Dozens of former students submitted the memorable tales, important events and unforgettable moments that made their time at LSU, to use their word, "magical." Click here to preview a sample of stories from the book.

From friendships forged in residence halls to the life lessons learned in classrooms, The Spirit of LSU reveals the experiences that shaped students' time on campus and presents them in their own words. Bursting with Tiger pride from cover to cover, this is the story of those who will be "Forever LSU."

"We had an overwhelming response from LSU alumni who submitted stories and photos for The Spirit of LSU: Tiger Memories," said Charlie Roberts, President and CEO of the LSU Alumni Association. "It's impossible to fully describe the compassion and pride felt among the LSU family, but this book comes awfully close. Everyone remembers LSU as a place where they belonged, united by their passion for the purple and gold."

In The Spirit of LSU, alumni recount the people who played important roles in their lives--including roommates, best friends and future spouses, along with the professors and mentors who shaped their futures. Some pay tribute to university legends like Governor Huey Long, affectionately known as the Kingfish, while others remember lesser known heroes like Mary Jo Monsour, the student who convinced the school to recognize Mardi Gras as a holiday in 1955.

Of course, the book features plenty of recollections that revolve around the LSU Tigers--like tailgating traditions and tales of couples who planned their weddings and rearranged their honeymoons around Tiger games! There's even a featured look at the "Big Games" in LSU history, from the 1959 Sugar Bowl, when LSU won the National Championship, right up to the unforgettable 2008 BCS National Championship game, when LSU walloped Ohio State.

As alumni look back to share their personal stories in The Spirit of LSU, the history of LSU itself is revealed. Former students recall the days when women weren't allowed to wear pants and just nine African American students were enrolled--by court order. The modern day renaissance of the men's basketball team is marked by a cheerleader who supported them in Madison Square Garden. And a hilarious timeline celebrates the university's most important moments, including Governor Long's declaration of LSU as "the greatest school in the universe."

In addition to page after page of memories and anecdotes, The Spirit of LSU is also filled with over a dozen fold-outs and letters, along with timelines, profiles and countless photographs. Revisit your favorite hangouts, like Louie's Cafe and the Caterie, and learn the history behind the Bengal Belles and the Chinese Bandits. You'll even get to know all six cats who've taken their turn as "Mike the Tiger."

LSU alumni have proven the university isn't just an institution; it's a state of mind, and the traditions hold true for graduates from the 1950s to today. The Spirit of LSU: Tiger Memories preserves these traditions and memories. In equal turns hilarious, historical and poignant, it's an essential volume for anyone who bleeds purple and gold. Click here to order now. Check out our blog to read other great alumni stories!