The Conferral Ceremony of Academic Laurels And Palms 2013 by Assumption University

ACADEMIC LAURELS AND PALMS

2013

Assumption University of Thailand

“Those who who have have “Those sacrificed their their lives lives sacrificed and time time by by and their creative loyalty loyalty heir creative and positive positive and contributions to to the the contributions institution must must be be institution recognized, promoted promoted recognized, and rewarded.” rewarded.” and

Rev. Bro. Prathip Martin Komolmas Rev.Bro.Martin Prathip Komolmas President Emeritus of Assumption University President Emeritus

Conferral Ceremony of Academic Laurels and Palms for Assumption University Senior Administrators and Lecturers April 26, 2013 at THE Grand Salon, St. Raphaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall Assumption University, Suvarnabhumi Campus

Today, Assumption University takes great pleasure in honoring our Senior Lecturers who have rendered services for over 25 years, through “Academic Laurels and Palms.”

There are two expressions mentioning from the name of the award “Academic Laurels and Palms.” Laurel: “The Laurel” is a Mediterranean tree (Laurus Nobilis) having aromatic, simple leaves, and small blackish berries. A wreath of laurel was conferred as a mark of honor in ancient times upon poets, heroes, and victors in athletic contests. It is, therefore, used to signify or symbolize the honor and glory that is won for great achievements. Palm: The Order of Academic Palms (Ordre des Palmes Académiques) is an Order of Chivalry of France for academics and cultural and educational figures. It is one of the world’s oldest civil orders. Created by Napoleon in 1808, the award is traditionally given to French educators who have made a major contribution to French national education and those outside France who have made a significant contribution to the expansion of French culture.

In ancient Greece, wreaths were awarded to victors, both in athletic competitions, including the Olympics, and were made of wild olive-tree known as “Kotinos.” In Rome, they were symbols of martial victory, crowning a successful commander during his triumph. Their origin can be traced to Greek Mythology. Their history and evolution continued during the times of the Greek and Roman Empires, and finally to their place in the modern day. “Academic Laurels and Palms,” at AU is an award conferred by the University signifying the honor and glory won for great achievement. This of award of achievement is in the form of a decoration, a medal specially designed for the occasion.

The same philosophical underpinnings as used for the AU Awards for Excellence have been applied, that is, “Those who have sacrificed their lives and time by their creative loyalty and positive contributions to the instruction of students must be recognized, promoted and rewarded” (Faculty and Staff Development Policies, July 22, 1993). Three of the greatest gifts for a person are Life, Love, and Time. These are non-material gifts that anyone can give. The twelve heroes of the day, because of their love for Assumption University, have spent their lives and time educating students. They have shared generously with those who came into contact with them.

you have made to the university through your work and tireless efforts of service to help us achieve our present stature in the world of tertiary education in the Kingdom of Thailand and in the world at large.

Dear Recipients of the Assumption University Academic Palms and Laurels: Today is indeed one of the most beautiful and meaningful days in the history of Assumption University. It is the day on which we recognize and honor each of you for the insurmountable contributions

I am indeed gratified that the university has decorated you with the distinctive mark of recognition which in my estimate ranks even higher than comparable awards made elsewhere each year. My enduring hope is that the Academic Palms and Laurels you receive will entrench in you deep satisfaction and relishing hope that your efforts of teaching and academic service do not remain obscure, but stand out in the lights of the other glories that the world is blessed with. My sincere thanks and prayers for your well being will remain assuredly for each of you.

Rev. Bro. Prathip Martin Komolmas President Emeritus of Assumption University

I sincerely hope that the Academic Laurels and Palms you receive will help to augment the many selfless efforts you all have put in for the students primarily and for each other in general. The good that we do in this life, is best rewarded, it is said in the next life. Today, as we recognize, thank and decorate each of you, please believe that we do so in the inalienable conviction that you all have served to make our university and its community unique, day by day. Congratulations for the achievements you have made in the many years you have served at Assumption University, either as administrator or lecturer. The university remains indebted to the contributions made by you as we endeavor to reach more milestones of achievements.

I thank each and every one of you individually and encourage you to wear your decorations with pride, and to remember that you contributed to Assumption University for the future which will unfold, braver and better through your contributions. May God bless you all.

Rev. Bro. Bancha Saenghiran, f.s.g., Ph.D. The Rector Magnificus of Assumption University

Rev. Bro. Anupatt Petchara-Yuttachai The Great Professor of the Order of St. Gabriel at Assumption University of Thailand

In the winter of 1939, responding to a call from God, the nine-year old Claude Petiteau wrote down his commitment to join the Montfortian Brothers of St. Gabriel and to travel overseas to teach in any of their schools. In 1953 with some experience as a teacher, he moved to London where he taught for three years.

Brother Simeon was appointed to his positions as Vice President for Financial Affairs and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Finance and Banking. He lectures in the Department of Finance and Banking presently as Senior Lecturer. Rev. Brother Simeon is a consummate and dedicated teacher. Through the many years of his encountering the youth of the world and here in Thailand, he has exuded self-discipline in preparing his lectures, his innovative assignments, projects and training for the students.

Rev. Brother Simeon, at the request of his superiors, arrived in Thailand on January 3, 1957 to begin his mission as a teacher in various primary and secondary schools of the Gabrielite Brothers. He also founded a few institutions at secondary level. Intermittently Rev. Brother Simeon was educated in the Philippines (1969-1972 and 1987-1989) and in the USA at Santa Clara University, California (1976-1977) respectively. Even while he attended degree programs as a student, Rev. Brother Simeon lectured in Finance courses in the Philippines and at California.

More significant however, is the fact that Rev. Brother Simeon has kept faithful to his religious vows by balancing his teaching and administrative careers with two golden religious practices. The first of these is prayer. Rev. Brother Simeon spends at least two hours every day in prayer and in contemplation. The second practice is to wear the Crucifix of Christ on the lapel of his shirt or coat. “I point out to my students, that the cross symbolizes my belief in someone, someone who never fails me. I therefore love the one, Jesus who never fails me.”The internalization of Christ-centered values, and the externalization of religious credo, to Rev. Brother Simeon, is representative of the personal background and education that he has received. Furthermore, “it also means asking, what shall we do with our lives? Our actions in life will be guaranteed of success, for success is not a destiny, it is a way of living. It also means being fulfilled in what I have done. Looking back, my life has a meaning.”

Rev. Brother Simeon’s first assignment to the newly established Assumption Business Administration College was in 1972, where he arrived to teach Accounting and Marketing. In the subsequent years of his teaching at ABAC, Rev. Brother Simeon taught courses in General Management. In 1978 following his return from the USA, Rev. Brother Simeon was appointed as the first-ever Chairperson of the newly created Department of Finance and Banking. Between the years 1979 and 1987, Rev. Brother Simeon served as Vice President for Academic Affairs at ABAC, concurrently teaching courses with Finance specialization ranging from Corporate Finance to Financial Management. In 1994 Rev.

I therefore love the one, Jesus who never fails me.

Asst. Prof. Amornlugsana Thanasinsupaya MARTIN DE TOURS SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS - MATHEMATICS Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics, Martin de Tours School of Management and Economics

“If you want something done right you have to do it yourself”

From her point of view, Asst. Prof. Amornlugsana Thanasinsupaya believes both her intelligence and diligence could surely drive her on the right road toward the goal. She is a very honest and kind-hearted teacher who is willing to take up responsibilities. The determination in carrying out the work and her hard-working attitudes also gave a deep impression to both her colleagues and students. She graduated in B.Ed. (Mathematics) from Chulalongkorn University in 1973. Later on she completed her M.S. (Applied Statistics) in 1991 from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA). She is a full-time lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at Assumption University since July 2, 1973. She has served as a teacher for more than 40 years and has taught several subjects in the field of Statistics and Mathematics for the undergraduate students such as Business Statistics I & II, Calculus I & II and that of Quantitative Analysis for the graduate students.

Besides her work as a teacher, she had also written Business Statistics I as a text book in English. This book was mainly emphasized on definitions, examples and challenging exercises being included so that it was suitable for the students who need to practice and acquire more experiences in statistical analysis of data. Her outstanding book was approved by the Ministry of University Affairs (MUA) in 1989, so she was appointed the academic title to be “Assistant Professor in Statistics”. Moreover, she really appreciated to receive the “St. John Baptist De La Salle Award For Commendable Service in year 2009”as well. Her favorite quotation is “If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself”. This quotation means “Don’t trust other people to do important things for you. You have to do things yourself to control the quality of the results.”

DR. CHAVALIT MEENNUCH ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRS Vice Rector for Administrative Affairs

Dr. Chavalit Meennuch joined ABAC on June 9, 1975 and over the past 38 years has served with deep loyalty and staunch belief in this institution as he worked in the Top Management team to build what began as Assumption Business Administration College (1969) to Assumption University (1990) to its present scope, as Thailand’s leading Private University and prestigious International provider of tertiary level education. The University’s ascendency in reputation and status has paralleled Chavalit Meennuch’s evolution as academic and administrator leader in Thailand. His tertiary level education began at Ramkhamhaeng University from where he obtained a bachelor degree in Thai Laws. Subsequently, receiving Assumption University’s Faculty Development Scholarships, he achieved a master degree from Pittsburg State University, Kansas in 1987 and a doctor of philosophy degree in Public Administration in 1991. His later academic training consists of post doctoral studies and executive training at the Universities of Oxford and Warwick respectively. From having initially carried the portfolios of University Personnel manager, Registrar, Director of Administrative services, Chavalit Meennuch was promoted as University Vice President for Administrative Affairs in 1992 and has since then sustained his services to the University as its Council Secretary and institutional representative to the Royal Thai Commission on Higher Education’s academic and administrative committees. Additionally he has been appointed as University Council member in several of Thai state and Private Universities. Dr. Chavalit Meennuch has distinguished himself as a

unique Academic and Administrator serving in a wide range of Assumption University committees overseeing administrative and academic processes while at the same time, maintaining his love of teaching within Assumption University and in state and private Universities in the fields of management, public administration and government studies. He was in 2007 drafted into national service as senator, a role he played till 2011. His other memorable contributions have included conference Keynote addresses and speaker roles in both public and private institutions for which he has been awarded Royal decorations, prizes and tokens of appreciation, encapsulating a life of academic services and contributions and moving the scope of Thailand’s education towards competitive international standards. His publications in both Thai and international academic journals and newspapers cover topics of loyalty to the Thai Royalty while also addressing the need for change in Thai administrative civic codes and governances. Known for his gusty passion for value added activities in institutional building, Dr. Chavalit has served two Assumption University Presidents in building this institution into its present form and shape while recognizing that he and his family, including his only son who currently teaches in the Martin Del Rosario School of Architecture at Assumption University, have received great benefits and inspiration from this abode of abiding knowledge. While institutional and Gabrielite education will look at Chavalit Meennuch as one who embodies the white of Buddhistic devotion, the blue of true love for the Monarchy and the red, as deep patriotic love for Thailand.

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mr.Pansiri Chantokul

“Be Happy With Your Work”

ARTS - GENERAL EDUCATION Senior Lecturer, Department of General Education, Faculty of Arts

Mr. Pansiri Chantokul was born in Ayutthaya, married to Mrs. Sunee Chantokul (the former ABAC English Instructor during 1977-1985) and has a daughter (Mrs. Donyawan Yotviriyapanit who is an ABAC Instructor in the Department of Marketing). When he was young, he liked playing sports. Then after finishing high school he decided to study at Srinakarinwirote University and got the Bachelor of Education majoring in Physical Education in 1975. His Master of Education majoring in Physical Education is from Chulalongkorn University in 1981. Moreover, he also earned certificates concerning sports coach and referee, from the National Sports Association, and International Tennis Referee Certificate from the International Tennis Federation held in Kualalumpur, Malaysia in 1993.

important tournaments that he officiated at included the Davis Cup group I and II, the Federation Cup group I and II of Asia Oceania Zone, the thirteenth SEA Games and the thirteenth Asian Games and he quit for referee duty in 2001. For more than 37 years of dedicated and distinguished service to the Assumption University, he received four Royal Orders and Decorations; they were the fifth class of The Crown of Thailand, the fifth class of the White Elephant, the fifth class of Direkgunabhorn and the fourth class of Direkgunabhorn. He also received three more Assumption University’s Awards; they were Assumption University’s Golden Ring, Assumption University’s Golden Pin and St. Montfort’s Award. His impression of working at ABAC is that he has seen the development of Assumption Business Administration College (ABAC) to Assumption University (AU), a very well known university in Thailand and overseas.

After obtaining a Bachelor Degree in March, 1975, he started working at ABAC on June 9, 1975 as a Physical Education Instructor, and he also handled some other jobs as sports coach, student affairs advisor and R.O.T.C.superintendent since he finished the fifth year of the R.O.T.C.course, and got the ranking of acting sub lieutenant. The P.E. subject was first offered for B.B.A. program students in 1976, he was the only P.E. Instructor until 1978. Since then there were more P.E. Instructors, he was assigned to be course coordinator. While Dr. Witchnee Kuptawathin was the Chairperson of the General Studies Department, he was appointed the Deputy Chairperson in 1997-1998. The Football Association and Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand invited him to be referee several years and ABAC and his superiors allowed him to do so as social contribution. Some

“Be Happy with Your Work”is his favorite sentence that encourages him to work at Assumption University for many years because if we are happy with our work we will do it with fun and happiness. There was his name on the list of the instructors who would retire after the end of the first semester, academic year 2012. During the last summer session, he received a phone from Dr.Krisana Kitcharoen, the Assistant President who asked, “Are you happy with teaching at ABAC?” he said, “Yes, I am very happy with my teaching.”Then he got the chance to be Senior Lecturer and course coordinator up till now.

Dr.Witchnee Kuptawathin OFFICE OF THAI ART AND CULTURE Senior Lecturer, Office of Thai Art and Culture

“All right, I believe you can do it”

After graduating from the Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University with a Bachelor Degree in International Relations, Dr. Witchnee pursued further education and earned a Master’s degree in Political Science from Chulalongkorn University, and a Doctoral degree from Adamson University in Philosophy of Education. Moreover, she also earned a certificate of completion on Advanced Studies in Educational Science as Specialization on Educational Management from the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Science, Katholike Universitei, Leuven, Belgium. Before joining ABAC (AU) in 1974, Dr. Witchnee was invited to deliver lectures to classes as a guest lecturer on French in several schools in Bangkok. In addition, she also delivered lectures as a part-time lecturer at ABAC (AU). Due to long distance travel and inconvenience, spending her limited time delivering lecturers at and commuting to ABAC (AU) was not so easy. Impressed by ABAC (AU)’ s administrators, colleagues and students, she eventually decided

to be a full time lecturer almost four decades ago. At that time, she was assigned as lecturer in Business, Society and Government course. In 1991 – 2003 she was appointed as Chairperson of General Studies Department and later on, from 2003 - 2012 as “Director for the Office of Thai Arts and Culture”. Together with the joint cooperation of Thai Tourism Authority of Thailand, she was the Director for the Tour Guide Training Programme and also collaborated with the well-known Organizations, “Ruamjit Nomklao Foundation for Youth “under royal patronage. Besides that she also spent her time writing textbooks, books and poetry. Many people came to her asking for advices and suggestions in Thai cultural experiences and Thai language. Every time she was assigned any work which was not in her particular field of expertise and specific skills, Brother Martin would encourage her with an encouraging statement as “All right, I believe you can do it.” This was an inspirational knocking on her heart!

Dr. Samusa Nakasingh

“Working hard conquers all things”

STUDENT AFFAIRS CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENT Senior Lecturer, Center for International Student

Dr. Samusa Nakasingh, after her B.A. from Chulalongkorn University, then spent 14 years in studying, working, and traveling in the U.S. and returned home with a Ph.D in Higher Ed. Admin., from the University of Missouri, USA. in 1979. Since then, she’s been working at ABAC from 1979 until present. Starting out with teaching, became the Director of the General Studies (1980-1992); Post Religious Studies at the Phillipines; a Lecturer at the Grad School of Religious Studies and Tourism, setting up the International Center ( 1994-1997), directing the Center until retirement year (1998-2003) and has been an Advisor at the Center until present.

been a privilege that I cherish. So often international students will return with their wives and children to visit what was once their “second home”and introduce me to their families. What joyful events these reunions have become! So, by now I am not only an “Auntie” of those former students also their “Great Granny!”. She is grateful to the Brothers and Administrators at ABAC who have given her the opportunity to be of service to others and thank God especially for the great gift of His Love that she could share. And, this is why she has been working in ABAC all of my life in Thailand.” “Certainly, growing up I believed in the notion “Honesty is the Best Policy.”And still, years later, I believe in it today. While working, I have been preaching the Brothers of St. Gabriel’s motto: “LABOR OMNIA VINCIT”: WORKING HARD CONQUERS ALL THINGS, which is also ABAC’s motto to all the International Freshmen. This is what I love and have been practicing in what I have been preaching. Therefore, I will have to gratefully put all the effort, with heart and soul, into whatever I do, and for the place, the nation or person(s) we do love. And towards the evening of my life, I also apply in my daily living style: “Buddha’s Natural Law of Impermanence”, so I’ll become stronger to accept others and things as they are in order to attain a peaceful world.”

This is the reason why “Dr. Sam”, as most students call her, said that she is so grateful to the Brothers and Administrators at ABAC who have given her the opportunity to be of service to others and thank God especially for the great gift of His Love that she could share. And, this is why she has been working in ABAC all of her life in Thailand. “I’ve been very blessed in being able to do what I love at ABAC, i.e. welcoming guests or newly arrived international students at the airport, helping them to settle in as they become adjusted to the Land of Smiles. To be able to share all that Assumption University has to offer and to share the rich culture of Thailand has

Mrs. Suwanna Benjadol INSTITUTE FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION Senior Lecturer, Institute for English Language Education

“Be true to yourself and never stop loving what you do and you’ll be happy.” Between class periods at Assumption University, students and teachers rushing from one class to another is not an unusual sight. Among them is an elegant-looking lady who has been doing this for more than 33 years, Ajarn Suwanna Benjadol who describes her life as “simple and steady.”

Oilers) shows how much I am bonded to the city, ”she talked about her son who, like his younger brother “Oat”, graduated from Assumption University. While everything seemed to be settled, destiny found the person it belonged to. Ajarn Suwanna had to fulfill her duty of a grateful daughter to her mother. The Banjadol family returned to Thailand, and Ajarn Suwanna started her destined career as a fulltime lecturer at the Department of English, Assumption Business Administration College in June 1980. Since then, Ajarn Suwanna has been a part of AU family in educating classes of aspiring students and solidifying AU’s reputation in the Thai academic arena. Her devotion to AU was greatly recognized. Thirtythree years have passed. Ajarn Suwanna is still the young and energetic lecturer for the now Institute for English Language Education (IELE) at Assumption University. She is still doing what she has been doing- educating the young. “I am blessed to have found what I’m meant for. Life doesn’t have to be complicated. Be true to yourself and never stop loving what you do, and you’ll be happy,” is her motto.

Her educational background started at Rajinee School, where she spent the next 15 years as a straight-A student. Realizing that she was destined to be an educator, Ajarn Suwanna had her tertiary education at Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University in 1969. “I chose Faculty of Education because I wanted to become a teacher. That’s all, ”she said. After graduating, she started her sojourn to Houston, Texas, USA. In the fall of 1974, she was enrolled in University of Houston in Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Program. She received her Master’s Degree in the spring of 1976. Houston is also the place where she found her other half, Khun Fong Benjadol. The young lovers got married and spent another 3 years running their business there. The city became their second home. “The fact that my first born was named ‘Oiler’ after the city’s Football team (Houston

Mr. Kamol Kitsawad OFFICE OF THE UNIVERSITY REGISTRAR The University Registrar / Director, Office of the University Registrar

“Challenges in life are best managed through humility, confidence, entrepreneurship and optimism” Having joined Assumption University on August 15, 1981, Mr. Kamol Kitsawad has put in 32 years as University Registrar, member of the Assumption University top management team, committee member on several university core and supportive activities, and as entrepreneur in special business units for the institution. From his prior experience as teacher and Administrator with St. Gabriel’s College and the Catholic Teachers Association of Thailand, combined with his academic specializations at Undergraduate, Master, Doctoral degree levels in Education, Certificate in Educational Administration from the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium and Strategic Financial Management in Universities, UNESCO respectively. Mr. Kamol Kitsawad has been recognized in the past, with an Award for Outstanding Academic Support by the Association of Private Higher Education Institutions in Thailand (APHEIT) in 1995, the St. Bernard Award for Special Merit, 1999, and St. Montfort’s Award, 2009, by Assumption University. Mr. Kitsawad has also received Four Royal Orders and Decorations for academicians in Thailand.

Mr. Kamol Kitsawad has proved consistently to be a caring and careful administrator of the University’s registration services and other functions as assigned by the university. In his tenure as Registrar, he has seen student enrollments grow from 4,000 in 1981 to over 20,000 at the present time. Correlated with the expansion in student numbers has been the growth of the Office of the Registrar to about 50 full time staff currently. Based on Mr. Kitsawad’s and his staff’s aggressive marketing overseas, the Assumption University International student representation has swollen to over 3,000 in 2013 and the university has been awarded the Thai Prime Minister’s Award for the Highest Revenue realized through the exporting of Educational Services, in 2002 and 2009 respectively. Throughout his service years at Assumption University, Mr. Kamol Kitsawad has added value to the lives of his colleagues, students and other stakeholders with filial dedication and sense of purpose. Mr. Kamol Kitsawad’s personal motto is: Challenges in life are best managed through humility, confidence, entrepreneurship and optimism.

Dr. Laura M. Brahmakasikara ACADEMIC AFFAIRS - OFFICE OF THE V.P. FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Senior Lecturer, Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs

Dr. Laura M. Brahmakasikara is a native of the Philippines but living in Thailand because she is married to a Thai. Her husband, already retired, used to work with the Airports Authority of Thailand. They have two children, both grown-ups. Her daughter, the eldest, is working at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a lawyer and her son is working at Rightman Company as an interior decorator and designer.

scholarship by Assumption University to pursue her doctorate in educational leadership. Although she is not very active in teaching at present and only teaching part-time at the Graduate School of e-learning, she still yearns to be a full-time teacher. Presently, although not fully engaged in teaching, she has the privilege of being a part of the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

She first came to Thailand in November 1979 and only after a week was given a job at Mahidol University as a Research Assistant. She subsequently moved to Assumption University in June 1981 where she started her teaching profession as an English teacher.

She believes teaching is an incredibly honorable profession and she is glad to be a part of it. “In judging our progress as individuals, we tend to concentrate on external factors such as one’s social position, influence and popularity, wealth and standard of education – but internal factors may be even more crucial in assessing one’s development as a human being: honesty, sincerity, simplicity, humility, purity, generosity, absence of vanity, readiness to serve your fellow men – qualities within the reach of every soul – are the foundation on one’s spiritual life. Never forget that a saint is a sinner that keeps trying – Nelson Mandela”.

She received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of the Philippines, her Master’s degree from Chulalongkorn University and her doctoral degree from Assumption University. In 1997, a year after the completion of her Master’s degree, she was given a position in the Department of English as the Chairperson. Prior to this, she was an Assistant Chairperson in the same department. She held the Chairpersonship for eight years. It was during this span of years while serving Assumption University as the Chairperson of the English Department she was given the St. Bernard’s Award (3rd class) on December 24, 2001 for her performance beyond the normal calls of duty. In 2004, she was given

“In short, let’s reflect on what God said to Samuel in 1 Samuel 16:7: But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do not look on his appearance or the height of his stature because I have rejected him for the Lord sees not as man sees man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.â&#x20AC;?

Mrs. Enriqueta D. Bovornpanomsak MARTIN DE TOURS SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS - MATHEMATICS Senior Lecturer, Department of Mathematics, Martin de Tours School of Management and Economics

Mrs. Enriqueta D. Bovornpanomsak hails from the Philippines. She joined Assumption Business Administration College (ABAC) in 1981, a few months after arriving in Thailand to join her would-be husband. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree major in Mathematics (Cum laude) and a Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics degree both from Manuel L. Quezon University in Manila. She also has some years of college teaching experiences from the same university and high school teaching of Mathematics at several schools, particularly at the University of the Philippines Integrated School, before coming to Thailand. Mrs. Enriqueta is married to Mr. Prasit Bouornpanomsak, a retired engineer. They are blessed with a son, an only child.

But the most significant achievement she considers while in ABAC is not academic, rather it is spiritual. A few years after she started teaching in this university, with the guidance of some colleagues, she became a born-again Christian. To her, it is the best thing that ever happened in her life, and she feels it as ironic that it happened in a Buddhist – dominated country. “Sometimes when we encounter injustice or unfairness, nonsensible reasoning, distorted facts, or being misunderstood, we tend to defend others or ourselves. But nobody would listen to us because we don’t have the influence or the power to which people look up to. While we become victims others consider us as villains”.

To her, teaching Mathematics is a real joy. But aside from teaching, she also enjoyed making herself busy helping others. An achievement she really enjoyed is the founding of the “International Fund For Charities Organization”, an organization she initiated and served as president. This organization comprised mostly of foreign ABAC lecturers and staff. For several years, (this organization) was able to raise funds through charity fairs held at Huamark campus. From these funds they donated school needs as well as personal effects to many poor school children in some rural areas in Thailand. From the border of Thailand and Myanmar at Rachaburi and Kanchanaburi, to the eastern province of Chachaengsao, the organization (in ABAC’s name) gave donations to seven rural schools. Donations were also given to the children at a refugee camp in Mae Hong Son and to some poor children in a small Christian church in Sakon Nakhon.

“God sees the truth but waits” “People judge us as bad, wrongdoers, or dumb. But God sees the truth but waits. In due time, in God’s time, the truth is exposed or revealed that we are avenged for what others did to us. Although sometimes the truth comes out a bit too late, at least people would know who we really are. Sweet revenge? Could be. But what is important is we have shown to those people and to the world the real us who cares for justice and truth, and that justice and truth always prevail and prove our worth”.

Dr. Cherdpong Sibunruang MARTIN DE TOURS SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS Dean, Martin de Tours School of Management and Economics

It is with great pride that Dr. Cherdpong Sibunruang looks upon his 28 years of academic career in Assumption University. Over these years he has assumed various responsibilities such as Chairperson, Associate Dean and Dean of the Martin De Tours School of Management and Economics and it has been a very fulfilling experience. He has always had a passion for academia and he is indeed thankful to Assumption University for giving him such an opportunity. Dr. Cherdpong Sibunruang’s educational background has been varied. After completing his bachelor degree in Economics from Thammasat University, he pursued his MSc. in Economics and MBA (Finance focus) in the United States. He earned his Doctorate of Management (DM), specialization in Education Management from De La Salle University, Manila. He has also attended several Certified Executive Development Programs conducted by University of Houston, Stanford University and Ministry of University Affairs (Thailand). These experiences have been invaluable in helping him successfully manage the biggest School towards achieving the mission of developing highly qualified, ethical and socially conscious business graduates/leaders. He is also very fortunate that he has a very dedicated team to work with and together they have been able to continuously introduce innovations and improvements in the curriculum and teaching and learning areas. One of his favorite quotes is by Albert Einstein “Imagination is more important than knowledge”. He truly believes that the purpose of education is not only to impart knowledge but to provide opportunities and a conducive environment for students to develop their imagination. Thereby the students not only acquire the right skill set but also a quest for lifelong learning. An organization’s greatest resource is its people. He therefore strongly supports essential investment in faculty development, in order to achieve the desired education outcomes and improve the School’s research profile. Under his deanship, he aspires to further advance the standard and reputation of the School and he is confident that with the cooperation of each and every member of the School they would be able to achieve their goals.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Imagination is more important than knowledgeâ&#x20AC;?

Dr. Thongdee Kijboonchoo GRADUATE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS - M.B.A. (Business Administration) Senior Lecturer, M.B.A. Program, Graduate School of Business

These institutions - Sacred Heart Novitiate and La Salle Scholasticate in India, St. Louis University, University of the Philippines in the Philippines; Portland State University, Oregon State University and University of Oregon in U.S.A., gave me knowledge, skills and enriched life experiences. They inculcated, taught and trained me to lead my life and to be whatever I am now. I am thankful and grateful to these worthy and memorable institutions.

“When you experience abundance, remember the days of famine when you enjoy riches, think of poverty and misery.”

These institutions – Assumption College Thonburi, Assumption College, Assumption College Ubonrajathani and Assumption University gave me opportunities to work, to learn, to find and follow embedded life interest, to create value and satisfy life fulfillment, among others. Whatever I am, whatever I own, whatever I will be and will own, I am immensely indebted to these beneficent and wonderful institutions. Henceforth, it’s time to thank, to repay with greater efforts, devotion and dedication throughout the remaining life.

namics, analytical and creative individuals. Students are supposed to come up with eclectic models from what they have learned. Thanks to flexibility and academic freedom in the GSB, supportive as well as its favorable management style, one is allowed to follow his own best way of teaching. Teaching, then, becomes meaningful and challenging; it turns persons to be independent, dare to be, problem solvers, innovative and creative minds. Time flies but ABACness – love, care and generosity never fades; it still remains and also magnifies. The Academic Laurels and Palms Reward turns the evening of my working life to the morning of my working life. Thanks!

“You are welcome to ABAC!”a touching and much treasured message kept alive in me. The President Emeritus, Rev. Bro. Martin Komolmas accepted me to be one member in AU with his own handwriting. “Go and study more to become specialized”, a big support, living encouragement and powerful inspiration for my pursuit of higher education from the President Emeritus and the current Rector, Rev. Bro. Bancha Saenghiran. In retrospect on my few years of early teaching, it was text teaching, rote learning – focusing on knowledge, principles and memory. Luckily and happily, it is now replaced by a newer life approach which is “students’ learning is better than teachers’ teaching”. Make students exert greater efforts to learn. Thus, “to teach is to learn; and to learn is to teach.”Subject matters are just materials and tools to train, form and shape students to be dy-

“When you experience abundance, remember the days of famine; when you enjoy riches, think of poverty and misery.”This guiding principle is tantamount to an automatic wealth stabilizer. It is a powerful mechanism to make one forever prosperous. Through frugality, reasonable and moderate spending as well as careful investments, ones’ wealth will certainly grow and multiply. Thus, they will become even a millionaire in their own ways”.

MR. MOHAMMAD A. ASHOOR AL-SHAMMARY MARTIN DE TOURS SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT AND ECONOMICS - ACCOUNTING Senior Lecturer, Department of Accounting, Martin de Tours School of Management and Economics

“If you have the power to oppress humans remember the power of God over you” Mr. Mohammad Alshammary received his MBA (Management) from the Marshall University, West Virginia, USA july-1979 and ws admitted in the PhD program Duke University, North Carolina.

On top of that is the friendly relations he had with Brother Martin, and all heads of accounting department. Since he had joined ABAC he has never heard the words “cannot” or “impossible to-do” from Brother Martin big heart, his capacity to listen, understand, and solve problems has been crucial for him to stay all these years in Thailand. He impressed Mr. Mohammad Alshammary the most with this short story.

In his early days of work between 1964-1975 Mr. Mohammad Alshammary got promoted as Assistant Accounting Auditor, and then Auditor in the Electricity Organization in Baghdad, Iraq, which is in charge of generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity in the whole country.

“The Iraqi ambassador called to let me know that he will be in ABAC to seek scholarship for his son who just finished his engineering degree in Baghdad (Iraq then was under embargo by United Nations). The next day the surprise came from Brother Martin that not only the ambassador son was granted full scholarship, but all the Embassy’s officers’ sons as well. Since then I knew Brother Martin’s mission goes beyond running this institution but also to deliver the idea that we are all humans without any consideration to the religion or faith, and education is one of many means to improve relations among different nations”.

From 1983 until 1984, he was the administrative manager for Alsaleh Heavy Equipment Company in Kuwait. Then, from 1986 till now he has been serving ABAC as lecturer for the undergraduate level in the Accounting Department. In addition, he taught at the graduate level from 1996 – 1998. Since he joined ABAC in 1986 till now, he has had many reasons to be in Thailand for almost 26 years, but definitely not because of the salary neither the position. It was the easy, friendly, smily receiption you see where ever you go in ABAC, the democratic way the brothers run this institution; free to say and suggest, and also to object if the things is wrong, without fear or precaution.

Finally for the People who had power remember this “If you have the power to oppress humans remember the power of God over you”.

Mrs. Him-Yock SAWadsaringkarn INSTITUTE FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION Senior Lecturer, Institute for English Language Education

Mrs. Him Yock Sawadsaringkarn graduated with a master degree in Applied Languages from Toulouse-le-Mirail, France. In 1986, she joined ABAC as a lecturer in the English Department, Faculty of Humanities, working under Ajarn Dr. Sompit Porsutyaruk and Ajarn Tuang Tuangthon. Both of them have had a great influence on her career, inspiring her to follow them in their work ethics of hard word, devotion, and dedication to the task at hand. As such she has always striven to maintain high standards of professionalism, with the well-being and development of her students in mind. She has experienced many beautiful moments throughout her two decades of teaching at ABAC, not least among them are when she sees her students beam with pride on their graduation day, or when discussions and conversations in or outside classes are opportunities to show mutual care and respect for one another, like during the flood in 2011, when one student enquired about her well-being and offered to give her assistance if necessary. These are memories she will always cherish. She sincerely thanks the university for these great moments.

“I experienced many beautiful moments throughout my two decades of teaching at ABAC”

Mrs. Malinee Chanvipas FACULTY OF ARTS - B.A. (BUSINESS CHINESE) Senior Lecturer, Department of Business Chinese

Mrs. Malinee Chanvipas was born in Bangkok on 16 June 1941. Even though she is 72 years old now, she always feels that she is 27 because every day she is surrounded by students, and they infect her with their youth and vitality. In 1956 she finished her Thai high school. Then she went to Taiwan to continue her study and got a bachelor degree from Taiwan Normal University. After she finished her study in Taiwan, she came back to Thailand to take on a teaching job and ever since teaching has become her profession. Due to her character and disposition, she knows apart from being a teacher, other kind of jobs would not be suitable for her, especially the world of business which is full of traps, since she was very calm, direct and honest, and certainly not a calculating person. To her, only an environment like school is where we would not have to swindle. The only focus for her, like other teachers is to educate the young ones by sharing their knowledge and life experiences with them, like how a gardener takes care of a garden. Guidance, life and caring are to be given to the students who are the very hope of our future. She loves teaching. Spending time with students is one of her favorites, especially with ABAC students. The students at ABAC, from what she has observed, share a common quality of being hardworking and attentive to their studies. For example, whenever she returns the result of their exam papers, they always check over and over to look at the mistakes they have made and come back to her right away with questions they have which to her is the spirit of not being afraid of making mistakes, as well as the willingness to learn from their mistakes, a very valuable trait asset one should possess in order to become a well-rounded person. During all these years in the field of education, she has come across many meaningful quotations. However, among which what has impressed her the most is the Chinese sign hung at the main entrance of Taiwan Normal University. The sign says “LiangshiXingguo”, which means that the prosperity of a nation relies on a true teacher. And it is this sign she has adopted as her motto. She believes that if we see ourselves as true and authentic teachers or educators, we should all undertake the responsibility behind the message of this Chinese sign “LiangshiXingguo”.

“Prosperity of a nation relies on a true teacher”

Mr. Win Hlaing FACULTY OF ARTS - GENERAL EDUCATION Senior Lecturer, Deptartment of General Education

Mr. Win Hlaing is married and has one child. He pursued his Bachelor in Engineering (Civil) and later on received a postgraduate professional certificate in Hydrology and Hydraulics Engineering. He has been an civil engineer with experiences in Hydrology, Concrete (Laboratory and filed testing) and Dam construction, supervision and quality control. From 1962 to 1964, Mr. Win Hlaing studied in Intermediate Science Part A and B at Rangoon University. The following four years he studied in Civil Engineering at Rangoon Institute of Technology and received the Bachelor of Civil Engineering in 1968. In 1973 he completed his postgraduate studies in Hydrology and Hydraulics engineering at Delft University, Netherlands under UNDP fellowship program. In 1968, Mr. Win Hlaing worked for the Joint Irrigation Department in Burma. After that, from 1968 till 1986, he served as Assistant Engineer (Civil) for the Irrigation Planning and Design Division. He was also an engineer counterpart to UN consultants for various feasibility studies for multipurpose dam projects, a counterpart engineer to Sanyu Consulting engineers, Nippon Koei Consulting engineers, Japan, Zelkoprom Export, consulting engineer in the Former Soviet Union, and Senior engineer to Lahmeyer International Consulting Engineers ( West Germany ) in construction, supervision and quality control for KINDA Dam multipurpose project financed by the World Bank. In 1987 he joined Assumption University as an instructor in the General Education Department, Faculty of Arts and served this university until 2012. He also worked as Senior Lecturer and Deputy Chairperson during the twenty-five and a-half years time. During that period, he taught English, Mathematics, Environmental Science and Engineering Graphic Drawing subjects in both Huamark and Suvanabhumi campuses. In addition, he contributed in training teachers at St. Grabriel High School in development of teaching Science subjects in English programs. Besides that, he also taught special classes for students in Environmental Science and worked as an academic committee member in the General Education Department for Exams, grades and quality control. In December 2007, he received an award from the Royal Princess for serving Assumption University for 20 years. To his mind, the performance of a manager is measured by how well he can organize a large number of people and how effectively he can get the highest performance from each of the individuals and blend them into a co-ordinated performances.

“We’re NOT primarily put on this earth to see through one another, but to see one another through”

“It’s a person’s inner core that counts”

Ms. Khin Mae Kyaw INSTITUTE FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION Senior Lecturer, Institute for English Language Education

Ms. Khin Mae Kyaw’s life as an academician began at Rangoon Arts & Science University. Later on she was transferred to Mandalay Arts & Science University, and then to Rangoon Institute of Technology and Rangoon Institute of Medicine. However in 1987, as she was contemplating on expanding her teaching experience outside of Burma, her best friend, who at that time was working at ABAC suggested working at this well-known college. January 15th of 2013 marked the 25th year of her teaching life at Assumption University. She uses the word “Life” instead of “Service” because her life revolves around her students. She makes them realize that there are times when the failures, guilts and sorrows lead us to despair. However, we need not give in. We can rise, walk again and “Choose Life”, as she believes that the past is our background for today and today is our foundation for the future. She has chosen this profession because she believes that teachers play an important role in moulding the lives of the youths who one day, in turn, will be shaping and developing their nation(s) to stand proud in this competitive but sharing Society of Our Global Village. Thousands of her students are already out there, and many of them have become successful citizens in their own countries and elsewhere regardless of whatever profession or career they may have chosen. She agrees with a famous entertainer who once said, ”Success has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It’s what you do for others”. Her precious, most beautiful and memorable moments at ABAC are when she sees the happy, proud smiling faces of her students on their Graduation Day, especially when they come and say, “Thank you, Archarn”. She feels rewarded and contented knowing that her dedication to her profession has come to fruition. Her most treasured moment has been the occasion when she received an award from Her Royal Highness Princess Soamsavali. Moreover, her greatest reward of all is being appreciated by the IELE which has given her opportunities to improve herself. “Without Assumption University there will be no IELE, and without the IELE and my students I will not be where I am today”.

Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is not morals alone that demand success, we shall do more, achieve greatness

ACADEMIC LAURELS AND PALMS

2013

Assumption University of Thailand