Traditions
Alma Mater
We sing our alma mater during commencement, freshman convocation and other events to demonstrate our devotion to ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½. Written in 2021 by composer Robert W. Smith, the lyrics highlight our unique and storied history and evoke pride and community for our great university.
Arsenal Bell
The Arsenal Bell is rung three times at the beginning and end of every Convocation and Commencement Ceremony. The bell was part of the U.S. Arsenal property acquired by the Junior College of ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ in 1957. It serves as a resounding celebration of our past, present and future.
Class Rings
AU's Class Ring includes the iconic shield surrounded by the university’s name and founding year. Elements of the ring pay tribute to the history of ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ and allow customizations to celebrate the individuality of each student.
History Walk on Summerville
Honoring our university’s history, ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½'s History Walk is a one-mile loop around our beautiful Summerville Campus. A wide brick walkway guides you along historical markers, including the restored arsenal guardhouse, circa 1866, and our gorgeous southern landscape.
Official University Tartan
At ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½, we are creating a legacy together. We celebrate our colors, ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Blue and ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Grey, in our official tartan as an opportunity to celebrate ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½'s story. The tartan symbolizes the feeling of pride associated with being a part of the ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ community.
Toss a Penny in the Fountain
During orientation as a sign of good luck and new beginnings, students throw a penny in the fountain at the entrance of the Summerville Campus. When the fountain is drained for cleaning, the money is collected and given to the AU Foundation for student scholarships.
Wear JagSwag on Fridays
Fridays are good, but they’re even better when you get to wear your Jag gear. Spirit Fridays give faculty, staff, students and alumni the chance to show their school spirit by wearing their ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ blue and grey. Get your Jag gear at the RoarStore.
ALMA MATER
for ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Past, Present and Future
VERSE
In the shade of the mighty oak
we forge our destiny.
Through knowledge, truth and honor,
our journey clear to see.
We draw upon the courage
and guidance of the past.
We boldly build our future
with friends that everlast.
CHORUS
ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½, ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½,
The bell rings for me.
ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½, ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½,
It tolls our history.
ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½, ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½
Sounding to the world.
With vision for the ages,
ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½, we are A - U!
About AU
ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½â€™s uniqueness shines through the university’s diverse and inclusive community, world-class academics and experiential learning opportunities in computer and cyber sciences, business, art and more. ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ is Georgia’s designated center of health and sciences excellence, where groundbreaking research is creating a healthier, stronger Georgia.