By JACKELIN GOMEZ
Where did the Alma Mater originate?
Does the name Anna Hong sound familiar to you? Anna Hong was a part of El Diamante’s very first graduating class, the Class of 2006. Anna Hong actually wrote the lyrics to the Alma Mater during her freshman year. The music to the Alma Mater was composed by 2005 Fresno State Band Director, Gary Gilroy. The Alma Mater is now performed by the El Diamante Band at rallies and Miner football games.
So what does the Alma Mater mean?
“The Alma Mater is a proclamation of our school. I am proud to be the principal of El Diamante; I definitely bleed blue green,” stated Principal Nelson.
So why was the Alma Mater brought back after all these years?
You may have noticed the resurgence of the Alma Mater over the last couple of years. We sing it a lot more often and even practice learning it at the beginning of the year in the gym with El Diamante Choir teacher, Mr. Witt’s help.
The Alma Mater was actually brought back to “increase school spirit and pride.” And it’s worked, football games and rallies are more spirited than ever,” exclaimed Principal Nelson.