George Washington University (GW) is more than just a distinguished academic institution nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C.; it’s a vibrant community pulsating with traditions that echo through its historic campus. Among these cherished customs, the fight song stands out as a powerful anthem, igniting school spirit and uniting Revolutionaries across generations.
| Location: | Washington, DC 20052 |
|---|---|
| Founded: | 1821 |
| Enrollment: | 27,000 |
| Colors: | Buff & Blue |
| Nickname: | Revolutionaries |
The spirited sounds of “The GW Fight Song” are integral to the GW experience. This isn’t just any tune; it’s the sonic embodiment of GW pride, a rallying cry that resonates during every athletic contest and university gathering. The history of this Fight With Song is as interesting as the melody itself. Originally, in 1924, Eugene Sweeney penned Buff and Blue for the GW Football Team. As times changed and GW’s athletic programs broadened, Patrick M. Jones reimagined and rewrote the song in the 1990s, aptly renaming it “The GW Fight Song” to ensure its universal appeal across all GW sporting events. Today, the fight song is a constant presence, not only reverberating through the Charles E. Smith Center during games but also chiming from the carillon twice daily at 12:15 PM and 6 PM, a melodic reminder of GW spirit woven into the fabric of campus life.
The lyrics themselves are a potent declaration of loyalty and pride. “Hail to the Buff, Hail to the Blue!” the song proclaims, celebrating GW’s distinctive colors, buff and blue, chosen to honor George Washington’s uniform. The spirited lines, “All our lives we’ll be proud to say, We hail from GW!” and “We’re GW, here to show the way,” encapsulate the enduring connection alumni and students feel to the university. The resounding “Fight!” at the song’s climax is more than just a word; it’s an injection of energy, a call to action that embodies the competitive spirit of the Revolutionaries.
While the fight song fuels athletic fervor, the GW Alma Mater offers a more reflective and reverent tribute to the university. Originally written in 1930 and rewritten in 1970, the Alma Mater, with its lines like “Hail Alma Mater To thy spirit guiding,” speaks to the enduring values of knowledge, fidelity, and the guiding spirit of George Washington himself. It is a staple at significant university milestones, from Convocation to Commencement, and adds a layer of tradition to home basketball games.
The visual symbols of GW – the buff and blue colors and the mascot, George – further amplify this sense of identity. Adopted in 1904 when Columbian College officially became George Washington University, buff and blue are not merely colors; they are a visual homage to the nation’s first president. George, the mascot, embodies this historical connection, acting as the embodiment of GW spirit at athletic events, community gatherings, and campus celebrations.
In conclusion, the traditions of George Washington University, particularly its fight song, Alma Mater, colors, and mascot, are not just quaint customs; they are the living heartbeat of the institution. They foster a strong sense of community, pride, and shared identity among students, alumni, and faculty, ensuring that the spirit of GW resonates far beyond the campus grounds. These traditions, especially the resounding fight with song, are what truly make being a GW Revolutionary a unique and spirited experience.
