Dear University Community,

Today, we gathered on the UNLV campus to remember and celebrate the memories of our cherished colleagues – Dr. Jerry Cha-Jan Chang, Dr. Naoko Takemaru, and Dr. Patricia Navarro Velez. The gathering came one year to the day after we faced an unimaginable tragedy on our campus. A day in which the lives of these three remarkable individuals were taken from us and our university community was forever changed.

As we reflect on their rich and enduring legacies, let’s remember the joy they brought to so many of us and their remarkable contributions as mentors, teachers, colleagues, and friends.

During today’s remembrance ceremony, we also experienced the healing power of the arts and acknowledged the resilience and spirit of the UNLV Family – and highlighted the actions of so many who have proven what it means to be UNLV Strong. If you weren't able to make it today but would like to view the ceremony, a recording of the livestream (courtesy of Clark County Television) is available on our UNLV Strong website.

I continue to think about the brave actions of those who rushed to our aid on that horrible day – first responders, mental health professionals, and the community at large. I am also grateful for the members of our university community – staff, faculty, and students – who have supported each other and provided the resources and space needed to heal over the past year. I think of the words shared by survivor Dr. Daraboth Rith, whose story of strength, resilience, and recovery motivates us all. Bot’s story is one of how – even in our darkest moments – we came together as a community to lift each other when we needed it most.

I’m reminded that there’s great power in unity, which was displayed in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy and throughout the year as an outpouring of support came from all corners of Nevada and nationwide. This includes the many actions and messages of concern and empathy from colleagues, including from throughout the Nevada System of Higher Education, from our elected leaders, from agency partners throughout our state, and from a number of colleges and universities across the country.

To everyone who has contributed to our recovery and healing throughout the past year, I say thank you. The road to recovery remains ongoing, of that I am certain. But we continue to be guided by principles of inclusivity and compassion, and driven by the notion that the safety, security, and well-being of the UNLV family – our employees and students – are our priority.

I’ve shared this before, but I truly believe that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. We’ve grieved a lot this past year. Sorrow is a healthy part of healing. But with each day that passes, we move forward – albeit sometimes slowly. In our sadness we find strength. And through shared experiences, even painful ones, we’ve grown closer together as colleagues and as a university community. For those who need someone to talk to, today or at any point in the future, I urge you to please utilize our mental health and wellness resources, or talk to a friend or colleague.

May we continue to honor the memories of professors Chang, Navarro Velez, and Takemaru each day by striving to make our university a place where every voice is heard, every individual is valued, and every challenge is met with courage. Together, we will forge a path that ensures the light of their lives continues to shine brightly in our hearts.

Warm Regards,

Keith E. Whitfield, Ph.D.
President