Brothers Richard and Eric Dong Honor Dr. Nafie with Performance and Award at his Retirement Party
At the on-campus event honoring Dr. Nafie for his 39 years of service to Clairbourn School, alumni Richard and Eric Dong gave a moving piano performance and speech. They performed the Hungarian Dance by Brahms, Rondo Alla Turca by Mozart and Marche Militaires by Schubert. They expressed their deep gratitude for Dr. Nafie’s tenure as Headmaster of Clairbourn and presented him with a congressional recognition award from Congresswoman Judy Chu. You can watch the full video here:
Richard and Eric Dong’s speech is below:
Eric and I are deeply honored to be present at this memorable event. Our minds are filled with great memories from this school that have changed who we are. As Alumni, we can proudly say that we have enjoyed our time here and are in deep gratitude for Dr. Nafie’s great tenure as Headmaster of Clairbourn for over 39 years. Two days ago, we attended the Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. honoring the 50th Anniversary of Robert F. Kennedy. And we would like to quote some words from the service: “We gather today not only to commemorate the life of Robert F. Kennedy, but to find a renewed sense of purpose in it: to recommit ourselves to the ideals of justice, equality and freedom for all. Half a century after his last campaign, the light of Robert Kennedy’s examples and legacy still shines, illuminating the challenges we face but also the capability we have-especially our young people-to seek and to build a newer world.”
So in this regard, today let us commemorate the 39 years of hard work and dedication Dr. Nafie has put into this school, for each year, he watched us grow with pride. I am glad to announce that we would like to have the honor to present this congressional recognition award on behalf of Congresswoman Judy Chu and state its words. Certificate of Congressional Recognition Presented to Dr. Robert W. Nafie, Headmaster of Clairbourn School. Your 39 years of dedication to the Youth of your community and Commitment to their educational success are truly commendable and greatly appreciated. Congratulations on your retirement and best wishes in your future endeavors!
Richard Dong has fond memories of Headmaster for a Day with Dr. Nafie and credits Dr. Nafie for inspiring him to pursue his passion for service and leadership. He remarked, “The Headmaster for a Day is truly wonderful because my leadership potential was found and my leadership started from that day, thanks to Dr. Nafie and to Clairbourn School.”
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