Augusta University introduces a new alma mater song

By Kayla Portillo | Staff writer

From old traditions to new ones, Augusta University introduced  its all-new alma mater at the Freshman Convocation on Aug. 10, 2021. 

The song is titled Augusta: The Bell Rings for Me. It highlights the nurturing qualities of the University as it is today.  As the lyrics say, “Through knowledge, truth, and honor our journey clear to see. We draw up the courage and guidance of that past. We boldly build our future with friends that ever last.”

Members of the Commencement Committee initiated the development of the new alma mater song with the help of Assistant Vice President of Protocol and Special Events Suzanne Tatum and Department Chair for Music Angela Morgan; the alma mater was finalized and approved by AU President Brooks Keel. For the first time in AU history, it was publicly performed for the upcoming class of 2025. 

Assistant Professor of Voice and Director of the Opera Initiative Christi Amonson performed the inaugural singing of the alma mater and said that it was an honor to be at the event. 

“I’m honored to have participated at such a historical event that rebirthed a new alma mater,” she said. “This is the future of Augusta University, and we hope to further incorporate it in our college traditions.” 

Freshman Makaila Taylor attended the convocation for her class of 2025 and said that it was a pleasant way of starting her academic career at AU. 

“I had no idea that our class just so happened to be the first to hear the new anthem, and I thought it was pretty cool that they chose to present it at our convocation,” she said. “We all felt welcomed and ready to start our new educational journey here at AU.” 

Students and staff are encouraged to learn the new alma mater as it will be sung in future ceremonies including the December Commencement for Augusta University graduates.

Contact Kayla Portillo at kportillo@augusta.edu.