School Pride at the University of Illinois

Throughout the rich history of universities, a distinct symbol has consistently embodied the spirit of school pride. At the University of Illinois, this emblematic figure is none other than the Alma Mater. From the inception of the Alma Mater, a profound connection has been forged, weaving a tale of history and pride amongst the students and staff at the University of Illinois. Even today, the omnipresent image of the Alma Mater graces storefronts and postcards, making its mark across the campus.

All made possible by a simple motto.

It is through the University of Illinois's enduring motto, "Learning and Labor," that a set of values has been instilled, persisting through generations in the form of a captivating work of art. While the Illinois Loyalty song echoes in our hearts, it is the school motto, "Learning and Labor," that captured the imagination of artist Lorado Taft. In 1929, on Alumni day, Taft's "gift" to the University, the Alma Mater, was dedicated, marking the fiftieth anniversary of his graduation.

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This motto and symbol would have gone unnoticed if not for the creation of the Alma Mater.

Lorado Taft, inspired by the motto, envisioned the Alma Mater as a majestic woman in scholastic robes, rising from her throne with outstretched arms, symbolically greeting her children. Behind her, two twin figures, embodying "Learning and Labor," shake hands, visually encapsulating the essence of our motto. This depiction has become ingrained in the minds of past, present, and future generations, emerging as a pivotal element in fostering school pride and loyalty.

Since its construction, the Alma Mater has been a source of immense pride for the students of the University of Illinois. A glance at a 1948 photograph captures graduates, elegantly robed, gathering around the Alma Mater. The frozen moment in their eyes speaks volumes—happiness emanates, whether from the joy of graduating or the unifying force that the Alma Mater represents. The connection they perceived brought them together through the shared journey of "Learning and Labor."

This connection went beyond mere graduation; it extended into the future. The Alma Mater became a constant presence, offering a warm embrace to returning students. Even today, graduates patiently queue to capture one final image with the Alma Mater before transitioning into alumni status, reminiscent of the ritual observed in 1948.

The current generation of students continues to carry the torch of pride for the Alma Mater. In an interview with 2013 senior Cara Mueller, her admiration for the Alma Mater is palpable. "To me, the Alma Mater is a cool piece of history. I love being a part of something so much bigger than my time here at the University of Illinois," she expresses. Cara, whose older brother attended the University, recalls frequent walks past the Alma Mater, making it a cherished landmark on campus. She admits to capturing numerous photos in front of it, especially during special events like the March Madness tournament, where the Alma Mater donned an oversized basketball outfit.

However, Cara's connection with the Alma Mater took an unexpected turn with its temporary absence in August 2012. As the statue underwent maintenance for the upcoming spring, many students were left puzzled and visitors questioned the void left by its absence. Cara reflects on this period, expressing her dismay, "It's upsetting to see that she is gone. It's like a part of the University of Illinois has been missing all year." As a senior, she feels a sense of loss, eagerly awaiting the Alma Mater's return for the traditional graduation pictures alongside family.

Beyond being a statue, the Alma Mater embodies the pride that students hold for their university. The absence of the Alma Mater, even temporarily, leaves a void that resonates with the students. To Cara, the waiting period feels like being "shafted" as a senior. Throughout the years, seniors have formed lines to capture that final snapshot with the Alma Mater, and Cara eagerly anticipates her turn, emphasizing, "It would be nice to get the traditional graduation pictures with my family next to the Alma Mater like many graduates do each year."

Even as the years unfold, the Alma Mater remains a steadfast symbol of school pride, perpetually welcoming new students. A simple motto has birthed a statue that shapes the ideals defining a university. The absence of the Alma Mater raises intriguing questions. What if she was never created? Would a different statue or even a dog occupy her place? While the future may hold the possibility of a newer and grander symbol, the enduring truth is that even when we depart her sight, the Alma Mater will patiently await our return.

As we delve deeper into the narrative of School Pride at the University of Illinois, the story of the Alma Mater is a tale etched in the arms of time, transcending generations. As we navigate the halls of learning and toil, the Alma Mater stands as a testament to the enduring values encapsulated in the motto, "Learning and Labor." In her absence, a palpable void is felt, a testament to the profound impact she has on the students of the University of Illinois. The Alma Mater's legacy, like an unwritten chapter, awaits the return of each student, a poignant reminder that our journey, guided by pride and loyalty, is forever intertwined with the welcoming arms of our Alma Mater.

Expanding our exploration, we delve into the Alma Mater's role beyond the physical realm. The Alma Mater is not merely a statue; she is a living embodiment of the University's ethos, echoing through the corridors of academia and resonating in the hearts of students. The essence of "Learning and Labor" is not confined to a sculpture but permeates the very fabric of university life, shaping the intellectual pursuits and industrious endeavors of each student.

The Alma Mater's impact extends into the realm of tradition and ritual, a cornerstone in the annual cycle of the University. The fervor surrounding the Alma Mater's temporary departure for maintenance highlights the profound emotional connection students share with this symbol. It is a connection that surpasses the physical form and delves into the emotional tapestry of every student's journey.

One might ponder, in the absence of the Alma Mater, what symbolizes the anchor of school pride? The answer lies in the collective consciousness of the University of Illinois community. The shared experiences, the traditions upheld, and the values instilled through the motto "Learning and Labor" collectively contribute to the intangible but potent essence of school pride. It is this essence that transcends the tangible presence of the Alma Mater, existing within the hearts and minds of each student.

The Alma Mater's departure becomes a poignant chapter in the ongoing narrative of school pride. As Cara Mueller laments the absence, it echoes a sentiment felt by many students during that time. The Alma Mater's year-long sabbatical is not just a hiatus for maintenance; it becomes a metaphorical journey for both the University and its students. It is a test of resilience, a challenge to uphold the values she represents even in her physical absence.

During this period, the University community is compelled to reflect on the significance of the Alma Mater in their lives. The void left by her absence serves as a canvas upon which students paint their appreciation and attachment to the symbol that has accompanied them through their academic odyssey. The collective longing for her return amplifies the impact she has on the emotional landscape of the University.

As we contemplate the potential emergence of a new symbol in the future, we are confronted with the uncertainty of change. Yet, the Alma Mater's enduring presence offers a timeless anchor amidst the ebb and flow of university life. The possibility of a new figure does not diminish the Alma Mater's legacy; instead, it adds a new chapter to the evolving story of school pride at the University of Illinois.

In the grand tapestry of university life, the Alma Mater's role is akin to a guardian spirit, silently witnessing the evolution of generations. Her outstretched arms, frozen in bronze, symbolize not only a welcoming embrace but also a timeless commitment to the values of "Learning and Labor." As students come and go, the Alma Mater stands as a sentinel, a silent testament to the enduring spirit of the University of Illinois.

In conclusion, the Alma Mater transcends the realm of a mere statue; she is a living embodiment of the University's ethos. Her absence becomes a poignant chapter in the ongoing narrative of school pride, prompting introspection and reinforcing the profound impact she has on the University community. As we anticipate her return, the Alma Mater's legacy continues to unfold, a symbol of unwavering pride and loyalty, patiently awaiting the return of each student to her timeless embrace.