Alma mater gets swinging update

Lamar University’s alma mater has a new sound this fall after a faculty recital performance unexpectedly led to the evolution of the traditional song. 

Reese Maultsby, assistant professor of percussion and director of percussion studies, arranged a jazz-influenced version of the alma mater for a faculty showcase concert earlier this year. What began as a last-minute idea caught the attention of Lamar President Jaime Taylor and Vice President for Advancement Juan Zabala. 

“They came up to me and said, ‘This needs to be the new version of the alma mater,’” Maultsby said. “I never thought it would turn into something official. It was just meant to be fun.” 

The arrangement, which features a New Orleans–style groove reflecting the cultural character of Southeast Texas, was adapted for marching and pep bands over the summer. It debuted at the university’s intramural field ribbon-cutting ceremony and has since been performed at athletic events. 

The alma mater was originally written by Gilbert Rhodes Smartt, a math professor who took on the challenge after being asked to by then school president John Gray in 1954.  

University leaders, including director of bands Andrew McMahan, music department chair Michael Bartnik, CoFaC Dean Golden Wright, and Zabala, helped formalize the change. 

2018 graduate John Ellis said he supports the new arrangement.

“It’s rare to be part of a moment like this,” he said. “One day, students will look back and say, ‘I was there when they changed the alma mater.’ That’s history in the making.

“At first, I was attached to the old version because that’s what I knew. But when the tubas came in with that upbeat vibe, I thought, ‘I like this a lot.’ It felt like Lamar — fun, unique, and connected to our Cajun influence here in Southeast Texas.”

Other alumni, however, say the decision is bittersweet. Cameron Montgomery, a 2024 graduate who spent six years in Lamar’s marching and basketball bands, said the traditional alma mater carried a solemn weight that united generations of Cardinals. 

“It was a serious moment for the entire student body to come together to celebrate Lamar, to review its ideals, to remind ourselves of what it means to be a Cardinal,” he said. “For me, it always gave me a time to lock in and appreciate it for what it is.” 

When he first heard the new arrangement, Montgomery said he felt “both excited and worried.” 

“As a musician, it captured me — especially the saxophone counter-melody,” he said. “But at the same time, I lost track of the core melody. It made me wonder, where will this arrangement fit?” 

The shift marks a change for Lamar, where traditions hold a deep connection for alumni. Maultsby said he understands the hesitation some may feel.

“Any change in tradition comes with challenges,” Maultsby said. “I think it’s important for people to see this not as a replacement of the old, but as a new addition.” 

Maultsby said students in the marching band also contributed feedback during rehearsals, helping refine the performance for all instruments. 

So far, Maultsby said, most reactions have been positive. Alumni and community members have expressed enthusiasm about the lively twist. 

“To me, an alma mater is about bringing people together — students, alumni, faculty — all with arms around each other, singing and celebrating school pride,” Maultsby said. “This version is meant to capture that sense of fun and togetherness.” 

Maultsby added that for incoming freshmen, the new version sets a spirited first impression. 

“It has a beat, it’s danceable, it’s fun,” he said. “I love that their introduction to Lamar’s school song is one full of energy.” 

Maultsby said he remains surprised that his arrangement has become part of Lamar’s legacy. 

“I couldn’t be more honored,” he said. “I just hope that when people hear it, they feel unity and joy.”