for the partnership you’ve built with CMAC. I look forward to continuing our shared work in support of global higher education and to seeing all that you continue to achieve at AUP.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from CASE, the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education, and my colleagues there, Chase Moore and Brian Flahaven.

CASE has been foundational to my professional growth. From my very first conference in Orlando to last year’s summit, CASE has been my go-to professional development organization. I’ve learned so much about our field thanks to the generosity of colleagues across the globe who share their time, expertise, and best practices.

Chase Moore, Executive Director of Volunteer Engagement and Leadership for the U.S. and Canada, leads an expansive volunteer network with great care and effectiveness. His ability to build and sustain relationships across this vast community helps keep CASE thriving.

Brian Flahaven, CASE’s Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, has been a longtime collaborator. We’ve worked together on several initiatives—from government relations efforts that mobilize alumni to support higher education policy, to national partnerships like the Commission on the Value of Higher Education with ACE and the Gates Foundation. Brian is always professional, well-prepared, mission-focused, and a lot of fun to work with. I’ve appreciated every opportunity to learn and serve alongside him.

Chase and Brian, thank you for these CASE socks, a great symbol of where my journey in advancement began, and of the role you’ve played along the way. I’m deeply grateful for your continued support, your belief in me, and for standing with me on this heart transplant journey. Thank you.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from our former neighbors, Mark and Jennifer Theiss, who recently relocated to Cincinnati to work for the University of Cincinnati Foundation. They sent a fantastic pair of FC Cincinnati socks from Major League Soccer.

Jenny and I have become big soccer fans, especially of the MLS. While we cheer for the Portland Timbers and the Portland Thorns in the NWSL, we have a deep appreciation for the league as a whole—and I’ve truly loved all the soccer-themed socks I’ve received throughout this journey. From FC Austin to the Chicago Fire and Chicago Red Stars, and now FC Cincinnati, they’ve all brought a smile to my face.

Mark and Jennifer, I hope you’re loving your new adventure in Cincinnati. Thank you so much for these awesome socks, for your friendship over the years, and for your continued support on my heart transplant journey. I’m grateful for friends like you.

Thank you.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Sean Miller, a colleague and friend through Penn State. Sean is a talented development officer who has served in numerous roles at the university, including as Director of Development for the Schreyer Honors College, and now as Senior Director of Development for the Smeal College of Business.

I knew some friends would send spicy socks, but this one really caught me off guard in the best way. Sean is classy and professional, so getting this particular pair was a hilarious and unexpected surprise. Let’s just say the language on these socks isn’t exactly family-friendly, but I appreciate the sentiment, the bold enthusiasm, and the humor behind it.

Sean’s always been in my corner. Through him, I’ve gotten to know other amazing members of the Miller family: his brother Seth, another proud Penn Stater living in Florida, and their sister. I’ve always enjoyed traveling to Penn State events and away football games with Sean. Watching a game with him is a blast—he’s a passionate and loyal Nittany Lion through and through.

Sean is now leading the Smeal College of Business development team, and under his leadership, the college is poised to hit, or has already hit, an all-time fundraising record. That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a testament to his ability to build strong teams, set bold goals, and bring people together to make it happen.

Sean, thank you for the socks, bold message, and all, and for your friendship, texts, and calls. Your support means the world to me. I’m grateful to have you in my corner on this heart transplant journey.

Family-friendly or not, these socks make me laugh, and I proudly wear the compliment. We Are!

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from none other than Kelly Hosko and naturally, they feature the face of Kelly Hosko herself. These are absolutely hysterical. I opened the package and immediately burst out laughing, because this is just so Kelly. Full of humor, personality, and joy.

Kelly was a colleague of mine at the Penn State Alumni Association before moving on to roles in the President’s Office and other positions across the university. No matter where she was, Kelly could always be counted on for a good laugh and a great joke, especially her signature Laffy Taffy jokes that still make me smile when I think of them.

Kelly, thank you so much for these uplifting and unforgettable socks. I love them, and I love that you added the hashtag #SockIt2Paul to them as well. I’m incredibly grateful for your thoughtfulness and your support on this heart transplant journey.

Thank you for the laughter, the kindness, and for being in my corner.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Todd McCubbin of the University of Missouri Alumni Association, who sent me a pair of Mizzou socks, and I absolutely love them!

Todd serves as the Executive Director of the Mizzou Alumni Association and as Chief Alumni Engagement Officer. Since joining Mizzou in 1995 as Coordinator of Alumni Relations, Todd has held several key positions before becoming Executive Director in 2004. Over the years, he’s led numerous areas including legislative advocacy, athletic events, chapter relations, annual giving, marketing, and non-dues revenue programs. He’s also guided teams focused on donor relations and alumni communications.

During his tenure, Todd has been part of two advancement leadership teams that completed $1 billion campaigns—a remarkable achievement. Under his leadership, the Mizzou Alumni Association has received 23 national programming awards from CASE since 1999. Todd has also served in numerous roles for CASE at both district and national levels, including the Commission on Alumni Relations. He is a longtime member and former board member of the Council of Alumni Association Executives (CAAE).

I share all of this because Todd has truly been one of the best in our business for more than two decades. His insight, innovation, and leadership have shaped the profession in countless ways—and certainly influenced me. I learn something every time I talk to him. Whether it’s how he leads his team, approaches alumni engagement, or thinks about the future of our work, Todd has helped sharpen my own thinking and vision for what’s possible in our field.

Todd, thank you for these awesome Mizzou socks and even more so for your friendship, mentorship, and leadership over the years. I’m grateful for your support on this heart transplant journey, and even more grateful to have you as a colleague and friend.

We Are…and M-I-Z!

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from the Kagundu family: Anne, Paul, Krista, Klara, and Kelsie.

Anne was a wonderful colleague at the Penn State Alumni Association, where she served as our Director of First Impressions. She welcomed guests to the Alumni Center with warmth, care, and professionalism. Having someone like Anne at the front desk truly set the tone for the entire organization.

She has since taken her talents to the Smeal College of Business, where she now works in their Development and Alumni Relations office. Her husband, Paul, is a faculty member in the Economics Department, and together they’re raising three wonderful daughters. One of the joys of this role has been getting to know the families of colleagues like Anne, and hers is one of the best.

It’s funny the little things you remember about people—like how Anne’s favorite donut is the plain cake donut from Dunkin’. I also remember learning that their family moved to State College from Uganda, where they still have loved ones. These are the details that stick with you when people leave an impact.

The socks Anne sent are perfect—purple bow ties! If you know me, you know two things: I’m a bow tie guy, and purple is my favorite color. So, to say Anne nailed it would be an understatement. These socks are a reflection of her thoughtfulness and the kind of friend she is.

Anne, thank you for your friendship, for these colorful and meaningful socks, and for the constant support you and your family have shown during my heart transplant journey. I’m grateful for all of you, and grateful to have you in my corner.

We Are!

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Melissa Ritz, a friend of my sister Amy and her running partner. Melissa sent me these fantastic “I Dig History” socks, which couldn’t be more perfect given my background as a history major. They’re thoughtful, clever, and spot-on.

Even better, Melissa introduced me to John’s Crazy Socks, the world’s largest sock store online. I’m tagging them here because it’s a great company that brings joy through socks—and clearly knows how to pick the right pair for the right person.

Melissa is not only a good friend to our family, but she’s also an avid marathon runner. She’s qualified for Boston and has already completed major races like Berlin, London, Steamtown, and many more.

Melissa, thank you so much for your kindness, your friendship, and your encouragement on this journey. And thank you for sending these amazing socks that speak to my love of history, you nailed it. #lovemyjcs

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from the Bernstein family. I grew up with Rick Bernstein, his brother Luke, and sister Kami. While Rick and I weren’t particularly close friends growing up, I’m so glad that life—and Penn State—have brought us back into each other’s orbit. Through Rick and his wife Danielle’s friendship with my sister Amy and brother-in-law Adam, our families have grown close, and we’re incredibly grateful for that connection.

The socks they sent say “Life is better at the beach,” and they couldn’t be more accurate. The Bernsteins clearly know our family well—we cherish our beach vacations and look forward to them all year long, just like they do. These socks are a fun reminder of the joy and peace that comes with time by the ocean.

Rick married Danielle, who is not only thoughtful and generous but also incredibly talented. She’s an elementary school teacher, a children’s book author, and a sea glass jewelry artist. Along with the socks, she sent me a beautiful sea glass necklace that I absolutely love. I’ve worn it often, and it means so much to me. It’s a truly special gift that I will always cherish.

Rick, for his part, is a successful real estate executive and entrepreneur, and it’s been great watching all that he and Danielle have built together, not just professionally, but in the family they built and community life as well.

Rick and Danielle, thank you so much for your friendship, your thoughtfulness, and your support during this heart transplant journey. You are truly great family friends, and we are lucky to have you in our lives. Thank you for being there for us.

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Neil ’65, ’66 and Donna ’67 Dorsey, a proud Pirate pair who gifted me these awesome tartan ECU Alumni socks.

Neil and Donna have been tremendous supporters of East Carolina University for decades, generously giving their time, talent, and treasure to advance the ECU Alumni Scholarship Program. I had the honor of recruiting Neil to join the ECU Alumni Association Board, where he made an immediate impact through his thoughtful leadership and steadfast commitment. He holds both a BA and MA in History from ECU, and he truly is a Pirate treasure. Today, he continues to serve ECU as an Emeritus Board Member, a designation earned through years of meaningful service.

Neil and Donna are die-hard Pirate fans, the kind who show up, cheer loud, and give back. Neil in particular is the kind of volunteer every organization hopes for: loyal, dedicated, and driven by high standards and big expectations. His approach has always been one that pushes the organization forward, ensuring progress while honoring tradition. Volunteers like Neil and Donna are the backbone of alumni associations. They set the tone, build community, and make sure students and alumni alike feel supported and proud to wear the purple and gold.

Neil and Donna, thank you for these incredible socks and, more importantly, for your enduring support of ECU, of the alumni community, and of me. I’m grateful for your friendship, your Pirate spirit, and your belief in the power of connection.

Go Pirates!

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Kimmie Stanziola. Kimmie and her brother Mike were friends of mine from West Hazleton High School, and I’m so grateful that we’ve stayed connected.

I love these “I Believe in Santa” socks—because I do still believe in the magic of Christmas. They made me smile and brought back fond memories of simpler times and the joy of the holiday season. The socks were inspired by Kimmie’s business, Coastal Christmas Shoppe, which she owns with her husband, Neil. They have three festive locations in Savannah, GA; Hilton Head, SC; and Fernandina Beach, FL. It’s no surprise these socks are so perfect—Christmas is literally part of her world year-round!

Kimmie now lives in Hilton Head with Neil and their dog, Yoda.
Kimmie, thank you for your thoughtful gift, your kind support, and for being in my corner on this heart transplant journey. I appreciate you!

The next pair of socks in the #SockIt2Paul series comes from Sally and Stan Anderson in Chicago, Illinois.

Sally is an executive at Google, where she serves as Director, People Consulting Lead. Over the years, she’s held several influential roles there, including Director of U.S. All Business and Workforce Diversity Director. She began her career with Hyatt Hotels’ corporate office and has become a recognized leader in the HR field.

A proud Penn State alumna with a B.S. in Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management, Sally has been a dedicated and engaged alum. She served multiple terms on the Penn State Alumni Council and Executive Board and was recognized by the Alumni Association as the 2005 Recent Alumnus of the Year and the 2016 Outstanding Alumni Council Member. Outside of Penn State, she serves on the SHRM Board of Directors and is a three-term past president of Chicago SHRM. Among her many honors, she was named one of the “Most Powerful & Influential Women” by the Illinois Diversity Council and a 2020 Notable Leader in HR by Crain’s.

Stan is also a proud Penn Stater, with a B.S. in Accounting and International Business, and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Today, he is Senior Director of Front Office Operations at Harris Associates, where he leads teams focused on operations, data governance, and strategy. His career spans consulting and corporate roles, and he brings deep expertise in business analysis, project management, and technology.

I first met Sally through Alumni Council and got to know Stan and their three children soon after. Both Sally and Stan are Penn State Blue Band alums and longtime champions of the University. They’re always at Blue Band reunions and Homecoming, and they’ve been generous with their time and wisdom. Sally has been a confidant and sounding board for me, which I appreciate!.

Their gift of Google-themed socks is “out of this world” and perfectly captures their thoughtful, creative spirit. I’m grateful for their friendship and for their support throughout my heart transplant journey.

Sally and Stan, thank you for always being in my corner. I look forward to seeing you again soon. We Are!

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Check out the socks on Instagram

#SockIt2Paul

@pjc4pennstate

The Gratitude Project

Our project, #SockIt2Paul, aims to document a heart transplant journey and emphasize the importance of gratitude during the healing process. Each pair of socks symbolizes a token of love and support.

Through showcasing these socks and the accompanying notes, we aim to inspire others with the healing power of gratitude and raise awareness about organ donation.