LAS VEGAS, Nevada – The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is preparing to reopen Beam Hall, where a tragic shooting occurred last year, with enhanced security measures for the upcoming fall semester. The decision comes after University President Keith Whitfield’s announcement on Tuesday, detailing the reopening of the building on August 26th. This marks the first time Beam Hall will welcome students and faculty since the unfortunate events of December 6, 2023.
Whitfield revealed that the heightened security measures at the building will include restricted access to certain floors, a security guard stationed in the atrium, and additional security cameras to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. The university has also secured $2.6 million in funding from the state to bolster security staff at colleges across Southern Nevada, including UNLV. This funding will support the presence of private security staff on campus until the end of the year.
The shooting incident last year led to the tragic loss of three professors, with a visiting professor sustaining serious injuries and the gunman ending his own life. During the chaos that ensued, the university issued an active-shooter alert, prompting staff and students to seek safety measures before law enforcement intervened and neutralized the attacker.
Identified as Anthony Polito, a 67-year-old Henderson resident and former professor, the gunman had a history of unsuccessful attempts to secure a position at UNLV. Metro Police confirmed his identity and reported that UNLV Police were responsible for his demise during a shootout on campus. In response to the tragedy, UNLV established the Rebel Recovery Program, focusing on student wellness services and organizing special events to aid in the healing process.
The university plans to address ongoing security concerns and provide updates on the Rebel Recovery Program during an all-hands staff meeting scheduled for April 15. Meanwhile, access to Beam Hall this semester is restricted to faculty members with offices in the building and students accompanied by them, with classes relocated to alternate locations for the spring semester.
Beam Hall, a significant academic building housing the Lee School of Business, language department, and various faculty offices and classrooms, plays a vital role in the UNLV campus community. As preparations continue for the reopening in the fall, the university remains committed to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all those who will soon return to the halls of learning.