HAMILTON, N.Y.—George Avakian, a legendary jazz producer, recording industry innovator, and music historian, received an honorary Doctor of Letters from Colgate University at Colgate’s 2014 commencement on May 18.

George Avakian

“George Avakian has provided the soundtrack for generations of jazz listeners and enthusiasts,” said Colgate’s president, Jeffrey Herbst, about Avakian’s career. “He introduced listeners to new ways to enjoy and understand music, and assured a great legacy for some of the world’s greatest creators and performers, including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Mahalia Jackson.”

Avakian’s love of jazz began as boy listening to late-night broadcasts of Fats Waller and Duke Ellington, and he began writing about jazz as a student for the Horace Mann School newspaper. As a sophomore at Yale, he convinced Decca Records to let him create the world’s first reissue album, “Chicago Jazz.” It wasn’t long before Columbia Records invited him to produce “Hot Jazz Classics,” which became a revolutionary retrospective LP for listeners across the globe.

After serving his country in World War II, Avakian became a music industry executive, a writer and commentator, an educator, manager, and pioneer of new technology. He brought us the 33 1/3 LP that remains the format audio aficionados prefer to this day.He is an inspiration and role model to people of any age who are determined to turn their artistic passion into not only a gratifying life, but also a service to the world.

Peter Balakian, Donald M and Constance H. Rebar Professor of the Humanities at Colgate, presented Avakian with the honor.

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WASHINGTON—The Armenian National Committee of America’s (ANCA) Hovig Apo Saghdejian Capital Gateway Program and the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) Young Professionals (YP) D.C. chapter joined forces recently to offer a hands-on training seminar for Washington-based public policy professionals working in government, politics, public policy, and media. The standing-room only June 18 event, which attracted participants ranging from recent graduates to established public policy veterans, featured practical presentations by respected government affairs experts Charles Yessaian of JMH Group, Aram Verdiyan of Accolade Partners, and Hakob Stepanyan of Cotton & Company.

A scene from the networking seminar hosted by the ANCA Hovig Apo Saghdejian Capital Gateway Program and the AGBU Young Professionals D.C. chapter. (Photo by Alina Sarkissian)

“We would like to thank Chuck, Aram, and Hakob for leveraging their networking best-practices to support the career growth of Armenian Americans from across the Greater Washington, D.C. community,” said ANCA Legislative Director Raffi Karakashian. “The ANCA looks forward to continuing our partnership with the AGBU YP D.C. team as we expand and empower our community growing and increasingly vibrant presence in the public policy sector.”

Yessaian, a longtime veteran of Capitol Hill who now serves as vice president of government relations for JMH Group, primarily focused on the significance of in-person networking. “You have got to go out there, you have got to go talk to people, and you have got to follow up,” said Yessaian during his motivational presentation. “It is imperative that you continue networking. You cannot neglect it.”

Yessaian’s extensive career in the world of politics has varied from working for the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to serving on the staffs of U.S. Representatives Fred Upton and Joe Schwarz. His engaging and insightful presentation was followed by Aram Verdiyan and Hakob Stepanyan, the chairman and treasurer of AGBU YP D.C., respectively. Verdiyan and Stepanyan directed their discussion towards the benefits of developing and deploying a well-crafted LinkedIn profile.

“LinkedIn is your personal brand,” explained Verdiyan, an economics, mathematics, and business administration graduate from the George Washington University. “The most fundamental difference is that your resume is for outbound career marketing, whereas LinkedIn is an inbound marketing tool, so make sure your profile displays your personality and passions.” Stepanyan, an auditor for Cotton & Company, also underscored the importance of transitioning online networking to face-to-face interaction with potential employers. Successfully accomplishing this, Stepanyan noted, could potentially “result in a higher success rate of getting a job.”

ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian and Gateway Program Advisory Committee chairman Daniel Stepanian-Bennett were on hand to offer opening remarks. Guests were invited to ask questions and share networking stories with the speakers and participants following formal presentations.

The AGBU YP Program consists of young Armenians between the ages of 22 and 40 who support and believe in the preservation and promotion of the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural, career, and humanitarian programs. It was founded in Los Angeles in 1995 and has expanded as far as the Greater Washington, D.C. area due to the efforts of leaders such as Stepanyan and Verdiyan.

Established in 2003, the ANCA Hovig Apo Saghdejian Capital Gateway Program helps Armenian-American college students and recent graduates from across the U.S. to pursue careers in public policy, through three-month grants of free housing, access to the ANCA network of contacts and resources, and hands-on job-search training in the governmental, political, policy, and media worlds. The program is named in memory of the 23-year old youth leader and community activist from Fresno, Calif., who lost his life in 2004 in a tragic car accident. The ANCA is currently seeking a permanent home for the program in Washington, D.C., made possible through a major financial contribution by the family of the late community leader and philanthropist Martha Aramian, to be known as the Martha Aramian Armenian Cultural Center. Substantial support for the program has also been provided by the Cafesjian Family Foundation, longtime ANCA benefactors Frank and Barbara Hekimian, the Tina and Richard V. Carolan Foundation, and the Armenian American Veterans Post of Milford, Mass. (AAVO).

The application deadline for the fall 2014 session of the Gateway Program is July 15, 2014. For more information, visit www.anca.org/gateway. To view photos from the networking event, visit www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152296802256859.1073741898.16968936858&type=3.

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YEREVAN—The American University of Armenia (AUA) recently received a grant for $465,000 from the American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA) to create the AUA Student Services/Student Excellence Center—a modernized space aimed at encouraging collaborative learning, offering up-to-date technological resources, and providing an increased scope of student support services.

A rendering of what the Mihran and Elizabeth Agbabian Hall may look like post-renovation.

With the launch of AUA’s undergraduate programs in 2013, growth in the student body, especially in the international student population, has already begun and will continue over the coming years. Thanks to the support of ASHA, the American University of Armenia will be able to maximize the use of its facilities to support the growing student body, as well as the greater public, with a comprehensive system of services.

The AUA Student Services/Student Excellence Center will be comprised of the Information Desk, the Collaborative Learning Center, the Information Technology (IT) Suite, and the Student Health and Counseling Suite.

The Information Desk will serve as the first contact point where prospective students, enrolled students, and visitors may come with any type of inquiry. The Collaborative Learning Center will provide an ideal space for students to gather and study together in a relaxed atmosphere. The IT Suite will provide technological resources for course instruction and internet-based standardized testing, and will also function as a writing center for students. The Student Health and Counseling Suite will take a holistic approach to individual development and wellbeing in order to provide physical and mental health services to students.

“We are grateful for ASHA’s continuous support in creating an advanced and dynamic learning environment for AUA students,” said AUA President Dr. Bruce M. Boghosian. “This support from the American people allows us to empower students to make the most of their educational experience and to promote a culture of lifelong learning here at AUA.”

A rendering of what the AUA basement may look like post-renovation.

With a globally competitive grant application process, ASHA is a USAID program that provides assistance to schools, libraries, and medical centers outside the United States that serve as study and demonstration centers for American ideas and practices. AUA has received support from ASHA for several past projects, including window replacement for increased energy efficiency, the renovation of AUA’s AGBU Papazian Library, and the development of integrated technology classrooms.

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia is a private, independent university located in Yerevan and affiliated with the University of California. AUA provides a global education in Armenia and the region, offering high-quality graduate and undergraduate studies, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting public service and democratic values.

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NEW YORK—Former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Evans arrived in Portugal on June 14 after an adventurous sailing expedition on the 43-foot yacht “Happy Destiny” in support of the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF). This represented the very first trans-Atlantic crossing on a sailboat for Evans, as well as his fellow crew members Ray Smith, Randal Wright, and Don Kneedler. “Happy Destiny” departed from Portsmouth, Va., on May 3 making port in Bermuda and the Azores, and finally landing in southern Portugal, having successfully completed a 3,260-mile journey.

“Happy Destiny” departed from Portsmouth, Va., on May 3 making port in Bermuda and the Azores, and finally landing in southern Portugal, having successfully completed a 3,260-mile journey.

“It is necessary to take risks, but important to prepare for coping with any situation,” Evans said. “A good team can deal with any problem if there is trust and loyalty between members. Never give up in pursuing your goal, but be flexible in how you get there. Appreciate small pleasures in life, such as sleeping in a warm place and having dry clothes. Help others and they will help you. COAF symbolizes this philosophy,” he continued. “Hence my dedication of this symbolic journey for the children who have lived a life of hardship and now appreciate the good deeds of COAF sponsors.”

Former U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Evans arrived in Portugal on June 14 after an adventurous sailing expedition on the 43-foot yacht “Happy Destiny.”

Garo Armen, COAF’s founder and chairman, stated, “We are deeply thankful to Ambassador John Evans for having dedicated this remarkable undertaking to COAF. We are also deeply thankful to all his COAF supporters for having contributed to this fundraising campaign in recognition of Ambassador Evans and will keep the campaign open through the end of June in his honor.”

In the mid-Atlantic leg of the trip, the crew braved bad weather with Atlantic gale force winds. Several boats returned to shore. A boat sailing nearby the rally, the “Cheeki Rafiki,”made a distress call and then disappeared. Sadly, the young crew was lost at sea. The sailors in the World Cruising Club held a moment of silence in their memory.

The Children of Armenia Fund is a non-profit, non-governmental 501(c)(3) organization. COAF uses community-led approaches to reduce rural poverty, with a particular focus on children. Since the inception of its programs in 2004, COAF has funded and implemented education, health, social, and economic development programs serving more than 25,000 people in rural villages of Armenia. The methods COAF uses in Armenia can be replicated in other communities where children are most vulnerable. These programs create and sustain opportunities for growth and progress. For more information, visit www.coafkids.org or call (212) 994-8234.

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Special for the Armenian Weekly

“Without music, life would be a mistake,” said Friedrich Nietzsche. Several months ago, in an attempt to rectify the mistaken path of my life, I started surfing through YouTube in search of quality music. Somehow I stumbled upon a video of the Russian-Armenian singing sensation Margarita Pozoyan. Her vocals were captivating. With each passing song, her voice kept getting better and better.

Pozoyan performing

“I do not reflect upon my success or victories,” Pozoyan would tell me. “I’m just glad that I have made it thus far without any form of sponsorship or financial support.”

Aside from performing in numerous countries and on different stages, Pozoyan also composes her own songs.

The beginning

During the Great War, Margarita’s great grandparents moved from Akhalkalaki to the village of Otradnaya near the city of Krasnodar in Russia. When she was 2 years old, her family moved from Krasnodar to Artyomovsk in Ukraine.

Margarita Pozoyan

Growing up in the Soviet era, Pozoyan’s sense of Armenian patriotism was always restrained. “I did not consider myself different from my classmates. I knew I was Armenian, but back then, within the USSR, we were all the same,” said Pozoyan.

Her passion for singing started during her kindergarten years. “At home, I used to sing every day, while imagining myself standing in front of large crowds,” Pozoyan reminisced. “At the age of 13, I entered the ‘Bakmutskaya’s Starlet’ singing competition. It was the first time in my life that I performed in front of judges and a large audience. I won the competition.”

‘My family’s unconditional support has been instrumental in my success.’

Not long after, Pozoyan entered Yevgeny Martynov’s “Father’s House” lyrical singing contest, and after numerous rounds of competition emerged victorious in the “Young Voice” category. Her winning streak continued when she won the gold medal at the Youth Delphic Games of Russia and of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

“I have a wonderful family. When I first started singing, my mother did not believe that I could become a professional artist, but over time I proved to her that this is exactly what I was meant to do,” Pozoyan said. “My family’s unconditional support has been instrumental in my success. In fact, everyone in my family sings. We have a lot of fun when we gather as a family and have sing offs.”

The voice

In 2012, Pozoyan auditioned for the Russian reality talent show, “The Voice.” During the show, singer Dima Bilan, the winner of the 2008 Eurovision competition, coached Pozoyan. Under Bilan’s guidance, she reached the final of “The Voice of Russia.”

Growing up, Pozoyan fervently listened to pop, jazz, soul, R&B, rock, and blues. “I studied the works of great artists such as Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Celine Dion, and of course, Cher,” said Pozoyan. “Later on in my life I discovered the incredible talents of Billie Holiday, Dionne Warwick, and Etta James. Today, I closely follow the works of Beyonce, Alicia Keys, and Jennifer Hudson. But my idols have always been Steve Wonders and, the late Michael Jackson.”

Eight years ago, Pozoyan’s friends gave her the nickname Arishata. Arishata became synonymous with Margarita Pozoyan. “Arishata is just a name. It does not translate into a specific word or meaning,” said Pozoyan. “Over time, Arishata became my stage name.”

The present

Arishata is currently working on two different albums, one in English and another in Russian. She hopes to release the Russian album by fall 2014. But while Pozoyan primarily listens to and sings Russian and English songs, she is a fan of many Armenian artists, including Sirusho, Hayko, Tata, Shushan Petrosyan, Andre, Sofi Mkheyan, Sona, Christine Pepelyan, and Arto Tunchboyacian.

“My family was a traditional Armenian family. They instilled Armenian values in me and my siblings,” she said. “I am a proud Armenian. My favorite Armenian song is ‘Krunk,’ which I performed during the 2013 Tashir Music Awards. I am thankful to Inga and Anush and Andre Hovnanyanwho helped me prepare for the ‘Krunk’ performance.” Pozoyan is planning to record an Armenian album at some point in her career.

Click here to view the embedded video.

“One of my biggest dreams is to represent my historicalhomeland, Armenia, at the Eurovision singing competition,” she said. “I intend to tour the United States when the circumstances allow me.”

Whether she is singing in Russian, English, or Armenian, Margarita “Arishata” Pozoyan’s divine vocals enchant her fans and anyone who comes across her angelic performances. Pozoyan is an Armenian jewel, and we are lucky to have her.

Pozoyan responded to our questions in Russian. We thank Gor Nazaryan and Tatevik Vardazaryan for the translation.

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The continuous collaboration between VivaCell-MTS and the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) has resulted in the opening of a third Creativity Lab that will host students from the Vanand Community School in the Armavir marz of Armenia. The lab is equipped with a smart board, modern computers, as well as special mobile furniture. A modern Library/Resource Center will also be functioning in Vanand.

The concept of Creativity Labs—technologically enhanced centers that encourage creativity—was first introduced in Armenia by COAF. VivaCell-MTS’s financial assistance and corporate social responsibility component allowed for these programs to create equal development opportunities for rural communities and promote the integration of informational and communication technologies into village schools.

The program that was launched a year ago has also been beneficial for the schoolchildren from the Sardarapat community in Armavir marz and the Arteni community in Aragatsotn marz. Creativity Labs provide a multifunctional environment fit for classes, training sessions, lectures, reading, discussions, projects, games, performances, and fun.

“Once given the opportunity to discover, children will exceed all your expectations. It is really important to turn the ordinary learning process into an adventurous creative experience. I would like to believe that the newly created environment will increase the children’s interest towards learning and will lead towards expected result,” said VivaCell-MTS general manager Ralph Yirikian.

Anoush Yedigaryan, the executive director of COAF, attaches great importance to the improved physical infrastructure and learning environment of educational institutions. “All those programs that COAF initiates and implements serve as a catalyst for youth empowerment and aim at raising the quality of education in rural schools,” she said. “This wonderful educational facility, which includes the creativity lab, library and resource center, will help not only those students who are eager to learn, but also all the teachers who wish to integrate the use of technologies into the teaching process and make it more interesting and content-rich.”

The newly opened Library/Resource Center enables increased access to information with the application of technologies and instills love towards reading among the schoolchildren. The center offers literature and professional development materials for a variety of target groups, such as children, adolescents, teachers/pedagogues, and community members at large. One of the distinctive features of the library is the availability of digital versions of textbooks, books, and other informational materials.

Parallel to the opening of the Creativity Lab/Library/Resource Center, COAF is launching “Healthy Nutrition” and “Dental Hygiene” programs in the Vanand School. A tooth-brushing station, Brushodrome, has been built in the school, and the school cafeteria has been equipped with necessary appliances and supplies. In the course of the new academic year, the elementary school students in Vanand will be served with hot and healthy meals, and the teachers and school nurses will be trained on proper oral and dental hygiene.

Earlier in 2013, as part of COAF’s Health Program activities, the Vanand Health Post was renovated and refurbished; in March 2014 a playground was constructed in the schoolyard; and just recently in May 2014 the Vanand School was included in the Schools for Health in Europe (SHE) Network.

The Children of Armenia Fund is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that employs community-led approaches aimed at improving the quality of life in rural Armenia, with a particular focus on children and youth. COAF’s target development areas are education, health, social, and economic development. COAF launched its programs in 2004, starting in 1 village and expanding to 22 villages in the Armavir and Aragatsotn marzes of Armenia. This became the inception of COAF’s innovative cluster village model approach. Eight of COAF’s beneficiary villages have undergone intensive interventions, while selected development programs have been carried out in the rest of the villages. More than 30,000 people have been impacted by COAF’s work. To learn more, visit www.coafkids.org and am.coafkids.org.

VivaCell-MTS (K-Telecom CJSC) is Armenia’s leading mobile operator, having the widest 2G/3.75G/4G network reach and spreading a wide range of voice and data services across Armenia. VivaCell-MTS drives innovation and aims at being at the forefront of any development serving the Armenian mobile communications market. For more information, visit www.vivacell.am. Mobile TeleSystems OJSC (“MTS”) is the leading telecommunications group in Russia and the CIS, offering mobile and fixed voice, broadband, pay TV, as well as content and entertainment services in one of the world’s fastest growing regions. Including its subsidiaries, the group services more than 100 million mobile subscribers. Since June 2000, MTS’s Level 3 ADRs have been listed on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol MBT). For more information, visit www.mtsgsm.com.

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YEREVAN—On June 14, the United States ambassador to Armenia, John A. Heffern, and members of the U.S. Embassy’s Helping Hands organization together with the Fuller Center for Housing Armenia (FCHA) helped to reconstruct the floor of the Tsitsikian Music School’s recital hall.

The U.S. Embassy and FCHA have been partnering since 2008. Every year, the embassy’s personnel join FCHA local and international volunteers to help low-income families build their own homes. This time, the partners joined to help the A. Tsitsikian Musical School. Helping Hands financed the construction materials, the FCHA organized the construction day, and in just one day, with the help of 30 volunteers, the new cement floor of the school’s recital hall was laid.

The Anahit Tsitsikian Music School was established 25 years ago and has seen successive generations of children learn music. The building, however, was getting old and there was no budget to renovate it. The children often gave concerts in such various venues as orphanages, nursing and retirement homes, and in villages. Last spring, the students performed at the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan.

On June 14, more than 30 people from the U.S. Embassy and FCHA gathered at the Anahit School. “We are thrilled and grateful that all these people took the time and effort to help us renovate our recital hall. I have not seen such well-organized construction work in a long time!” said Noune Shamakhian, the director of the Anahit Tsitsikian Music School. “With nice music in the background and cheerful mood the time flew very fast. It took only one day for the floor of the entire hall to be almost repaired. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Mr. Ambassador John A. Heffern and all those who worked that day. Mr. Ambassador’s joining everyone in this hard labor was a truly inspiring and humbling experience.”

The Fuller Center for Housing Armenia is a non-government, charitable organization that supports community development in the Republic of Armenia by assisting in building and renovating simple, decent, and affordable homes, as well as advocating the right to a decent shelter as a matter of conscience and action. FCHA provides long-term, interest-free loans to low-income families. The monthly repayments flow into a Revolving Fund, which is used to help more families, thereby providing a financial foundation for a sustainable community development effort. For more information, visit www.fullercenterarmenia.org.

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WATERTOWN, Mass.—St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School (SSAES) successfully completed its 30^th academic year last month. The Graduation Ceremonies were held on June 19 (Kindergarten) and June 20 (Elementary).

Grade 5 graduates with (L-R) Ardemis Megerdichian, Principal Houry Boyamian, Rev. Archpriest Antranig Baljian, Mark Boylan

On both days, Principal Houry Boyamian focused on the school’s achievements, especially on its STEM Initiative (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and the Graduating Class Trip to Armenia. She thanked the faculty, administrative staff, PTO, parent volunteers, school board and committees, the St. Stephen’s Church board of trustees, Rev. Fr. Archpriest Antranig Baljian, as well as all the organizations and individuals that have contributed to the advancement of the school.

On June 19, she honored three educators: Preschool director Maral Orchanian and

(L-R) Principal Houry Boyamian, Araxie Poladian, and Rev. Archpriest Antranig Baljian. Poladian is retiring after serving as a preschool teacher for 44 years in Armenian schools; 15 of those years were at SSAES.

Nursery I teacher Anna Kupelian, who received the school’s Golden Logo for their 15 years of dedicated service; and Araxie Poladian, who will be retiring after 21 years of dedicated service at SSAES as a Nursery II teacher. Poladian has taught in Armenian schools for a total of 44 years, and received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Armenian Prelacy signed by Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, as well as a Proclamation from Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. Boyamian announced that the school has established the Araxie Poladian Scholarship Fund in her honor. Three former students, Serena Hajjar, Armine Afeyan (on June 19), and Nairi Krafian (on June 20), presented their memories of Mrs. Poladian’s Nursery II classroom. Readers who would like to express their appreciation to Poladian may send their contribution to the school at 47 Nichols Avenue, Watertown, MA 02472 (Attention: Araxie Poladian Scholarship Fund).

Principal Houry Boyamian and Heather Krafian honoring Ardemis Megerdichian for her 15 years of dedicated service as Grades 1-5 Armenian teacher.

On June 20, Boyamian also honored Ardemis Megerdichian with the school’s Golden Logo for her 15 years of dedicated service as Grades 1-5 Armenian teacher. She focused on Megerdichian’s important role in developing the students’ sense of national identity and pride in their heritage. The elementary school graduation program was dedicated to “our Elders,” as His Holiness Aram I has proclaimed 2014 “The Year of our Elders.” The second part of the program was dedicated to Armenia. The elementary students presented both themes with poetry recitals and chorale songs, followed by a video presentation of the Grade 5 Class Trip to Armenia, coordinated with great expertise by Megerdichian.

On both days, Archpriest Antranig Baljian expressed his appreciation to the administration and faculty for their dedication and effort.

On June 19, 27 students graduated from Kindergarten. They are Vartan Arakelian, Andre Bashirians, Frieda Bilezikian, Julia Chapian, Lara Chekijian, Jake Gobbi, Sonya Haleblian, Gacia Haserjian, Saro Iskenderian, Anais Kahvejian, Lea Karapetian, Harout Keledjian, Michael Mahtesyan, Samuel Makarian, Narineh Mardiros, Sarine Markarian, Zulal Merdinoglu, Gassia Minassian, Nareg Minassian, Nicholas Nalbandyan, Arin Nazarian, Vicken Panian, Alla Petrosyan, Lory Simon, Arinne Stepanian, Sophia Tinkjian, and Armen Vartanian.

On June 20, 10 students graduated from the Elementary School. They are Antranig Atinizian, Isabella Balian, Berj Chekijian, Lori Ganjian, Shant Karamousayan, Knar Krafian, Elizabeth Krmzian, Ani Ourfalian, Garen Sahakian, and Gacia Vosbigian.

The 2014 Kindergarten graduates

Awards 2014

Grade 5 Awards for Excellence in Armenian Studies:

Prelacy Award: Isabella Balian, Lori Ganjian, Gacia Vosbigian, and Shant Karamousayan.

Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Award: Berj Chekijian.

St. Stephen’s School Award: Elizabeth Krmzian, Garen Sahakian, Ani Ourfalian, Knar Krafian, and Antranig Atinizian.

The Presidential Award for Academic Excellence: Isabella Balian and Knar Krafian. (The purpose of this award is to recognize the academic success of students who have excelled in their studies and who have earned high scores on standardized tests.)

The Presidential Award for Academic Achievement: Lori Ganjian and Gacia Vosbigian. (The purpose of this award is to reward students who work hard and give their best effort in school.)

American Citizenship Award: Antranig Atinizian. (This award recognizes students who show a positive attitude toward classmates, school, and community; display an understanding and appreciation of civic responsibility; and possess strength of character and the courage to do what is right.)

Grade 5 Special Strengths:

Achievements in Mathematics: Berj Chekijian, Ani Ourfalian, and Shant Karamousayan.

Achievements in Writing Composition: Elizabeth Krmzian.

Achievements in Social Studies: Garen Sahakian.

Achievements in Science: Antranig Atinizian.

ARS Essay Contest:

2^nd Place: Elizabeth Krmzian.

3^rd Place: Ani Ourfalian, Lori Ganjian.

Nishan and Arshalouys Scholarship Fund for Music and Art (Grade 4, $200 each):

Music: Nareg Minassian.

Art: Talar Panossian.

Anahid Kazazian Scholarship ($100 each):

Chris Ashjian and Benjamin Surenian.

Perfect Attendance Award:

Aren Panian (Grade 2).

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass.—The Cambridge-Yerevan Sister City Association (CYSCA) recently announced the establishment of a new Preventive Dentistry Program that was approved and adopted into the curriculum at the Yerevan State Medical University’s Therapeutic and Family Dentistry Department. The public’s support of this project—Armenia’s first class of dental school graduates that are trained in preventive dentistry—will be critical to its success.

Residents of Armenia, a country with an ancient and rich cultural history, have long been without access to preventive dentistry. Over the past several years, CYSCA has been working with the university to institute a Preventive Dentistry-Dental Hygiene course in Yerevan. The course, which is the first of its kind in Armenia, begins in September 2014, and will teach both the theoretical and clinical components of the American dental hygiene program to dental students.

Karina Matevosyan

Karina Matevosyan, MA, RDH, an accomplished and experienced clinician from Cambridge, Mass., will be relocating to Yerevan for a three-year term to spearhead this exciting program on CYSCA’s behalf. She has taught at dental clinics at the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene and Palm Beach State College in Florida.

Currently, there are 50 students enrolled in the course, and each student requires two sets of instruments to complete the practical component of their studies. Upon graduating and joining the workforce, these students will also require the instruments to begin practicing preventive dentistry in Armenia. The total cost of the necessary instruments for each student is $500.

Donors are needed to help procure instruments for dental students this fall. A donation in any amount will help to ensure that each student has the tools to complete his/her studies and begin the practice of preventive dentistry in Armenia. In addition, CYSCA will match up to 100 percent of each donation received through July 2014. Contributions are tax-deductible. Checks can be made out to “CYSCA” (with “Dental Instruments Project” in the memo line) and mailed to CYSCA, P.O. Box 382591, Cambridge, MA 02238, preferably by July 20, 2014.

CYSCA, an award-winning sister city organization, was founded in 1987 through the Cambridge Peace Commission. Over the past 27 years, CYSCA has been instrumental in fostering an exchange of ideas and competencies between the cities of Cambridge, Mass., and Yerevan, Armenia. Numerous professional, teacher, and student exchange programs, as well as humanitarian aid projects, have made a huge impact on the lives of thousands. For more information, visit www.cysca.org.

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On Sat., July 12, Anoush Krafian competed for the Waltham Track Club at the USA Track & Field (USATF) Region 1 Junior Olympic Championships and National qualifier. The championships were held at Michael P. Richards Field at the Elliot Athletic Complex at Fitchburg State University in Fitchburg, Mass.

Anoush Krafian

Krafian is 14 years old, but competed in the 15-16 Girls Division due to USATF regulations. She competed in the 100-meter hurdles, high jump, and long jump. Krafian qualified for Nationals in the 100-meter hurdles, with a PR of 16.94, earning her 3^rd place, after 3 competitive heats and a final. Krafian also competed in the high jump, earning her 6^th place with a jump of 4’11” just missing qualification for Nationals with 15 jumpers and an 8^th-place finish in the long jump with a jump of 14’ 11” with 15 jumpers. Krafian did not compete in the multi-event this year, as was coming off a fractured back injury sustained during the winter months. The 15-16 age group now competes in the heptathlon. Krafian chose to focus on the three open events for a transition back to the track rather than seven. She is looking forward to running for the Belmont High School Marauders this upcoming track season.

The Waltham Track Club produced 25 national qualifiers in 35 events. The club achieved 31 top 6 medals, including 8 1^st-place finishes, 6 2^nd-place finishes and 7 3^rd-place finishes. The top 5 in each event and top 2 in the multi events qualified for the National Junior Olympic Championships in Houston, Texas, from July 21-27.

Krafian is a member of the AYF Greater Boston “Nejdeh” Junior Chapter, Boston Homenetmen, an Abaka Performing Arts dance student, and a St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School alumna. Though this young middle school athlete qualified for Nationals, her heart remains at Camp Haiastan. She will forgo her sports aspirations this summer again to attend the first session of Camp Haiastan with her Armenian friends from near and far. There is plenty of time to compete in the future, and Krafian wanted to spend her summer at the happiest place on Earth. Anoush Krafian is the daughter of Ara and Heather Krafian of Belmont, Mass.

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On May 27, the Telemedicine Program was presented and launched at the Medical Science Library of Armenia in Yerevan. Khoren Bandazian, the chairman of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund U.S. Eastern Region Affiliate’s Board of Directors, opened the event by presenting the Fund’s initiatives in support of Armenia and Karabagh. He noted that since the Fund’s inception in 1992, it has developed and implemented numerous projects in various fields ranging from education to construction. Some of the most remarkable moments, he said, were the opening of the Stepanakert Policlinic in 2004 and the medical training of its staff; the implementation of various education projects involving the expertise of foreign specialists, mainly from the professional network of Dr. Gevorg Yaghjyan; and the online medical diagnostic session held in New York in 2009.

(L-R): Irina Lazarian, executive director, and Khoren Bandazian, chairman, Hayastan All-Armenian Fund U.S. Eastern Region Affiliate

The presentation continued with remarks by Irina Lazarian, the executive director of the U.S. Eastern Region Affiliate, stressed that the Fund would continue to concentrate on three directions: education through online conferences, continuous medical education (particularly doctors’ training at regional hospitals), and online medical diagnostics and consultations.

Dr. Gevorg Yaghjyan

Dr. Yaghjyan, a member of the U.S. Eastern Affiliate based in New York, as well as the project manager of the affiliate’s “Hyebridge Telehealth” program, added that the Telemedicine Program had been operating in Karabagh since 2007. The treatment of cardio-vascular system diseases and cancer, which are the main causes of mortality in Armenia, were going to be the primary focus of the web conferences, he said. The program is expected to involve leading Armenian doctors from Russia and the United States.

Utilizing the Rostelecom’s “Video Call” service, the event concluded with a web conference with the Medical Center of Kapan. Modern treatment methods of cerebral palsy were the major topic of the conference. It was conducted by the chief neurological surgeon of Armenia, Dr. Ruben Fanarjyan.

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WATERTOWN, Mass.—Whether it’s posting your calendar item or promoting a cultural venue, look no further than Tatoul Badalian. He’s a community catalyst who works in more ways than an Energizer bunny.

Tatoul Badalian has helped turn Amaras Art Alliance into a genuine community gem.

The calendar started in 2001, aptly named “MENK,” which denotes togetherness and unity in a super-modified way. Anything you want posted can be found here under one convenient take. It’s brought our splinter groups together and put us all on more solid ground.

In an age when social calendars are yearning to breathe free, Badalian’s MENK has become a breath of fresh air. Keeping track of dozens of Armenian activities and passing them along to a readership of thousands is no simple task, but Badalian seems to be handling it with a deep-rooted sense of commitment.

“There was a time when we used to have one or two public events per week,” Badalian recalls. “Now, there are days where the options are far more abundant. As times change, so do we.”

Getting everybody’s notice any which way it comes, and disseminating it into a more readable format each week, takes organization—especially when you consider all the churches and organizations in New England and the multifaceted roles they each play.

“You might say the calendar was a natural extension of my involvement in different community projects,” Badalian pointed out. “I think this is where the real fun is, where you drive a sense of belonging.”

Badalian says our organizations are doing a great job of adding bells and whistles to their events, which keeps the calendar lively.

The online service he’s using was recently enhanced with a new address, www.brownbearsw.com/cal/menk, or you can Google “MENK Calendar.” It continues to be published each Wednesday and remains under the umbrella of Hamazkayin-Boston.

“Volunteer work has always excited me and I’ve been involved with it ever since my high school days,” he tells us. “In the 1980’s, we were raising children so I was not so involved. When I went back in the 90s, things had changed.”

In 1990, on came Amaras Art Alliance (AAA), a cornucopia of activity that fits the mood from culture to community service, soon to celebrate its 25^thanniversary.

Aside from supporting aspiring performers to achieve their potential, Amaras creates opportunities to observe, get involved, and enjoy the traditions and customs of our diverse culture, from folk to fine art.

“To fulfill our mission, we organize events, activities, and programs in the sphere of arts and education,” Badalian says. “The core remains dedicated to the performing arts with a keen focus on children. While we embrace the beauty and charm of all cultures, our spotlight is on the heritage of the Armenian and American people.”

Over the past decade alone, more than 50 programs have been organized under the Amaras name. Badalian calls it a “microcosm” of our community’s cultural life. The name is derived from an old Armenian monastery in Nagorno-Karabagh where Mesrob Mashdots founded a school.

Today, Amaras is the premiere organization working with professional artists and musicians in getting them established and entrenched into everyday life. Badalian remains the self-engrained webmaster running AmarasOnline.com,and invites readers to take a peek.

A huge concentration is placed on Erebouni Dance School for children with a dynamic director named Arman Mnatsakanyan, who yearns to build this into one of the country’s finest ensembles.

Recently, the Longy School of Music in Cambridge featured a concert by talented children, followed a week later by an evening of songs and poems. Featured was talented singer Margar Yeghiazarian, composer Gegham Margarian, poet Avik Derents, and Ani Avakian Arakelian, noted for her unique representation of Armenian poems.

“There was a time when you could not keep me from participating in a good picnic, both as a worker and one who enjoyed the delicious food,” Badalian says. “Today, I’m working on a more serious area, although I still go and have my shish kebobs at fairs and bazaars.”

The more serious side is the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry (ABMDR). Badalian has become a true crusader for the cause. He’d rather starve to death than see some child suffer the consequences. Or anybody for that matter.

Right now, the priority in his life isn’t a shish, but rather the Walk of Life on Sept. 27 in Watertown to help the Armenian Bone Marrow Registry. For the third year, Badalian has taken an initiative to sound the call for help.

“I call this serious because blood-related disorders such as leukemia have devastating effects upon families and entire communities,” he says. “This particular cause fights to find stem cell matches for those in need. Being an Armenian actually helps because it’s easier to find a match among your ethnic group. ABMDR is a global player. It’s one of the unique organizations where Armenians and diasporans meet on equal footing and represent all Armenians of the world.”

For further information on this, log on to ABMDR New England.

Badalian has the unbridled support of his wife Varteni and daughter Narini. Both have done their share over the years and have been an integral component of these endeavors.

“We’ve come a long way since those days we went around putting flyers on car windshields in getting the word out to people,” he reflects. “And it’s only getting bigger and better in this age of technology.”

Badalian also makes available his personal e-mail address (tbadalian@aol.com) because it lets him respond quickly to requests and questions.

He goes on to say how these two tools—MENK and AmarasOnline—are flexible and can be expanded to meet the needs of an ever-growing community.

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YEREVAN—The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently indicated its support for the “Technetium 99m Medical Isotope Production Project” at the newly formed Medical Isotope Production Division of the Yerevan Physics Institute (YerPhI). The research and production program will use an 18 MeV (million electron-volt) proton beam of an IBAC18 cyclotron particle accelerator to be installed at a newly renovated facility of the physics institute by the end of 2014. The Technetium is produced by irradiating Molybdenum with a proton beam from the cyclotron.

(L-R) Electronics engineer Vladislav Eganov, Ph.D. student Hripsime Mkrtchyan, YerPhI’s Medical Isotope Laboratory leader Dr. Albert Avedisyan, and scientist Rupen Dalakyan

The C18 IBA Cyclotron to be installed at YerPhI Isotope Laboratory by end of 2014.

Technetium (99mTe) is the most widely used isotope for medical imaging today, with more than 30 million diagnostic medical imaging scans every year worldwide. When injected into patients, it produces radiation similar to X-rays, which are used to image internal organs. This isotope has a half-life of six hours, meaning that half of the remaining isotope decays every six hours. Thus, 94 percent of the Technetium injected into a patient decays within 24 hours, resulting in minimal radiation exposure. Exposure is about the same as from an X-ray.

YerPhI’s Medical Isotope Laboratory leader Dr. Avedisyan explains the Technetium extraction setup to Dr. Michael Davoudian, the general director of APAGA Technologies.

According to the Scientific Center of Radiation Medicine and Burns at the Armenian Ministry of Health, the need in Armenia for the isotope 99mTe is 5,000 doses per year. Due to its rapid decay, and the fact that it must be shipped from abroad, there is only enough to treat 1,000 patients per year. Thus, 80 percent of Armenian patients have no access to this medical imaging technology, and there is a need for a non-stop supply of 99mTe.

The goal of the Isotope Production Division of the Yerevan Physics Institute is to develop the technology of direct 99mTe production to cover the need of Armenian clinics and their patients. Senior scientists at the Yerevan Physics Institute, together with recent physics and engineering graduates and graduate students, are preparing the facilities for the manufacture, purification, and testing of this isotope in a newly equipped laboratory at the institute’s facilities in Yerevan. Special efforts are being implemented to assure quality and safety. This project is one of many bringing the benefits of science to the Armenian public.

Gevorg Harutunyan performs isotope analysis on the gamma ray scanner.

(L-R) Engineer Andranik Manukyan and students Davit Aloyan and Gevorg Harutunyan from the State Engineering University of Armenia/Polytechnic.

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Ayrk, in Gegharkunik marz, about 30 km. south of Vartenis, to the south-east of Lake Sevan, is a village of about 50 households. It is reachable from Vartenis by a bad but passable road.

The village of Ayrk in the distance

The origin of the village is unknown, but in the cemetery next to its two small churches, Sourp Grigor and Sourp Astvatsatsin, are khatchkars (stone crosses) that date to the 7^th-10^th centuries.

Ayrk, Sourp Gevorg Church, 19th century

Approaching the village, a few roofs over the scattered houses were visible in the distance, together with some destroyed buildings. We wondered if there was really anything there and if continuing on would be worthwhile. An approaching driver assured us that there were two churches in the village, so we proceeded.

The village is poor; most of its young people have left for work in Russia. Current villagers are primarily refugees from Azerbaijan, with a few descendants of survivors of the Armenian Genocide from Western Armenia. The primary economic activity is raising animals, and farming grain and potatoes. The climate is too cold to grow fruit. In the valley below Ayrk is a milk-processing facility that processes and delivers the village’s milk to market.

We arrived at the 2 churches, about 100 yards apart, in mid-afternoon with bright sun,

Ayrk, Sourp Gevorg Church, 19th century

a cool breeze, and a few beautiful white fluffy clouds floating overhead. The two churches are small, simple rectangular buildings, about the size of my kitchen, and are not ornate apart from the interesting khatchkars embedded in their walls. The ground is rocky with bright, short green grass speckled with very small, bright blue flowers. The green grass extends to the surrounding mountains and the shallow valley below.

The field stones and khatchkars in the cemetery are covered with fluorescent orange-colored lichen. It is one of the most beautiful, spectacular scenes I’ve seen in Armenia, or anywhere else for that matter. One of the villagers, an elderly gentleman, was seated on a nearby rock watching his flock of sheep. After a few words of greeting, it was as if we had known each other all our lives. He was a refugee from Baku.

The old Armenian name for the village was “Karakert,” meaning “stone built.” Sometime around the 15^th century, Turks settled in the area and renamed the village “Dashkert” (meaning “stone built,” the same meaning as its previous Armenian name). Many, if not most, of the Armenians had left. After the Armenian Genocide, some refugees from Western Armenia resettled there, perhaps during the first Armenian Republic established in 1918. During the first republic and the subsequent Soviet era, though the village remained within Armenia’s borders, it retained its Turkish name due to the presence of its Turkish/Azeri inhabitants. As this was still part of Armenia, the Turkish residents, as far as I understand, left the churches and cemetery undisturbed. Around 1988, during the Karabagh conflict, the Turks left. Armenian refugees arriving from Azerbaijan used the abandoned Turkish houses as sources of building material to build or repair their own homes. The village youth erected the khatchkars, which over the centuries had fallen, placing them on solid cement bases. The current Armenian government renamed the village Ayrk.

A gentleman from Ayrk

This is a beautiful site, well worth visiting if one is a bit adventuresome. It’s about a 2-2.5-hour drive from Yerevan, depending on the driver and car. The road to Ayrk runs along the south shore of Lake Sevan, passing the beautiful 9^th-century Ayrevank monastery, which is right off the highway, and the Noraduz Cemetery with its spectacular medieval khatchkars. The Noraduz cemetery is a 10-minute diversion from the main highway along Lake Sevan’s south coast and has visitor amenities.

Ayrk could become a tourist attraction providing at least some help for its economy. This superb and unvisited site should be promoted and, moreover, protected as a cultural preserve, perhaps under UNESCO auspices.

Ayrk, Sourp Astvatsatsin Church, 19th century

Ayrk, Sourp Astvatsatsin Church, 19th century

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YEREVAN—On June 30, the American University of Armenia (AUA) launched the first phase of the “AUA for Syrian Armenians” campaign, which aims to raise money to provide valuable educational resources to the displaced Syrian-Armenian population in Armenia through the AUA Extension Program.

In 2012, AUA launched this assistance program, which allows Syrian-Armenian refugees to take up to two AUA Extension courses free of charge.

In 2012, AUA launched this assistance program, which allows Syrian-Armenian refugees to take up to two AUA Extension courses free of charge. The program’s popularity has since grown at an unprecedented rate, proving that it provides a valuable resource to the Syrian-Armenian population in Armenia. Since the program’s inception, AUA has already offered over 1,000 course slots free of charge to more than 500 Syrian Armenians. Many of these individuals have referred others to the program, returned to take additional courses, or enrolled in AUA’s degree programs. However, due to a lack of financial resources, the program has been put on hold until enough money is raised to continue it.

“It is both a moral and humanitarian imperative at this juncture to do everything we can to ensure that Syrian-Armenian refugees feel welcomed in Armenia, and that their resettlement be facilitated to the greatest extent possible,” said AUA President Dr. Bruce M. Boghosian. “The American University of Armenia is proud to offer assistance in the form of courses specially designed to help with the resettlement process, to provide training for Syrian-Armenian professionals, and to enable Syrian-Armenian students to apply for university admission in Armenia.”

Through the assistance program, all courses in AUA Extension are open to Syrian Armenians who arrived in Armenia in or after April 2012, when the crisis in Syria escalated. Course offerings include language instruction, professional trainings, and preparatory courses for the standardized tests that are necessary for applying to many universities, including AUA.

The director of AUA Extension, Dr. Arpie Balian, explains, “Supporting the ‘AUA for Syrian Armenians’ campaign means contributing to something that has been proven useful. This is an investment in a Syrian Armenian’s future. Our program is particularly helpful for those Syrian Armenians who have chosen to stay here in Armenia. For those who will eventually return to their homes in Syria or go elsewhere, the program helps alleviate anxiety while teaching them English language skills and other knowledge and skills in management that will be beneficial wherever they go. It appears that most of the Syrian Armenians that have come to AUA Extension are those who will stay in Armenia. We are helping them get back on their feet through courses that will contribute to building their future here.”

“AUA for Syrian Armenians” is a crowdsourcing campaign that aims to gather a large number of donations of any size. Contributions of any level will have an impact. To support the AUA for Syrian Armenians campaign, click here.

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Members of the Boston Armenian community this month gathered at the home of Ara and Heather Krafian for a fundraiser for former Watertown State Senator Warren Tolman. Tolman, who is running for the Democratic nomination for Massachusetts attorney general in September, has a record of support for the Armenian community, its organizations, and schools that dates back more than 20 years.

Tolman with members of the Boston Armenian community

Aram Kaligian of the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Eastern Massachusetts spoke of some of the important legislation that Tolman has written and passed, including the 1998 Genocide Curriculum bill for the teaching of the history of the Armenian Genocide in Massachusetts public schools. It was after Tolman helped defeat efforts to include Turkish government denialist websites in the curriculum guide that the Assembly of Turkish American Associations sued the Massachusetts Department of Education in federal court. The lawsuit was opposed by current Attorney General Martha Coakley, and the suit and subsequent appeals were dismissed by the courts as being without merit.

Tolman then presented the guests with some of the major initiatives that he wants to pursue if elected attorney general. These include calling an annual summit of Massachusetts college leaders to fight campus sexual assault and reinvigorating the Consumer Protection Division of the attorney general’s office, ensuring that residents are made aware that they have an advocate if they are taken advantage of as consumers. He also stressed the need to have sufficient facilities to treat those suffering in the recent opiate abuse crisis and to promote the introduction of smart gun technology to reduce accidental gun deaths. During the Q&A session, Middlesex District Attorney Peter Koutoujian stressed the importance of the community supporting those, like Tolman, who have always been there for Armenians.

Warren Tolman grew up in Watertown and has worked with the Armenian community and the ANC of Eastern Massachusetts since his first political campaign. He wrote and passed the first state resolution calling on the United States to recognize the Republic of Mountainous Karabagh and hosted the annual Genocide Commemoration in the Massachusetts State House chamber after the retirement of House Speaker George Keverian.

Armenians in Massachusetts are encouraged to volunteer and contribute to the Committee to Elect Warren Tolman. Contributions may be mailed to the ANC of Eastern Massachusetts, 47 Nichols Avenue, Watertown MA 02472, and volunteers may contact the campaign by visiting http://warrentolman.com.

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Albert Sarkissian

Albert Sarkissian was born on Feb. 12, 1917, in an Armenian community that was then in Russian Ashkabad. Albert was the son of Shooshanik Hovsepian (born in Shushi) and Vaghinak Sarkissian (born in Tabriz). Albert and his sister, Seda, were orphaned at a young age. Although they lived with family, they needed to learn to fend for themselves very early in life. Albert joined the army at age 16 and served as a communications specialist. He spent most of his childhood in Iran where he met his future wife, Lena Aganoor.

Albert and Lena were married on Aug. 6, 1943 and were inseparable partners for 65 years. They had three children—Susan, Sofia, and Leo. Collectively there are seven grandchildren, several of whom are married: Susan and Ray Bagdasarian, with children, Laura and Greg Srebotnik and Robert and Karen Bagdasarian, and great-grandchildren Nicole and Matthew; Sofie and Marv Gough, with children, Kristen and Thomas Aikman, and great grandson, Noah; Greg Gough; Alissa and Michael Ray, and great grandsons Xavier and Xander; and Leo and Mary Sarkissian, with children Heather and Matt Saforrian and Hailey Sarkissian.

Albert worked diligently his entire life, always taking advantage of educational opportunities, even when working full-time. The opportunity to further his family’s and his personal education was a driving factor in his decision to move to New York City in 1958 with his wife and three young children.

He believed strongly in education. In New York, he attended RCA institute while working full-time, so that he could advance himself as an electronics engineer. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the New York Institute of Technology and later, as a graduate, was an instructor at the successor to the RCA Institute. Albert served as vice president and plant manager of an electronics firm in Queens, N.Y., for many years. In the early 1970’s, he established and became the president of Hybrid Semiconductors, Inc. The U.S government was one of the company’s primary customers.

In retirement in the 1990’s, he and his wife left New York to live close to the Armenian community in Watertown, Mass. There they attended many events and seminars hosted by the church, the Armenian Library and Museum of America (ALMA), the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), the Armenian Cultural Foundation (ACF), and other organizations.

Although his career was in electronics, in retirement Albert returned to literature and journalism in his volunteer and personal activities. As a “Researcher of Armenian Studies,” he authored and published a book titled, Contemplations, Free Masons and British Anti-Armenian Activities in 2003. He sent copies of the book to Armenian libraries and groups across the world.

For years he was active in the Armenian church, serving on the board of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in New York and attending many church national assemblies. Albert was a member of St. Stephan’s Armenian Church, active in the Armenian Revisionary Federation (ARF), and was a volunteer at ALMA and the Hairenik newspaper. He felt strongly about Armenian independence and Armenian education. He and his wife traveled to Armenia twice in later years.

Albert always had time for his family. One of his major roles was “chauffer,” dropping off and picking up his children, wife, and sister-in-law often on a daily basis. He was protective of his daughters and would not want them driving with friends (so, he would often drive them to the mall or the movies, and wait in the car if need be, reading or doing his engineering homework).
In addition to his family, he was fortunate to have many good friends, both from the Armenian community and work. He was a man of strong principles, reflected in his commitment to his Armenian heritage, his adopted country, his family, church, and friends.

The post Obituary: Albert Sarkissian (1917-2014) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Last month, the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, Washington, D.C. chapters, featured world-acclaimed pianist Hayk Arsenyan at the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia.

(L-R) Armenian Embassy First Secretary Karen Israyelyan, Hayk Arsenyan, Jake Bournazian, and Louisa Baghdasarian

Ani Lodge commander Jake Bournazian and Dikranouhi Otyag commander Louisa Baghdasarian opened the program and welcomed the packed hall. Arsenyan brought the audience through a majestic musical performance that featured the works of famous Armenian composers Hovhaness, Khachaturian, and Komitas. Arsenyan also performed a beautiful rendition Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliette” and delighted the crowd with Schubert’s “Piano Sonata.” His performance was passionately concluded with Khachaturian’s iconic “Sabre Rattle,” which brought the audience to their feet in magnificent applause.

“I hope that today’s concert will not only be a tribute to our heroes who gave their lives for the independence of the Republic of Armenia, but will also be an inspiration for all those Armenians who, even far away from their motherland, continue to support and assist our brothers and sisters in Armenia,” said Baghdasarian.

Arsenyan is a New York-based pianist-composer and native of Armenia. He has appeared in numerous recitals in the U.S., Armenia, and the Middle East, including Carnegie Hall. He teaches at New York University and holds a doctor of musical arts degree from the University of Iowa. At age 11, he made his orchestral debut performing his own Requiem for piano and orchestra.

Armenian Embassy first secretary Karen Israyelyan and third secretary Anna Naghdalyan attended the performance. “The Knights of Vartan appreciate the Armenian Embassy’s willingness to provide this prestigious venue for this event, so that we can feature and support performances by our musical artists for the greater Washington, D.C. Armenian community to enjoy,” said Bournazian.

Following the concert, the members of the Ani Lodge and Dikranouhi Otyag gathered for a special dinner, where former commander Margie Satian was honored for her steadfast leadership.

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WORCESTER, Mass.—The Strassler Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Clark University will host the Third International Graduate Students’ Conference on Genocide Studies, on “The State of Research 100 Years after the Armenian Genocide,” from April 9-12, 2015, in cooperation with the Danish Institute for International Studies, Department of Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Copenhagen. The conference will provide a forum for doctoral students to present their research projects to peers and established scholars.

The keynote speaker will be Professor Eric Weitz, dean of humanities and arts and professor of history at the City College of New York. The conference will include discussion and comments from senior genocide scholars Cecilie Stokholm Bank, senior researcher at Danish Institute for International Studies; Matthias Bjørnlund, lecturer at the Danish Institute for Study Abroad; Lerna Ekmekçioglu, McMillan-Stewart Career Development Assistant Professor of History at MIT; Donna-Lee Frieze, research assistant, Deakin University Australia; and Christian Axboe Nielson, professor in the department of culture and society, Aarhus University; as well as Strassler Center faculty Taner Akçam, Kaloosdian-Mugar Chair in Armenian Genocide Studies; Debórah Dwork, center director and Rose Professor of Holocaust History; and Thomas Kühne, director of Graduate Studies and Strassler Family Chair in the Study of Holocaust History.

This interdisciplinary conference will reflect the full range of issues, concepts, and methods in current genocide studies research. The keynote address and a focus on papers that explore the Armenian Genocide are planned in commemoration of the 100^th anniversary of 1915. Papers that put the Armenian Genocide in a broader perspective and examine the concept of the Ottoman genocide carried out against minority ethnic-religious groups, including Assyrians and Greeks, are especially encouraged. Topics may include forceful mass deportations, expulsions, and massacres during the late Ottoman period. Also invited are pertinent applications from students working on the Holocaust as well as those who focus on genocides in Africa, Asia, Australia, and America, and on the aftermath and collective memorialization of genocides.

Paper proposals from graduate students and recent post-docs (since 2012) across all disciplines are invited. The costs of travel, accommodation, registration, and meals will be covered for applicants whose papers are accepted. Interested applicants should submit for consideration: 1) a short curriculum vitae (one page maximum) including name, address, e-mail, and telephone number; 2) the title and an abstract of the paper (approximately 300 words, one page maximum, in English), addressing its basic arguments, its sources, and its relation to your dissertation project (for instance, summary, proposal, or chapter of the dissertation); and 3) a brief letter from your advisor indicating your enrollment in a doctoral program. Also invited are applications for complete panels consisting of three to four papers. Such submissions should include a panel description of approximately 500 words. The deadline for applications is Aug. 15, 2014. E-mail materials to StrasslerGradConference@clarku.edu. For more information, e-mail the conference organizer, Dr. Sarah Cushman, at scushman@clarku.edu, or the conference director, Taner Akҫam, at takcam@clarku.edu. For information on previous conferences, visit www.clarku.edu/departments/holocaust/conferences/chgsgraduate/.

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Garmiryan to Be Responsible for Promotion of Western Armenian

The Armenian Communities Department recently announced the appointment of Ani Garmiryan as senior program officer, responsible for the promotion of Western Armenian—a priority for the department, as highlighted in its recent Five-Year Programming Plan. Garmiryan will be in charge of managing diasporan school grants, the teacher preparation program, and other projects aimed at strengthening the Western Armenian language.

She will join the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation on Sept. 1, bringing with her years of experience working in multilingual education and developing innovative pedagogical approaches. Garmiryan has written and lectured extensively on the subject of language preservation through education, with a particular focus on Western Armenian.

“We are very privileged to have Ms. Garmiryan join us,” said Razmik Panossian, director of the Armenian Communities Department. “Her superb knowledge and experience set her apart from a strong field of candidates and she will undoubtedly be an asset to the department as it continues to support students, teachers, schools, and other organizations to help safeguard a strong Armenian language and culture.”

Martin Essayan, the trustee responsible for the Armenian Communities Department, added, “The appointment is an important step forward for the department in securing the expertise to carry out its mission: to create a viable future for the Armenian people in which its culture and language are preserved and valued.”

Garmiryan was born and raised in Istanbul and has lived in Italy, Germany, England, France, and most recently in the United States. She received a master of arts in linguistics and pedagogy from the University of Heidelberg, Germany, where she also worked as a research assistant in second language acquisition. She earned a master of education in the field of educational leadership from the Bank Street College, New York, known for its progressive educational approach.

She is the founder of MGNIG, an educational bilingual (Armenian-French) workshop in Paris, and has been a lecturer in the methodology of second language acquisition at the University of Paris III since 1994. She officiated at the Hovnanian School in New Jersey since 1997, first as a curriculum coordinator for the Armenian language, and as principal since 2000. She has published numerous articles on bilingual education.

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