HSU Students’ Song Celebrates ‘Daughter of the West’

What began as a Sunday afternoon songwriting session before an All-School Sing audition has become a beloved anthem that captures Hardin-Simmons University’s identity.

Jackson Dyer, a senior worship leadership major from Granbury, wrote “Daughter of the West” in a single afternoon. The song takes its name from the university’s nickname in the official alma mater, but its resonance comes from the way it weaves HSU’s traditions, community, and faith-filled culture into music.

“I knew I wanted this song to be reminiscent of narrative songs from early folk and classic country,” Dyer said. “The nickname of our school, found in the university anthem, was the perfect personification — clever, fun, and full of meaning.”

Years of participation in concert choir and chorale under Dr. Romines gave him a lyrical foundation. Phrases like “Daughter of the West” and “the famous halls” became natural anchors for a story that celebrates life on the Forty Acres. Scenes from late-night study sessions, intramurals, and picnics on Anderson Lawn found their way into verses, giving the song an authenticity only a student voice could capture.

Dyer said the inspiration wasn’t only musical, but deeply tied to HSU’s culture.

“I would honestly say that the support of my creative passions in the College of Arts and Media encouraged me to create this song,” he said. “Faculty have always given me creative freedom while grounding my work in theological and purposeful foundations.”

For him, the “West” imagery symbolizes both personal growth and the university’s mission.

“To me, the West signifies a frontier of freedom and wide-open possibility,” Dyer said. “College has been that frontier for me — helping me trust God in the wilderness and hold onto my faith-based roots.”

Since its debut, the song has struck a chord with students, faculty, and alumni. Many hear in it not just nostalgia for their own HSU experience, but also hope for the future.

“I find it such a kind reward from God that people have connected with this song and found it uplifting,” Dyer said. “I want it to serve as a glimpse of hope to the struggling freshman or weary senior.”

The song also connects generations. From All-School Sing to Big Country Hymn Sing, from Pancake Study Break to campus Christmas traditions, “Daughter of the West” echoes what makes HSU more than classrooms and buildings.

“Calling the school the ‘Daughter of the West’ gives personality and warmth,” Dyer said. “It symbolizes a living legacy.”

For Dyer, that legacy is clear: HSU is not just a place of academic preparation but a community shaping creativity, faith, and purpose.

“I’ve seen all of my friends grow richly because of this place, this Daughter of the West,” he said. “This song is my way of saying thank you — and reminding others that everything we do here matters.”