I was in BEH on the second floor at the time of the shooting. I want to recognize [Graduate Assistant] Jackson Scott. I was in his class at the time. Although it is impossible to feel safe in that situation, I knew he would do anything for us if he needed to. He is so brave. He was watching the door the whole time ready to do what he needed if the shooter came in. I have always thought since the day of the shooting, I would not have wanted to go through it with any other professor. He kept me calm and did everything he could to be there for us. 

— Caitlyn Emerson, Student

I was in BEH attending COM 101 when the shooting happened. [Graduate Assistant] Jackson Scott was very quick to react to what was happening, and the fact that he remained calm and collected in the face of danger helped us stay calm. He showed clear concern for all of us, and judging by the look on his face, I have no doubt that he would've given anything to protect us, despite not being much older than we are. Mr. Scott is a great man, and he made a terrible experience a bit more bearable.

— Enrique Gomez, Student

My class was on the second floor of BEH during the shooting on December 6. [Graduate Assistant] Jackson Scott went into the hallway to investigate the alarm when we quickly learned about the active shooter. Despite all the chaos, Scott acted efficiently. While everyone ran to the back of the classroom, Scott ran back to the hallway to close our door and lock it, announcing aloud that our door was locked to reassure students. All of us huddled together in the dark classroom, only lit by the still-on projector showing a bright blue screen. Although his computer was in direct eye-sight of the window in our door, Scott crawled on his hands and knees to bravely turn off the projector, ensuring our room was completely dark.

Even though he was overwhelmed with his own emotion, the first thing Scott did as soon as our class reached safety was offer us water from his personal bottle. I appreciate everything he did for us that day. Scott reached out to us on Canvas to reply if we made it home safely. He reached out once more 24 hours after the shooting expressing his gratitude for our class taking care of each other. He stated that our class will always remain in his thoughts. I want him to know that he remains in our thoughts as well. Thank you for a wonderful semester.

— Caylee Chavez, Student

Since the Dec. 6 tragedy, the Rebel community has experienced kindness, support, and encouragement from so many. During the month of February, UNLV Today will share daily stories of gratitude with you.

Visit UNLV Strong to read more stories or tell us about the people who helped or inspired you.