Leadership is not measured only by the position one holds, but by the lives one touches, the values one upholds, and the legacy one leaves behind. As Vice Chancellor of Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB), the journey of Prof. Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, has been shaped by this spirit of leadership through education, service, faith, and human formation.
As Fr. Patrick’s tenure came to a close, the university community gathered on August 18, 2026, for a thanksgiving program celebrating his journey and contributions to the university. The program, more than a farewell occasion, became moments of gratitude, reflection, and appreciation for a leader whose presence has become an important part of NDUB’s continuing story.
Fr. Patrick entered the venue accompanied by distinguished guests in a procession of students, who carried placards bearing greetings, reflections, and farewell messages. One of the significant moments of the ceremony was the inauguration of the Legacy Wall that represents the lasting imprint of his service and leadership at NDUB. The ceremonial opening was conducted by Dr. Fr. Charles B. Gordon, CSC, Pro-Vice Chancellor, followed by a musical dance by students.
Portraying Fr. Patrick’s life, journey, values, and contributions, a documentary video prepared by the Public Relations (PR) Office was shown on the screen. A citation of honor, tribal dance, souvenir presentation, candle presentation, group song, and speeches further reflected the affection, respect, and appreciation of the university community.
During the opening speech, Fr. Charles highlighted Fr. Patrick’s simplicity, patience, discipline, and remarkable ability to remain calm in any situation. He noted that the values represented by Fr. Patrick’s life can serve as pathways for others to follow. His leadership, conduct, and commitment can inspire members of the NDUB community to cultivate similar qualities in their own lives.
Dr. Br. Subal Rozario, CSC, Registrar, reflected on the knowledge and wisdom embodied in Fr. Patrick’s life. Referring to the biblical account of King Solomon, he recalled how Solomon asked God for knowledge and wisdom to govern His people wisely. Pleased with Solomon’s request, God granted him wisdom as well as riches and honor. Br. Subal drew a connection between this wisdom and Fr. Patrick’s own journey.
In his farewell address, Fr. Patrick expressed his deep emotion at the transition, saying that he was “really speechless” in the face of such a meaningful farewell. He also expressed his gratitude to the university community and appreciation for the initiative taken to honor his journey.
Reflecting on his journey, he spoke about the importance of communication and the power of oral expression, observing that speech is one of the best ways to communicate with others, regardless of whether the language is English, Bengali, or another language.
Drawing on ancient Greek mythology, he referred to the Three Graces—Aglaia, Euphrosyne, and Thalia—figures traditionally associated with grace, beauty, joy, and gracious interaction. Through this reference, he reflected on the importance of knowing not only what to say, but also how to move, how to express oneself, and how to relate to others with grace.
Fr. Patrick emphasized that a person needs the ability and courage to embrace change, believe in oneself, and remain committed to others. He also spoke about the importance of cooperation, sharing, mutual support, and a sense of family. At NDUB, he said, these values have been reflected in the spirit of sharing and supporting one another.
Evening gathering
The farewell celebrations continued with another program in the evening dedicated to Fr. Patrick. It began with a universal prayer led by Sr. Shagorica Maria Gomes, CSC, Deputy Director of Student Affairs, followed by welcome remarks by Br. Subal. The evening program, bringing together administrators, faculty members, and staff, featured speeches, personal tributes, and group performances.
Dean Prof. Dr. Aloke Kumar Chakraborty and Chairmen of different academic departments, including Prof. Dr. Md. Azizur Rahman, Prof. Golam Sarwar Chowdhury, Dr. Md. Shahidul Kabir, Prof. AHM Saiful Islam, Dr. Vhokto Kumar Biswas, and Dr. Md. Mustakimur Rahman, shared their reflections on Fr. Patrick’s leadership and their experiences with him. Heny Norbert Gomes also delivered a speech, followed by a citation of honor presented by Catherine Gomes.
The evening reached its culminating moment with Fr. Patrick’s address and the presentation of gifts from the university community. The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Fr. Charles B. Gordon, CSC, before gathering for a group photograph and dinner.
