Forward Ever: Birmingham-Southern Sings (BSC Logo)

Forward Ever: Birmingham-Southern Sings

On May 24, 2024, Birmingham-Southern College graduated its final class of seniors; the college officially ceased operations one week later, on Friday, May 31, concluding the 168-year history of a beloved institution.

In the days before the school's closing, the Southern Music Research Center invited members of the Birmingham-Southern community to record themselves singing the BSC alma mater for preservation in our archive. The recordings reflect the spirit of a proud and resilient community and provide an audio snapshot of an historic moment.

Also included in this collection are musical selections from the school closing ceremony (May 23, 2024) and the Class of 2024 commencement exercises (May 24, 2024).

To the class of 2024, the SMRC extends its heartiest congratulations. While we join the BSC community in mourning the loss of an important and influential institution, we are grateful for the powerful ripples the BSC family will continue to send into the world for many years to come.

Thanks to all who leant their voices to this project. Any members of the BSC community -- including students, alums, faculty, staff, and administration -- who would like to participate are invited to send their own recordings to almamater@southernmusicresearch.org.

Birmingham-Southern College Alma Mater

On the city’s western border,
Reared against the sky,
Proudly stands our alma mater
As the years go by.

“Forward ever!”
Be our watchword;
Conquer and prevail.
Hail to three our alma mater,
BSC, all hail!

Cherished by us all forever,
Alma mater strong,
Hold our faithful hearts and minds
As we sing this song.

“Forward ever!”
Be our watchword;
Conquer and prevail.
Hail to three our alma mater,
BSC, all hail!