08/20/2020
AAMU Alma Mater
This is the original copy of the Alabama A&M University Alma Mater. The fourth President of Alabama A&M University, Dr. Joseph Fanning Drake, wrote the University hymn early in his tenure. Drake served as the University President from 1927 to 1962. His lyrics are a tribute to AAMU Founder Dr. William Hooper Councill and his legacy. On the top left, Drake wrote “Words by President J.F. Drake.” On the top right, he wrote “Music Adopted.” AAMU alumni around the world know and respect the hymn, as will each new student continuing their education at AAMU. “Long Live They Fame!”
"Alabama A&M” (Alma Mater)
Alabama A&M
Rich in Heritage divine
Bless’d by the life of Councill brave
Who gave his all that thou might’st shine.
Many thy brave and loyal sons
Sent from thy shrine on Normal’s Hill
Filled with a zeal for tasks well done
Anxious thy mandates to fulfill.
Long may you live to bless the world
For right and justice take a stand
As from your rocky heights you view
Your children’s work throughout the land.
Chorus
Alma Mater, blest be thy name.
Long live thy fame; long live thy fame!
(Photo courtesy the Office of the President Collection; AAMU Archives and Special Collections)