UNLV Community Honors Three Professors Lost in Tragic Shooting

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – One week has passed since the devastating shooting incident at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). In a heartfelt show of solidarity, the campus community, along with state and city leaders, gathered on Wednesday to pay tribute to the three esteemed professors who tragically lost their lives.

The commemorative event, held on the UNLV campus, was dedicated to honoring the memories of Dr. Jerry Cha-Jan Chang and Dr. Patricia Navarro Velez from the Lee Business School, as well as Dr. Naoko Takemaru from the College of Liberal Arts.

During the moving ceremony, numerous individuals shared heartfelt stories and anecdotes about the three beloved educators, offering glimpses into their remarkable lives and the impact they had on those around them.

One student, Jacquelyn Rivera, expressed her admiration for the professors, stating, “Each of the professors demonstrated unwavering dedication to their roles, providing students with invaluable opportunities to succeed in their respective fields of study.”

The campus was adorned with heartfelt tributes, as attendees left flowers, lit candles, and penned poignant messages at the memorials scattered throughout the grounds.

Former UNLV student Ricardo Rodriguez, overwhelmed with emotion, said, “Although the pain is indescribable, we must strive to live our dreams, just as our departed professors would have wanted. As we move forward, we hope to reunite with them in a better place.”

The ceremony featured several speakers, including UNLV President Keith Whitfield and colleagues of the fallen professors, who shared their memories and reflections.

Additionally, it was revealed that a fourth professor had also been shot during the incident. This unnamed 38-year-old man, who was visiting the campus on the day of the tragedy, is currently recovering in a hospital.