The beloved "Alma Mater" for Xavier was written by Nellie H. Crawford, one of the original students who attended Xavier Normal School -- which preceded the establishment of the University -- in 1915 and who was a member of its first graduating class in 1917. The melody comes from an old Irish tune called "Annie Lisle."

To hear the Xavier University chorus members' rendition of the Alma Mater click below.

This text will be replaced by the flash music player.

* [Please note that the audio version is abridged, since the Alma Mater is traditionally sung with only verses 1 and 3.]

XAVIER UNIVERSITY ALMA MATER
-by Nellie H. Crawford ('17)

(VERSE ONE):
In the Mississippi Valley,
In the Crescent Bend
Stands our loved and noble Xavier,
Far her praises send.

(CHORUS/REFRAIN):
Wave her colors bear them onward
Gold and white so true
Hail to thee, all hail, dear Xavier
Hail, all hail, X.U.!

* (VERSE TWO):
The sailor loves his haven pier,
The flowers love the dew;
Thy children love no name so well
As thy dear name, X.U.

(CHORUS/REFRAIN...)

(VERSE THREE):
Xavier, ever be our guide
And lead us on the way,
Through life's journey, onward, upward
To the eternal day.

(CHORUS/REFRAIN...)