University of Louisiana at Lafayette Athletics
Alma Mater
10/28/2011 1:21:00 AM | Athletics
Have you heard the words of the Alma Mater? It is not surprising that some have never heard the words to the UL Alma Mater. On the other hand, many have heard the music to it since it is played at the UL football games. Although it is played, many alumni only stand and listen instead of singing along. This is unfortunate since the lyrics of the UL alma mater are as much a part of the colege experience as the classes and extra-curricular activities. Each individual should have pride for UL. One of the many ways to show such pride is by knowing the UL alma mater.
Click here for the lyrics and the music.
History of the Alma Mater
In the early 1900's, when the school opened as Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institue, SLII had no alma mater. It was not until 1924, when Helen Wentz won a contest put on by the Student Council, that SLII had lyrics to the alma mater. Unfortunately, the music Wentz chose, Steven Foster's "My Little Gypsy Sweetheat," was copyrighted. Another contest was held 26 years later to choose the music for the Alma Mater. This contest was being held for the 50 year celebration of the school. At a concert later that year on December 20, 1950, Mrs. J.J. Fournet's music was chosen for the Alma Mater by alumni and students.
Why should I stand and sing?
Thanks to these two individuals the University has it's Alma Mater, an Alma Mater that forms pride, honor, truth, and wisdom that enhances the many joys of the time spent at UL. So the next time you support the Cajuns and hear that lovely tune, you can stand up and say that I know those words and would be honored to sing about the "Pride of our Southland so fair!"
