Alma Mater Statue at Columbia University - New York City

The Alma Mater statue is one of the most famous campus sculptures in the United States, and it’s the central symbolic figure of Columbia University.

This is a large bronze seated female figure created by sculptor Daniel Chester French, a noted American sculptor, who created, among many other famous works, the seated Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial in DC. Alma Mater was installed in 1903 on the steps of Low Memorial Library at Columbia’s Morningside Heights campus in Manhattan.

The statue depicts a regal woman seated on a throne. She wears an academic robe and laurel wreath. In her right hand is a scepter topped with wheat and a tiny crown, a symbol of Columbia University. In her let hand is a book, representing learning. The throne arms are shaped like lamps, symbolizing knowledge. A small owl is hidden in her robes, symbolizing wisdom. 

“Alma Mater” literally means “nourishing mother.” The concept comes from a long tradition dating back to European universities that the university “nurtures” students intellectually and morally.

At Columbia University specifically, Alma Mater functions as the personification of the University, a symbol of wisdom, welcome, and institutional identity, and a ceremonial “guardian” of the campus.