On Monday, 3 December 2012, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somchin Suntavaruk, Distinguished Member of the University Council and Acting President of STOU, led STOU personnel in a ceremony honoring HM King Bhumbol Adulyadej on the occasion of his 85th birthday on 5 December 2012. Demonstrations of loyalty included the lighting of an auspicious ceremonial candle, a group oath of allegiance and songs in honor of HM the King.