Alma Mater Refresh

Refresh the Anthem. Renew the Legacy.

Our university has strong traditions that have shaped our rich history over the years. Our current alma mater has been part of that history for the past several decades creating a sense of spirit and community.

As Stockton continues to grow and thrive, we invite students, alumni, as well as current and retired faculty and staff to help reimagine that spirit for future generations!

Submission Form

Submissions are due no later than September 16, 2026!

Audio file required. Sheet music to accompany the submission is encouraged.

Talon Mascot posing as DJ

Requirements

All submissions must follow these guidelines:
 
  1. Eligibility: Open to students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
  2. Rights: The finalist will be required to assign rights to the university.

Guidelines

Please follow these guidelines for submission:
 
  1. Originality: The submission must be an original composition, not using public domain tunes or AI-generated content.
  2. Uplifting Lyrics: 1–3 verses with a chorus. A short, memorable structure is preferred.
  3. Content: Lyrics should mention the institution (name, mascot, colors) and evoke tradition, loyalty, and school pride, and reflect the school’s history and spirit.
  4. Accompaniment: Piano reduction required. Instrumental scoring preferred (strings, winds, brass, percussion).
  5. Performance Quality: Must be easy for crowds to sing.
  6. Submission Length: Does not exceed 2 minutes.
  7. Submission Format: Audio and/or sheet music.
  8. Submission Deadline: September 16, 2026.
Judging will be based on the following rubric:
 
  1. Institutional Identity and Spirit
  2. Quality and Meaning of Lyrics
  3. Musical Composition
  4. Singability & Accessibility
  5. Inclusivity & Timelessness
  6. Performance Versatility
  7. Emotional Impact
Each category will be assessed on a 4-point scale with a 28 being considered an exemplary submission.
  1. Internal Review: Starts September 17 - 23, 2026. Top 12 submissions are selected.
  2. Community Voting: Starts September 24 - October 1, 2026. Top 3 submissions are selected.
  3. Notification: On or about October 2, 2026, finalists are notified.
  4. Live Performance: October 9-11th, 2026, finalists perform live at University Weekend.

Contact Us

For questions, email alma-mater-refresh@stockton.edu 

We look forward to listening to original works that will help shape the musical traditions of our university and future Ospreys for years to come!

Soar Higher!

Alma Mater Refresh Committee 

  • Dr. Haley Baum, Assistant Vice President for Student Advocacy, Belonging and Campus Standards & Dean of Students
  • Dr. Christopher DiSanto, Associate Professor of Music
  • Lillian Nickens, Music Alumna (’25, ’26)
  • Amanda Rogers, Music Student (’27)
  • Dr. Demetrios Roubos, Information Security Officer
  • Joeseph Sramaty, Music Alumnus (’15)
  • Dr. Beverly Vaughn, Professor of Music
  • Jeffrey Wakemen, Director of Student Development
  • Michelle Wismer, Arts and Humanities Academic Program Specialist