As UNLV nears the one-year mark of the Dec. 6 campus shooting, a project to honor the lives lost and the resilience of those affected is coming to fruition at the heart of campus.
On Nov. 26 and 27, UNLV will install a series of murals on the pillars at the entrance to Frank and Estella Beam Hall to transform the experience of entering the space.
The Faculty Senate’s December 6 Memorial Committee invited students, faculty, and alumni to submit their digital art. Six designs were chosen, and each tells a story, embodying themes of healing, memory, and unity, intended to honor lives lost and to celebrate the enduring spirit of our community.
“This installation allows us to honor our shared history in a way that words alone cannot,” said Sarah Quigley, memorial art subcommittee chair and director of Special Collections and Archives. “It’s a visual expression of remembrance that speaks to the heart of our community.”
Submissions for the mural project began earlier this semester and were evaluated based on how well they honored the victims, reflected themes of healing and remembrance, and supported recovery. The focus was on transforming the Beam Hall entrance into a more positive, hopeful space. After careful review, the subcommittee selected six submissions, which were approved by President Keith E. Whitfield.
To provide deeper insight into the artwork and those being honored, a QR code will accompany the installation.
“This project has truly been a collaborative effort,” said Deborah Bergin, memorial art subcommittee member and director of planning and facility partnerships. “Bringing together these meaningful designs and seeing them take shape on campus has been a profound experience, one that reflects our community’s resilience and dedication to honoring those we’ve lost.”
The murals will remain on the building for at least a year. Meanwhile, the Faculty Senate Memorial Committee is continuing its work to develop a permanent tribute. The committee has met with a design team and hosted sessions to gather feedback for a future memorial healing garden.
About the Murals
To learn more about the individuals being honored and to read the full artists statements, visit the UNLV Strong website.
Haide Calle and Anjelo Vigilia, Undergraduate Art Majors
“UNLV Strong” depicts the still life of three individuals — professors Patricia Navarro Velez, Naoko Takemaru, and Jerry Cha-Jan Chang — sharing tea, symbolizing their unity and personal connections. Elements of the artwork include personal items — a fishing rod for Chang, a microphone for Navarro Velez, and a book for Takemaru — that reflect their unique traits and passions. Surrounded by flowers symbolizing healing, the piece honors their memory while inspiring comfort and growth in the UNLV community.
Kennedy Jackson, Undergraduate Theatre Arts Major
“The Hummingbird” symbolizes resilience and unity, inspired by the artist’s sighting of a hummingbird near Beam Hall on the day of the shooting. The piece weaves elements like hearts, strings of yellow and peach, and groups of three to honor the professors lost, while reflecting the love, support, and connection within the UNLV community.
Rose Jiang, Undergraduate Biology Major
“Ganbatte” is a tribute to Naoko Takemaru, a beloved professor of Japanese studies in the Department of World Languages and Cultures. The work symbolizes her encouragement as a sensei, achievements as an author, and passions for music and teaching. Featuring a grand piano, paper cranes, and a red sun, the piece reflects her enduring impact on students and her dedication to fostering hope and peace.
Jung Min, Visiting Assistant Professor of Art
“Moment of Silence” honors the memory of Jerry Cha-Jan Chang and Naoko Takemaru through a powerful illustration of grief and hope. A young girl holding a chrysanthemum, surrounded by a dark cloud transforming into ascending birds, symbolizes loss, remembrance, and the collective journey toward healing within the UNLV community.
Hopena Ross, Undergraduate Biochemistry Major
Camille Sweeney-Carter, Undergraduate Art Major
This piece reflects the cultural backgrounds, unity, and lasting impact of Jerry Cha-Jan Chang, Patricia Navarro Velez, and Naoko Takemaru, symbolized by flags, softly clasped hands, and the warmth of orange. A central burning candle honors their memory, representing hope, remembrance, and the enduring light they brought to the UNLV community.
