The Alma Mater
I went to see Hamilton again this past week. The entire concept of creating a hip-hop version of the history of the founding of the United States is so incredibly innovative. It inspired me to think creatively about several old stories that could benefit from this treatment.
The Texas State University “Alma Mater” dates to the college’s earliest years. The lyrics were written by a professor named Jessie Sayers. She was the sister of Joseph Sayers, who was governor from 1899 to 1903. The song paints a portrait of the hilly campus above the San Marcos River and the rooftop of Old Main. It is also meant to inspire us to greatness. The lyrics are a bit dated and stilted, so I thought I would give them a modern interpretation to make the Alma Mater more relevant to the world we live in today. Here we go:
O, Alma Mater, set upon the green hills,
With turrets pointing upward to the sky,
Bill says, “You are our home on the hill — standing tall, looking to the future. A place that feels both grounded and full of possibility. Texas State will always have a special place in our hearts.”
We yield to thee our love and our devotion;
Mother of hopes and aspirations high.
Bill says, “You helped raise us. We give you our loyalty and our love. You were the launchpad for our hopes and dreams — the place that helped shape who we have become.”
Thy spirit urges us to deeds of valor,
Raising the fallen, cheering the oppressed;
Bill says, “You taught us not just to succeed, but to stand up for others — to be brave, lift people up, and fight for what’s right. We are the privileged few and much is expected of us.”
Thy call will echo clearly down the ages,
Dear Alma Mater, mother loved and blessed.
Bill says, “Your influence will live on — long after we’ve graduated, your impact will stay with us. You are a beloved part of our lives, now and always. I am a Forever Bobcat!”
The “Alma Mater” is more than nostalgia — it is a call to be courageous, compassionate, and proud. The alma mater celebrates Texas State not just as a place of learning, but as a source of inspiration that calls us to live with purpose. I hope that someone out there will give it the Hamilton treatment and make it cool again. I’ll even commit to learning the rap.
