On January 27, 1957, the statue representing the University of the East as its nurturing alma mater was officially revealed. Crafted by National Artist Guillermo Tolentino, the bronze statue was initially positioned in front of the Dalupan Building (now the Santiago F. Dela Cruz Building), facing Azcarraga Street (now Claro M. Recto Avenue). The unveiling ceremony was led by then First Lady Luz B. Magsaysay, accompanied by members of the UE Administration, spearheaded by UE President Francisco T. Dalupan Sr., and representatives from the UE Alumni Association. Notably, Ms. Ofelia S. Salas, whose image served as the inspiration for the statue, was among those present.

Today, the UE Alma Mater statue, affectionately known as "Lualhati," stands as the enduring symbol of the University. As UE Alumnus Arsenio D. Narciso aptly expressed, it acts as a "spiritual force among the alumni," potentially igniting a more profound sense of affection for their beloved alma mater.