University Police Lt. Carolyn Downey brought the idea that had been bubbling among fellow officers to interim Chief Arnold Vasquez just a few weeks ago. The officers wanted to change the standard patch worn on the shoulders of uniforms as a literal sign of support and unity one year after the Dec. 6, 2023, campus shooting.

Adding gravitas to the initiative was who designed the patch: Detective Nathaniel Drum. He is one of the two officers who confronted and killed the gunman. “Nate really embodies who we are at the department," Vasquez said. "He cares about his community. He cares about UNLV. He cares about the staff, the students, and faculty here.” 

Drum also designed the standard patch the department has worn for the past several years. For the memorial patch, he changed the colors to UNLV’s scarlet and gray and incorporated the date of the shooting and “#UNLVStrong.” 

As Downey, who’s in charge of department uniforms, got to work, the idea expanded. The department will wear the UNLV Strong patch every year throughout the month of December.

At other times, special patches will recognize department initiatives such as Domestic Violence Awareness month, reinforcing UPD’s role in creating safe and inclusive environments at UNLV and other Nevada System for Higher Education.

NSHE Chancellor Patricia Charlton noted, “Through these efforts, University Police Services highlights the power of remembrance and the importance of awareness,” she said, “ensuring that our campuses remain supportive and connected places for all.”

Watch the video to hear more about how Vasquez hopes the patch serves as an icebreaker for conversations with officers.

“This is our way to say that we’re part of this campus community. There’s a person behind this badge, and we are committed to the future safety of our campus.”