The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) proudly participated in the National Night Out event in October. This is an annual nationwide event that fosters police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Held on the first Tuesday of October, National Night Out has become a staple for UHPD — an event they host year after year to strengthen relationships with the campus community.
“It’s just to let them know that we are here to support them and all the endeavors of higher education here on campus,” said Crime Prevention Officer Amir Watkins, explaining UHPD’s ongoing commitment to the event.
This year’s celebration featured a lively atmosphere with music from a DJ and giveaways from community partners including Family Dollar, 93Q Country, and 97.9 The Box. Students enjoyed a variety of activities, from shooting hoops on an inflatable basketball goal to playing giant Connect Four and testing their strength on the classic high striker carnival game.
To keep energy levels high, attendees were treated to free tacos, pizza, chips, and
snow cones.
Among the crowd were seniors Fatoumata Traore and Jenny, who enjoyed playing Connect
Four and chatting with UHPD officers.
“We were cracking jokes with each other and talking about the event,” said Traore, a business major on her interactions with UHPD.
Jenny, a finance major, shared that interacting with officers in a relaxed setting
helped build trust.
“They’re just like regular people,” she said.
Creating opportunities for students to see officers as approachable and relatable is a key reason UHPD continues to host National Night Out.
“We like to have fun, but we are here to protect them,” said Watkins. “It’s great that they can see us in a different light and a different atmosphere.”
Freshman Hilary Samo Ekoudi, a pre-nursing major, attended her first National Night Out and described it as an amazing experience.
“I’m meeting new people and talking to new people,” she said. “I feel like this event is a way we can connect with others.”
Ekoudi also appreciated the chance to engage with UHPD officers.
“They’re actually cooler than we think,” said Ekoudi.