From a small beginning, Dhurakij Pundit College grew rapidly in student numbers and academic programs. DPU owes its success mainly to the vision and dedication of Dr. Sawai, who served as the university's first president until his death in 1994, and Khun Sanan, who guided its expansion as Honorary Chairman of the University Council while pursuing a distinguished career in government followed by private law practice. In 1984, the country's Ministry of University Affairs conferred university status on DPU in recognition of its high academic standards and achievements. Only three other private colleges earned a similar distinction at that time.