Page 33 - A Life Well-Lived Is a Beautiful Memory

Bhanupong was not only academically brilliant but also admired for his looks, often voted

the most handsome professor by students. Despite being a preferred choice for administrative
roles, he chose to become a dean later in his career. We supported each other throughout our
careers, and when I became a dean, he joined as a deputy dean for planning.
Since I became the Rector, Bhanupong stepped into the role of Vice-Rector for Academic

Affairs at Thammasat University. This is a significant position, and I must say, he did an outstanding
job. In the deans’ meetings, he never failed to impress everyone with his thoughtful insights and
suggestions. His work even led some people to see him as my potential successor. Bhanupong’s
legacy, in my opinion, lies in his pioneering work and expertise in quality assessment. He was

also a fearless administrator, making tough decisions that weren’t always popular but were for
the greater good. For example, he was a dean who dared to make bold decisions. He increased the
teaching responsibility for the lecturers for the Faculty of Economics from three to four courses
per year. His visionary approach led him to advise me against cutting funds for the development

of faculty members seeking further education abroad, even during the Asian economic crisis.
This decision helped Thammasat University maintain and continuously improve the quality of
its academic staff to this day.
On a personal note, Bhanupong and I share a close bond. We have great conversations, freely

sharing opinions and critiques. He always addressed me by my nickname in our interactions.
However, in formal settings, he switched to a more respectful and cautious tone, which sometimes
made me a bit uncomfortable, but it just shows his keen sense of propriety and respect.
He was beloved by students not just for his looks but for his genuine teaching spirit. His

passion for teaching was another aspect that stood out. He didn’t just teach economics; he inspired
his students to think critically and compassionately about the world. It’s not surprising that many
of his students went on to make significant contributions in various fields. He devoted himself to
his students, especially those writing their theses under him. He had a fan club of former students

who every year still invited him for meals, showing their appreciation for his mentorship.
Bhanupong‘s only regret was sometimes misjudging people when hiring new faculty, but
that’s a common human error. Overall, he was happy and fulfilled with his life at Thammasat
University. His contributions, both in teaching and administration, were invaluable and will always

be remembered fondly.
My relationship with Bhanupong wasn’t just about work; we shared quite a bit about our
personal lives as well. If he knew something, chances were I did too. He often visited my home
and became quite close to my mother. Every time they met, my mother would entrust him to take

care of me as an elder. Many of my friends, especially my Japanese friends, became his close
friends too. Bhanupong was a person of warmth and kindness. I remember a time when I was

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