By Steve Tawa

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (CBS) – One of the three new members of the Board of Trustees at Penn State came from the gridiron.

The alumni election for three seats on Penn State’s Board of Trustees played out like a political election – with unprecedented interest.

It was the trustee’s first election since the board ousted Joe Paterno, following child abuse charges against retired defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky.

Trustee Stephanie Deviney says the total number of ballots received was more than 37,500.

“First, Adam J. Taliaferro, 15,629.”

Taliaferro, now a lawyer, is the former defensive back for Paterno who recovered from a severe spinal injury suffered in 2000, while making a tackle at Ohio State.

Another notable candidate was prominent donor Anthony Lubrano, who reportedly spent $25,000 on an ad campaign.

“Second, Anthony P. Lubrano, 10,096.”

Lubrano has been outspoken against coach Paterno’s firing.

“Third, Ryan J. McCombie, 4,806. The results of all 86 candidates will be posted publicly in the near future.”

McCombie is a retired U.S. Navy captain. The new trustees take office July 1st.