The Story Behind President Ottosson’s $2 Tradition

08/21/2026

What began as a personal gift to William Penn University President John Ottosson has grown into one of his favorite traditions during his time at Penn.

The story began with 1967 WPU alumnus Lafii Jafari, who presented Ottosson with a number of $2 bills as a personal gift. Rather than keep the money for himself, Ottosson asked Jafari if he would be comfortable with him sharing the bills with William Penn students.

Jafari agreed.

Ottosson saw an opportunity to turn the gift into something more than a simple exchange of money. He began giving the $2 bills to students as a way to connect with them on a personal level while encouraging them to take pride in being part of the William Penn community.

The tradition gave Ottosson another reason to stop and talk with students around campus. A $2 bill could be the beginning of a conversation, an opportunity to learn a student’s name or story, or simply a small reminder to show their Penn pride by wearing William Penn colors or University merchandise.

For Ottosson, the tradition has never really been about the $2.

It has been about the people.

Jafari’s own story makes the tradition even more meaningful. A 1967 William Penn alumnus from Jordan, Jafari was also a talented cross country runner who represented his home country in the Olympic Games. His connection to Penn extended well beyond his time as a student, and his generosity helped create a tradition that would continue long after his passing.

Following Jafari’s death, the tradition did not end. More than half a dozen supporters continue to provide Ottosson with $2 bills so he can keep sharing them with students.

In that way, Jafari’s original gift continues to make its way across campus.

Each $2 bill carries with it a small piece of the story: an alumnus who wanted to give back, a president who wanted to turn that generosity toward students, and a community of supporters who have helped keep the tradition alive.

Over the years, those bills have provided Ottosson with countless opportunities to meet students, hear their stories, and build the personal relationships that are at the heart of his time at William Penn.

It is a simple tradition, but its meaning goes beyond the value printed on the bill.