Nike president Phil Knight gave the eulogy at Joe Paterno’s memorial service Jan. 26 in the Bryce Jordan Center.

But the company decided Thursday to change the name of the Joe Paterno Child Development Center, a child care facility at its headquarters in Beaverton, Ore., after the Freeh report was released.

CEO Mark Parker said he was saddened that Paterno and other top school administrators disregarded the welfare of former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky's victims as they failed to report sex abuse allegations.

"It is a terrible tragedy that children were unprotected from such abhorrent crimes,” Parker said in a statement.

Knight also issued a statement regarding Paterno.

“Other than my parents, my college coach, Bill Bowerman, was the biggest influence in my life. Bill Bowerman and Joe Paterno shared some great qualities,” Knight said.

“Throughout Joe Paterno’s career, he strived to put young athletes in a position to succeed and win in sport but most importantly in life. Joe influenced thousands of young men to become better leaders, fathers and husbands.



“According to the investigation, it appears Joe made missteps that led to heartbreaking consequences. I missed that Joe missed it, and I am extremely saddened on this day. My love for Joe and his family remains.”