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ARMENIAN GENERAL BENEVOLENT UNION
AGBU ARMENIA NEWSLETTER
Yerevan, Armenia
IN THIS ISSUE
 Canonization of the Armenian
Genocide Martyrs (p. 1, 2)
 Armenian Genocide 100 (p. 36)
Issue 33, January - June, 2015
THE CANONIZATION OF MARTYRS OF THE ARMENIAN
GENOCIDE AT MOTHER SEE OF HOLY ETCHMIADZIN
 AGBU 88th General Assembly
in Armenia (p. 7-20)
 AGBU President Visits Armenia (p. 21)
 Berge Setrakian Meets with
AUA Students and Staff (p. 22)
 TUMOxAGBU Partnership
Takes Off in Gyumri (p. 23)
 AUA Commencement Ceremony 2015 (p. 24)
 AGBU Central Board Member
Noubar Afeyan at AUA (p. 25)
 AGBU Armenian Virtual College (p. 26, 27)
 Final Round of the 9th Republican Chess Tournament (p. 28)
 AGBU Boghos Noubar Award
to YSU Students (p. 29)
 DurDe! And EGAM Representatives in Armenia (p. 30)
 Artsakh Chamber Orchestra
Performs in USA (p. 31)
 Armenian Youth at
“Nutcracker” Festival (p. 31)
 Haykazounq Ensemble Marks
25th Anniversary (p. 32)
 Hovsep Sarafian Awarded (p.
32)
 AGBU Yerevan Scouts (p. 33,
34)
 Aleppo: Troublesome Days (p.
35)
 From New Jersey to Vanadzor
and Talin (p. 35)
On April 23rd, as part of the events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide, the Canonization Service of the Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide took
palce at the St. Trdat Open Altar of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin presided over
by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians and
His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia.
The Ceremony began at 17:00 and went on until 19:15, symbolizing the year of the
Armenian Genocide. The last time the Armenian Apostolic Church held a Canonization Ceremony was over 400 years ago. The Ceremony was attended by high ranking
state officials headed by the President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan.
Also present at the ceremony were Diocesan Primates and clergy of the Armenian
Apostolic Church, members of the Supreme Spiritual Council, Delegations of worldwide Dioceses, benefactors, social and cultural figures, representatives of the diplomatic corp, international organizations, heads and delegations of Sister Churches and
representatives of Ecumenical Oranizations, who had traveled to Armenia on the
occasion of the commemorative events of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide and the Canonization Ceremony.
The Armenian General
Benevolent Union (AGBU) funded the
organisation and the online live stream of
the the Canonization Ceremony.
“AGBU has the honor of being a part of
this historic spiritual event for all Armenians. Life streaming of the Ceremony allowed people living in the Diaspora to become a part of this unprecedented event”,
said AGBU Interim Director Hovig Eordekian.
(continued on p. 2)
Page 1
ISSUE 33, JANUARY - JUNE, 2015
THE CANONIZATION OF MARTYRS OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE...
(continued from p. 1) The Ceremony began with a solemn pontifical procession, led by His Holiness Karekin II and
Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia and twelve Bishops to the St. Trdat Open Altar, to the sounds of the
“Khorhurd Khorin” hymn. The Pontifical Canopy
Bearers were Honorary President of the Pyunik Foundation Gabriel Chemberjian, General Director of
Sharjah Bank Varouj Nerguizian, ex-member and
minister of Lebanon parliament Shahe Barsoumian
and President of the Armenian community in China
Henri Arslanian.
The Ceremony was streamed live at the largest Armenian churches around the world, where representatives of Armenian Communities were gathered.
To conclude the Vigil, Armenian Apostolic Church
bells tolled 100 times simultaneously around the
world to symbolize the 100th Anniversary of the
Armenian Genocide, followed by a minute of silence. Many other churches around the world join
in solidarity with the Armenian people by doing
the same. At the end of the service, His Holiness
Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians; blessed
the attendees and the Psalm “Surb-Surb” was performed by various choirs around the world.
“Dear and pious faithful, All of us today are witnesses to the spiritual transfiguration of our history, in which we participate both collectively and
as individuals. The canonization of the martyrs of
the Genocide brings life-giving new breath, grace
and blessing to our national and ecclesiastical life.
We believe that we are weaving the crown of a new
spiritual rebirth for our people, by canonizing the
martyrs of the Armenian Genocide. The memory of
our holy martyrs will heretofore not be a requiem
prayer of victimhood and dormition, rather a victo-
rious song of praise by incorporeal soldiers, triumphant and sanctified by the blood of martyrdom.
Today the devout spirit of love ‘of faith and homeland’ of our holy martyrs extends from Der Zor to
Holy Etchmiadzin and Tsitsernakaberd, from newlyindependent Armenia to the reborn fields of Armenian life dispersed throughout the world, by
strengthening us to live with unshakeable faith, the
bright vision of the renaissance of our life, and the
unquestionable will to defend our righteous cause”,
noted His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch
and Catholicos of All Armenians.
For videos please visit:
Canonization of Armenian Genocide Martyrs or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 2
EVENTS MARKING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
April of 2015 was historic, with Armenians all around the world marking the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide
with commemoration ceremonies and events. The events organized in Armenia to commemorate the 100th anniversary of
the Armenian Genocide were coordinated by a special committee headed by Vigen Sargsyan, Chief of staff of the RA
President’s Office. From April 21-25, a number of events were organized in Armenia, from which the Armenian General
Benevolent Union (AGBU) played an important part.
Commemoration Ceremony at Tsitsernakaberd
Official delegations from 60 countries, including 4
presidents arrived in Armenia to participate in the
events organized as part of the 100th anniversary of
the Armenian Genocide. President of the Russian
Federation Vladimir Putin, President of France Francois Hollande, President of Serbia Tomislav Nikolic
and President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades also
arrived in Armenia to participate in the events. The
official delegates arrived in Armenia, were present at
the Tsitsernakabert Memorial to honor the victims of
the Armenian Genocide on April 24, 2015.
During the ceremony, the RA President Serzh Sargsyan spoke about the criminal hazards caused by the
denial of the Armenian Genocide. He thanked all the
people, countries, international organizations who
assisted survivors of the Armenian Genocide, as
well as joined the struggle of the Armenian people
in the recognition and condemnation of the Armenian Genocide.
Speeches were also made by His Holiness Karekin
II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians and the Presidents of four countries who arrived
in Armenia to participate in the commemorating
events. Esther Mujawayo, a survivor of the Rwandan Genocide, read the announcement of the Global Forum, entitled “Against Genocide Crime” to the heads of the countries at the Tsitsernakaberd Hill.
(continued on p. 4)
Page 3
President of Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of France Francois Hollande at the Armenian Genocide Museum
(continued from p. 3) On April 24th, the Presidents of the Russian federation, France, Serbia and Cyprus visited the Armenian Genocide-Museum. The leaders of the four countries walked through the museum, and walked through the new permanent exhibition. At the end of their informative visit they made a note in the Honorary Guests’ Book.
Against the Crime of Genocide
On April 22-23, 2015 more than
500 delegates from around the
world took part in the Against the
Crime of Genocide forum at the
Karen Demirchyan Sports and
Concerts Complex in Yerevan.
Delegates included representatives
of various countries and international institutions, scholars and
historians, political, social and religious figures, journalists, editors of
central news agencies from nearly fifty countries, among
them were Thorbjorn Jagland, Secretary General of the
Council of Europe, Daniel Feierstein, President of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, Baroness
Caroline Cox, Nikolai Ryzhkov, member of the Russian
Federal Council.
RA President Serzh Sargsyan Opens the Forum
An opening speech was made by the RA President Serzh
Sargsyan.
The forum served as a platform for discussion about the
Armenian Genocide, as well as other Genocides.
An AGBU delegation was also present at the forum
headed by AGBU President Berge Setrakian.
AGBU Delegation at the Against the Crime of Genocide Forum
Page 4
On April 23rd, 2015 Yerevan’s Republic Square exploded with the energy and passion of thousands of fans of the world
renowned band System of a Down as part of their Wake up the Souls tour. This was their first performance together for
almost a decade and their first in the Homeland.
Wake up the Souls:
“This is not a rock concert, this is our revenge”
The concert dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the
Armenian Genocide was accompanied with heavy
rain. But even the terrible weather could not dampen
the spirits of their fans from Armenia and abroad
who clouded into the square for this once in a lifetime opportunity to see the band in Concert in Armenia.
The concert began with these profound words by
Open-air Concert of System of a Down in Yerevan’s Republic Square
lead guitarist and second vocalist Daron Malakian
“This is not a rock concert, this is our revenge” saw the crowd roar their approval and uplift the mood in Republic Square
and showed the world that even a century after the Genocide we are alive, we will continue to thrive and celebrate our
victories untied young and old, local and diasporan standing shoulder to shoulder in torrential rain as a symbol of our
unity and strength.
In his interview with the Times newspaper Serj Tankian mentioned that the “Wake up the Souls” concert tours had one
aim, which was to draw everyone’s attention towards the subject of Genocide and justice. It was a great show, probably
the most impressive one, which we have ever had. Before going on a stage I was thinking about our ancestors”.
The group started the Wake up the Souls concert tours on April 6, 2015. The first concert was organized in Los Angeles;
followed by Great Britain, Germany, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Russia.
Raising awareness of the Armenian Genocide has always been important to the members of System of a Down.
100 Years of Remembrance
On April 21st, a Concert, entitled 100 Years of Remembrance dedicated to
the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide was broadcasted live at
the National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Yerevan from
Chatelet Theatre, Paris. World Armenian Orchestra consisting of Armenian musicians from the world’s most famous orchestras and conducted by
French-Armenian Alain Altinoghlu performed for the first time during this
Concert. Participants included Gulbenkian choir, renowned soprano Hasmik Papian, mezzo-soprano Nora Gubisch, tenor Liparit Avetissian, bass
Tigran Martirossian, Vahan Martirosyan, Jean-Mark Philips Varzhapetian,
Xavier Philips. The concert program featured pieces by Armenian composers including Komitas and Aram Khachaturyan and a symphony, specially written to honor the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide by
a French-Armenian composer Michel Petrossian, the winner of the 2012
Queen Elizabeth International Music Competition. At the end of the concert Mozart’s requiem was performed.
The Concert was organized by AGBU
Europe Chapter and was held under the
high patronage of the Presidents of
France and Armenia.
Page 5
“24/04” World Orchestra’s Revival Concert in Yerevan
On April 24th, at 20:15p.m. another unforgettable
musical evening was held at the National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Yerevan.
123 musicians from 43 different countries joined
forces as one orchestra to once again remind the
world of the Armenian Genocide with a concert,
entitled Revival.
24/04 orchestra consisted of musicians from Armenia, Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia,
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria,
China, Columbia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba,
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Dania, Ecuador,
France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Iran, Tunis,
Israel, Italy, Kazakhstan, Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Russian Federation, Scotland, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, Syria, the
United Kingdom, the United States of America, Uzbekistan.
Violinist Sergey Khachatryan, winner of various international competitions, the youngest laureate in the history of Jean
Sibelius International Competition and the winner of Queen Elizabeth International Competition; cellist Narek Hakhnazaryan, laureate of Gyeongnam international music competition of Korea, Tchaikovsky International Competition, Johansen
International Competition of Young Performers (USA), and Aram Khachaturyan International Competition, and renowned
duduk player Jivan Gasparyan were some of the solo performers of the evening as well as RA Meritorious Artist, baritone
Gevorg Hakobyan and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and one of the best loved sopranos Maria Guleghina.
The orchestra performed pieces by Armenian Composers from the last 100 years, pieces by Aram Khachaturyan, Edgar
Hovhannisyan, Ghazaros Saryan, Alexander Harutyunyan, Makar Yekmalyan, Avet Terteryan, Eduard Mirzoyan were
performed during the four-part concert.
The concert was conducted by Sergey Smbatyan, Hovhannes Chekijyan, Gianluca Marciano and Mikhail Yurovsky.
Torchlight Procession
On April 24th, thousands of young people, representatives of various political parties, social organizations
and student unions as well as others of various backgrounds and ages joined the traditional march with
flames from Republic Square to Tsitsernakabert Hill
dedicated to the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide.
Before starting the March participants honored the
memory of the innocent victims of the Armenian
Genocide with a minute’s silence and expressed their
resentment against the denial policy carried out by a
number of countries. This was the 16th March with
flames held in Yerevan.
A number of events are also planned for the future,
such as the Yerevan Biennial Meeting of International Association of Genocide Scholars, which will
host over 300 participants from all over the world.
Page 6
THE ARMENIAN GENERAL BENEVOLENT UNION
HOSTED ITS 88TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN YEREVAN
The Program of the GA Included the AGBUtalks - Discussions About Armenia and the Diaspora and the Opening of the AGBU New Building in Yerevan
On April 4, 2015, more than 200 delegates of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) participated in the 88th General
Assembly which took place at the Mesrop Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts (Matenadaran) in Yerevan, Armenia. The
event gave the delegates the opportunity to reassert their commitment to strengthening relations between Armenia and the Diaspora, as well as rediscover Armenia’s cultural treasures and its potential for development.
“Investment in the new generation remains one of AGBU’s greatest priorities. The growth of the scholarship program for Armenian students worldwide, the expansion of youth programs - internship, mentorship and leadership initiatives - and the evolution
of schools to keep pace with technological advancements all contribute to forming Armenian leaders who are prepared to guide
the community into the future,” said Berge Setrakian, President of AGBU.
At the first session of the General Assembly, the activities and projects, as well as financial and audited statements of the past
two years were presented. The AGBU Central Board was supplemented with five new members: Alexis Govciyan (France), Ani
(continued on p. 8)
Manukian (USA), Arno Adamian (England), Lena Sarkissian (Canada) and Lori Muncherian (USA).
Page 7
AGBU HOSTED ITS 88TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN YEREVAN...
(continued from p. 7) AGBU President Berge Setrakian delivered a welcome
speech to all the participants of the General Assembly. The assembly was
also attended by the RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobyan. In her
welcome speech she referred to the Union’s century of national service both
in Armenia and the Diaspora, wishing all the AGBU members’ success,
strength and energy in all their endeavours directed towards strengthening
the Homeland, as well as in their everyday work carried out to develop Armenia-Diaspora ties. Afterwards, the Minister awarded the AGBU President Berg Setrakian with a Golden medal of the RA Diaspora Ministry. His
Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of all Armenians
brought his Patriarchal blessings to the General Assembly. Bishop Bagrat
Galstanyan read the greetings of His Holiness Karekin II and at the end of
his speech granted Anita Anserian, the Director of AGBU Central Board
Programs, the “Surb Nerses” high order of honor on behalf of His Holiness.
As part of the General Assembly the AGBU “Garbis
Papazian” Award Ceremony also took place. It is presented to non-Armenian scholars and intellectuals for
their pro-Armenian activities as a sign of gratitude and
appreciation. This year the award was presented to
Alexander Bozhko, Armenologist and former Ambassador of Ukraine to Armenia.
A number of devoted members of AGBU were also
awarded with medals, such as Garbis Papazian, Haig
Messerlian, Nerses Nersoyan, Knar Basmajian, Toros
Boghossian and Srbouhi Sarkissian. Director of the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute Hayk Demoyan was also
awarded. At the end of the meeting the resolutions of the
88th General Assembly were presented.
For videos please visit: AGBU 88th GA held in Matenadaran,
AGBU 88th GA in Matenadaran, AGBU 88th GA or
www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 8
The New AGBU Building Inauguration in Yerevan
The new AGBU building in Yerevan is a blend of modern and historic architecture. To preserve the city ambience it contains stones of the Erivan Municipality Duma (City Council) building, constructed in 1906 and dismantled in 2000. The
interior is upgraded with contemporary design and advanced facilities. Construction of the five-story complex started in
2011 and was completed in 2015. The ground breaking ceremony of the building took place during the AGBU 87th General Assembly in 2012. The inauguration was marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony on the occasion of the AGBU 88th
General Assembly on April 4.
The grand opening ceremony was attended by the RA President Serzh Sargsyan, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, Mayor of Yerevan Taron Margaryan, RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobyan,
RA Minister of Urban Development Narek Sargsyan, other officials, a number of guests and members of the Union. The
red ribbon was cut by AGBU President Berge Setrakian with Levon and Seda Nazarian the son and daughter of Nazar and
Artemis Nazarians, who are the benefactors of the building. His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of
All Armenians brought his blessings to the new
building, and gave a heartfelt speech. Speeches
were also made by AGBU President Berge Setrakian and Seda Nazarian, daughter of Nazar and
Artemis Nazarian.
The benefactors of the new building are AGBU
Trustee and distinguished philanthropist Nazar
Nazarian and his wife Artemis. The architects are
AGBU Central Board Member Aris Atamian and
Narek Sargsyan. AGBU Central Board Member
Vasken Yacoubian is the Chairman of the Construction Committee. The interior was designed by
“Storaket” architectural studio in Yerevan. The
construction was done by “Horizon-95” Construction Company.
The façade is an exuberant expression of design
Berge Setrakian, Levon and Seda Nazarians Open the New AGBU Building
incorporating an ingenious combination of glass
and architecture elements of old Yerevan. The glass provides abundant natural light to create comfortable and inspiring
work space and ambiance. The building houses office spaces, conference rooms, exhibition halls and two underground
levels of parking. The interior has been renovated with contemporary design and advanced facilities.
(continued on p. 10)
Page 9
(continued from p. 9) This state-of-the-art building meets advanced construction standards and offers environmentallyfriendly features with cutting-edge technologies such as thermally insulated facades and solar panels making it an energy
efficient and sustainable structure. The new building will enable the AGBU Yerevan office to broaden the scope of its
educational, cultural and youth programs. It will also function as a hub to inspire further strengthening of cooperation between Armenia and Diaspora.
For videos please visit:
AGBU Building Inaugurated in Yerevan
New AGBU Building in Yerevan
or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
AGBU 88TH GA GALA CONCERT
The AGBU 88thGeneral Assembly concluded with a
gala concert at the National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet after A. Spendiarian, which was attended by the RA President Serzh Sargsyan, Yerevan
Mayor Taron Margaryan, RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobyan, RA Minister of Culture Hasmik Poghoyan, other guests and hundreds of spectators. Official opening speeches were delivered by AGBU President
Berge Setrakian and RA President Serzh Sargsyan, the
message of His Holiness Karekin II was delivered by
Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan.
“As the President of the Republic of Armenia I would
like to express my deepest gratitude to you for all your
efforts in carrying out patriotic activities throughout
Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora. Thank you ever
so much”
Serzh Sargsyan
RA President
Well-known artistic groups and singers performed during
the concert, as Armenian symphonic orchestra headed by
Maestro Karen Durgaryan, Armenian State Song and
Dance Ensemble of Tatul Altunyan, “Barekamutyun” ensemble, pianist Armen Babakhanyan, Inga and Asush Arshakyans, Aramo and Emma Petrosyans, students of
AGBU and Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin’s Children’s
Centers. The Director of the concert was Deputy Mayor of
Yerevan Aram Sukiasyan.
Page 10
AGBU 88th General Assembly Featured #AGBUtalks with Keynote Speakers
As part of the AGBU General Assembly, three panel discussions took place from April 1 till April 3, entitled “Human
Capital in Armenia and the Diaspora”, “Challenges of Building the Armenian State” and “Improving Armenians' International Standing”.
#AGBUtalks is one of the landmark events of this year’s 88th General Assembly. It aims to create a common discussion
platform to inspire and engage the participants to develop ideas and roadmaps to strengthen the nation. #AGBUtalks features keynote speakers from major educational institutions, synergy hubs, foundations, state and international organizations operating in Armenia and abroad.
They shared their experience and points of view with active youth from Armenia and the Diaspora, who are willing to
contribute in the development of Motherland.
#AGBUtalks panels were open to all AGBU General Assembly delegates and guests, as well as to
previously registered and interested members of
the public. They aimed to motivate participants to
increase youth engagement in tackling the country’s biggest challenges and create a more unified
network of active youth and professionals.
During the first panel discussion at the Ayb school,
entitled Human Capital in Armenia and the Diaspora, the panelists and participants discussed the
existing problems and prospects for developing
pan-Armenian potential. Serving as a platform for
exchange, it aimed to unveil new opportunities for
local and diasporan Armenian participants and
allowed for stronger bonds with the homeland. The
event highlighted the importance of education and
the various educational initiatives taken by AGBU
as a crucial to ensuring stronger and more competitive human capital.
The panel’s keynote speakers included Father Mesrop Aramyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ayb Educational Foundation; Sam Simonian, AGBU Vice President and Founder of the Simonian Educational Foundation and the
Tumo Center for Creative Technologies; Armen Der Kiureghian, AUA President; Aram Salatian, General Director of National Instruments Armenia; and Yeva Hyusyan, Country Director of Microsoft Armenia.
For videos please visit: AGBUtalks #1 or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 11
The Second #AGBUtalks Panel Inspired Youth to Strengthen the Armenian State
To encourage youth engagement in advancing Armenia’s state-building, the Armenian General Benevolent Union
(AGBU) held the second in a series of exciting and interactive #AGBUtalks on April 2 at the American University of Armenia (AUA).
The second panel of #AGBUtalks, entitled “The Challenges of Building the Armenian State,” brought together enthusiastic young participants from Armenia and the Diaspora to share their perspectives on the obstacles on Armenia’s path towards development and possible solutions to overcome them. The panel encouraged proactive youth involvement in various development programs as a means of fostering state-building process.
The keynote speakers at the panel included Vigen
Sargsyan, chief of staff of the President of Armenia; Daron Acemoglu, Elizabeth and James Killian
Professor of Economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT); Bishop Bagrat Galstanian, head of the Creation of Social Doctrine
department of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin; Armen Harutyunyan, Regional Representative of United Nations High Commissioner for
Human Rights in Central Asia; and Arpi Balian,
Director of AUA Extension Program.
At the end of the panel discussion the panelists answered questions from the audience. In his closing
remarks Bishop Bagrat Galstanyan said “I would like
to thank the Armenian General Benevolent Union, a
very important organization to me and to all of us,
for this wonderful initiation and I would especially
like to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation
to AGBU’s President Berge Setrakian. It is not a secret that the Armenian General Benevolent Union
has been greatly supporting the Mother See of Holy
Etchmiadzin and the Armenian Church throughout
the Diaspora both financially and morally, with human resources and energy, as well as with its ideology and policy.
AGBU’s uniqueness, different perspectives and rarity can serve a ground for our overall development.”
For videos please visit: AGBUtalks #2 or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 12
#AGBUtalks Conclusive Panel Focused on Armenians' International Standing
The third in series #AGBUtalks Panel took place on April 3rd at the UWC Dilijan College. Entitled Improving Armenians'
International Standing, the concluding #AGBUtalks panel brings together more than 250 local and Diasporan Armenian
participants to identify the biggest challenges that the nation needs to overcome to advance its prospects of development.
The panel invites participants to discuss the milestones accomplished and come up with their own initiatives to build a
better future. It focuses also on AGBU’s major undertakings aimed at unlocking Armenians’ potential and boosting the
nation’s international image.
The keynote speakers at the panel were Ruben Vardanyan, Co-Founder and Chairman of the RVVZ Foundation Board;
Vasken Kalayjian, Chief Executive Officer at GK Brand; Timothy Straight, Honorary Consul at Royal Norwegian Consulate and Finnish Honorary Consulate, Founder of the Homeland Development Initiative Foundation; Victoria Aslanian,
CEO of Golden Grape ArmAs LLC (ArmAs Wines).
“We have to realize one thing, our resources are limited and we should know for sure where to invest them, in what
field we can succeed and change something, in what field we can become the best ones. We shouldn’t allow us mediocrity; we can’t do something just for doing something. If we produce wine we should produce the best one, if beer than
it should be the best beer. We are a very small nation to allow for the lavishness of mediocrity. Mediocrity kills us.”
Ruben Vardanyan
President of RVVZ Foundation
Almost 150 AGBU delegates from all over the world
and more than 500 participants from Armenia were present at the three AGBU panel discussions. All three discussions were streamed live by CivilNet, which served
as an excellent opportunity for all those who wanted to
follow the #AGBUtalks live around the world.
The third panel discussion was concluded with AGBU
President Berge Setrakian’s closing remarks.
The AGBUtalks truly turned into a unique discussion platform touching upon general concerns and issues while
trying to find solutions to them together.
For videos please visit: AGBUtalks #3
Page 13
At the end of the third and final AGBUtalks at UWC Dilijan International School, AGBU President Berge Setrakian made
closing remarks to sum up the discussion series and outline future goals.
“We have, first of all, to use the Genocide centennial to start a new
chapter in the life of our organization and thus, hopefully, of the
Diaspora. We talked a lot during these three days, many things have
been said and you know what, everybody was right. In this kind of
topics there is no right, there is no wrong. There is a good will,
there is pragmatism and there is a vision. We wanted to get together
as an experience also by inviting our friends and colleagues in Armenia, because we cannot build a nation with the Diaspora alone,
or with Armenia alone, the problems are common. But at this stage
we cannot do two things at the same time. All efforts have to be concentrated on Armenia, of course without forgetting about our Diasporan communities. Why Armenia? Because we believe that the
third generation in the Diaspora, which is practically drifting away,
will come back to us, if we bring to this generation the pride of being Armenian and the pride can come from the country. If Armenia
does not become a source of pride, whether we have Armenia or not
is not going to make any difference for the new generation, if we
really do not succeed in having a strong country, economically, politically and socially, and, you know what - we can do it. We have to
get out of our enclave. We have to be successful. In 1984, in the
United States, we had the Governor of the 7th largest economy in
the world – California, we had one and a half congressmen, one full
AGBU President Berge Setrakian
and one half, we had the speaker of the house of Massachusetts, a
Sums up the Discussion Series
very strong, powerful position, we had the senate majority leader of
New Jersey, we had the majority leader of the assembly of California, we had three out of seven judges of the supreme
court of California. Today, the highest elected official in America is one of the 24 members of the City Council of Los Angeles. What happened to us? These are the issues that we have to think. AGBU is in a soul searching mould. Our cooperation with Ruben, Noubar, some of our Board Members, Sam Simonian, Joseph Oughourlian, we started a joint thinking, because by the end of the day, neither Ruben, nor we nor anybody has any self-interest. We all can do something else.
But we believe that the result of this soul searching and your input is extremely important. That is why we organize this
gathering. I would like to conclude by thanking you all for being here, it’s really very impressive, I never thought that we
would have such an attendance, I would like to thank all our delegates,
We have many problems, but I am very optimistic about the future of Armenia, because if I am not, than there is no reason
for me to continue what I am doing. I believe in it, I am happy that my wife believes in it, my children believe in it.
I would love to thank Ruben and this
international school for hosting us here
today, as well as the American University of Armenia and Ayb school, all our
panelists, our master of ceremony, Artak,
the organizing committee chaired by our
colleague and friend Vasken Yacoubian,
special thanks to Talar Kazanjian, to our
local staff, our New York based staff,
and above all to all of you.
I would also like you to know that our
relationship and cooperation with IDeA,
we are highly appreciative of all the initiatives that Ruben did, is doing and will
do, I think he’s a giant and he by himself
one day will be bigger than AGBU, I
hope. We are thankful that he accepted
to partner. And on this occasion I would
like to announce just a token commitment by AGBU to provide for the next five years, 100,000 USD a year, for the development of cultural, arts, music activities of the school.”
Page 14
Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial
As part of the AGBU 88th General Assembly the delegates, headed by President Berge Setrakian visited the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial on April 2, to honor the victims of the Armenian Genocide and lay a wreath at the eternal fire. Accompanied by Hayk Demoyan, Director of the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, the AGBU delegates also toured
the new exhibition halls of the Museum.
Republic of Armenia’s Defense Ministry
Visit to the Ministry of Defense was impressive and a
memorable where the members of the Union were received by The RA Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan.
After meeting with the Minister and other member of the
high command, the AGBU delegates were also present at
a military exercises organized at the Ministry. At the end of the meeting the RA Defense Minister Seyran Onahyan presented the Armenian General Benevolent Union with the Medal of the Armed Forces in appreciation of its patriotic activities and for preserving the Armenian identity. AGBU President Berge Setrakian awarded a golden medal to RA Minister
of Defense Seyran Ohanyan.
AGBU Golden Medal Awarded to RA Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan
Page 15
One of the aims of the General Assembly was introducing the National Instruments
members of the Union to successful individuals and companies in Armenia. To this end, the AGBU members visited the
Ayb high school, the American University of Armenia
(AUA), National Instruments and Synopsis offices in Armenia, Tumo Center for Creative Technologies and UWC Dilijan International College.
General Director of National Instruments in Armenia Aram
Salatian, received the AGBU delegates and introduced their
activities. NI began with a staff of 5, today it has become a
hub for more than 16 start-up companies where young specialists from Armenia and the Diaspora work, exporting
goods to the world market while meeting international standards. AGBU delegates walked through the offices and were
introduced to the activities that the company carries out in
Armenia with expectations for future cooperation and new
possibilities.
Synopsys
Synopsys has been operating in Armenia since 2004. Today it
already has approximately 650 workers, of which 600 are
young engineers. AGBU Central Board Member and Chief
Architect of Synopsis Armenia Dr. Yervant Zorian presented
the projects and activities of the organization to the guests.
AGBU delegates accompanied by Dr. Zorian and Hovik
Musayelian, Executive Director of Synopsys Armenia, toured
the Synopsys offices and were introduced to the organization’s activities.
Tumo Center for Creative Technologies
The next stop was the Tumo Center for Creative Technologies with its impressive and exceptional atmosphere. Founded
by the President of the Simonyan Educational Foundation
and AGBU Vice-President Sam Simonyan the Tumo Center
opened its doors to the young people of Armenia in 2011. As
of today it offers free education to 12-18 years-old boys and
girls in four different fields, gathering some 6000 students
under one roof.
At the Tumo Center the AGBU delegates were introduced to
the Teach for Armenia program. Larissa Ryan, Founder and
President of the organization presented their goals and upcoming activities. Teach for Armenia aims at making high
quality education available to all children.
PicsArt
The delegates also visited one of the most successful companies in Armenia, PicsArt. It entered the international market
in 2011. The application allow the user to take photos, using
various effects, frames, masks, borders, adding comments,
configuring colors, etc. It also offers painting tools, as different brushes, pencils, etc. Finished works can be shared via the
PicsArt social network or Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Picasa,
Dropbox, Fouresquare, Tumblr networks, send via sms or
email. The company started operating with five people. Today it has over 120 employees. PicsArt offers its services in
13 languages. The number of daily engaged users in social
media is 8-9 million people. The number of monthly PicsArt users reached 60 million. The company plans to expand this
number to 100 million in 2015. The total number of downloads has already reached 220 million. The Armenian version of
PicsArt was number 5 among the 100 best free apps at the Apple App Store in 2014.
Page 16
On April 1, as part of the long standing cooperation between the Yerevan Municipality and the AGBU Virtual College, a
presentation of Exploring Yerevan Multimedia e-book took place at the grand hall of the Yerevan Municipality. Exploring
Yerevan Multimedia e-book enriched with valuable information and beautiful design aims to help tourists to enjoy their
time in and around Yerevan. Striking videos, 3D images and photo collections, interesting stories about the city and interactive maps complete the content of the book, which was
AVC E-Book Presentation
presented by AGBU Central Board Member Yervant Zorian.
The presentation was attended by the Mayor of Yerevan,
Taron Margaryan, AGBU President Berge Setrakian and the
participants of AGBU 88th General Assembly. During the
presentation, AGBU President Berge Setrakian awarded
Taron Margaryan, the Mayor of Yerevan, an AGBU Golden
Medal for playing an important role in establishing and preserving close ties with the international organizations, as
well as for his vast contribution and the productive work he
carries out in the area of urban development. Taron Margaryan, in turn, awarded Berge Setrakian with a “Yerevan
Coat of Arms” symbolic present.
Concert and Tour of Komitas Museum
AGBU Golden Medal to Mayor of Yerevan Taron Margaryan
The delegates also visited the newly-opened Komitas Museum, where they enjoyed a special performance by Armen Babakhanyan with the RA Minister of Culture Hasmik Poghosyan, as well as toured through the museum.
Opening of Henri Verneuil Street in Yerevan
On April 2-5, days dedicated to Henri Verneuil took
place in Yerevan. Children of the renowned cinematographer, Patrick and Sophie Malakian, other family
members arrived in Yerevan to participate in the event.
Patrick Malakian is also the Chairman of AGBU Marseilles Chapter. On April 4th, AGBU delegates also
participated in the opening ceremony of the Henri Verneil street in Yerevan, a well-known French-Armenian
cinematographer.
For videos please visit: AVC E-book presentation or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 17
AGBU 88TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN ARMENIA
Page 18
AGBU 88TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN ARMENIA
Page 19
On March 28, AGBU 88th GA Delegates and guests visited the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh (NKR). During
the three-day visit, Delegates were introduced to NKR’s
social-economic situation and AGBU projects.
As part of the Karabakh tour, the delegates visited the
AUA-AGBU Continuing Education Program to explore
NKR’s educational potential and development prospects.
The center integrates the educational programs of the
American University of Armenia’s Extension Department.
Meeting NKR Parliament Speaker Ashot Ghulyan
On March 29, the AGBU Delegates were received by the
Chairman of the NKR Parliament Ashot Ghulyan.
Over the years, the organization has implemented many
humanitarian, educational and cultural projects in Artsakh
including the sponsorship of the Karabakh Chamber Orchestra (KCO), the NUR program (One Laptop Per Child)
in partnership with Fruitful Armenia Fund, building and
renovation of homes and schools. AGBU Benefactors and
NUR Project at Artsakh Schools
Members have participated in all-Armenian projects intended to strengthen Artsakh.
Tumo-AGBU NKR center will soon open its doors in Stepanakert, which will offer advanced facilities, design labs,
workshops, master classes, and above all, a creative ambience helping students explore the intersection between art
and technology and create their own career path.
During the three-day stay in Artsakh, the AGBU delegates
also visited Gandzasar and Shoushi and attended the conAfter the Concert of AGBU-Funded Artsakh State Chamber Orchestra cert of AGBU-funded Karabakh Chamber Orchestra.
AGBU CENTRAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 20
AGBU PRESIDENT BERGE SETRAKIAN’S VISIT TO ARMENIA
Between May 25-29, AGBU President Berge Setrakian visited Armenia to attend a series of meetings and events.
On May 26, President Setrakian participated in 2014 RA Presidential Award Ceremony at the RA Presidential Palace. The
Presidential Awards - certificates with inscriptions and monetary awards - were conferred to the awardees for their significant contribution in the fields of literature and arts,
architecture and urban development, sciences, humanitarian and social sciences, etc., by RA President
Serzh Sargsyan and Diaspora-Armenian philanthropist Robert Boghossian, representative of the Robert
Boghossian and Sons Foundation. President Sargsyan
congratulated all the awardees and wished them success in all their future endeavours. He also thanked
the Boghossian family for its participation and contribution in the development of their homeland, as well
as that particular award ceremony.
Since its inception in 2001 the RA Presidential Award
has been conferred to 306 individuals and organizations, including 19 international organizations.
On May 27th, Berge Setrakian participated in the 24th
annual meeting of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund’s Board of Trustees presided over by the Board’s President, RA
President Serzh Sargsyan. AGBU has been a member of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund since its inception in 1992.
Prior to the official session, the board members observed a minute of silence in memory of their deceased colleague Eduardo Seferian (Argentina).
After approving the session agenda and watching the
film about the work financed by the Hayastan AllArmenian Fund in 2014, the board of trustees discussed the agenda items, during which Ara Vardanyan
was re-appointed as Executive Director of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund for another three-year term,
effective May 27, 2015.
The Board of Trustees awarded the Certificate of
Benefactor Membership to Andranik Baghdasaryan,
Chairman of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund U.S.
Western Region Affiliate, who has so far donated
around 900.000 USD to the Fund’s projects.
Vahe Jazmadarian, Member of the Fund’s Audit
Committee, who had been on the Board of Trustees
since 1991, stepped down from his appointment and
proposed the candidacy of Ara Aslan, which was accepted by the Board. President Serzh Sargsyan thanked Mr.
Jazmadarian for his lasting contribution and dedication and adherence to principles demonstrated during his time in office
and awarded him with a First-Class Medal of Services to the Homeland.
A report on the target of the Hayastan All-Armenian
Fund’s Marathon 2015 was presented by NKR President Bako Sahakyan.
In his speech, President Sargsyan briefly reflected
upon the Genocide Centennial events, which have
been and are to this day financed exclusively through
private donations by our compatriots, this time mostly
from Armenia and Russia, who sponsored large-scale
projects like the global forum entitled Against the
Crime of Genocide, the commemorative event at Tsitsernakaberd, the System of a Down concert at the Republic Square and the Revival concert by more than
100 musicians from dozens of countries, and the Canonization Service held at the Mother See of Holy
Etchmiadzin, sponsored by the Armenian General
Benevolent Union.
Page 21
“PRIORITIES, OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR ARMENIANS”
AGBU President Berge Setrakian Meets AUA Students and Faculty
On January 30th, Berge Setrakian, President of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) and Member of the American
University of Armenia’s (AUA) Board of Trustees met with AUA’s students, faculty and staff to discuss priorities, opportunities
and challenges for Armenians. The lecture was held at the AUA Manoogian Hall and attended by AUA President Dr. Armen
Der Kiureghian, AUA Vice President Ashot Ghazaryan, AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian, AGBU Armenia
Interim Director Hovik Eordekian and other guests.
Thanking the AUA President for his invitation and those
present for attending, the AGBU President spoke about the
current situation in Armenia, future expectations, the role of
the young people, both from Armenia and the Diaspora, in
building the future of Armenia, as well as the recent geopolitical developments around the world. “As Martin Luther
King says ‘you have to have a dream and the dream will
come true’. Our dream is to build a strong Armenia. This is
our number one priority. Of course, we are concerned about
the problems in Armenia. Today, the whole world is facing a
lot of problems. Look what’s happening in the Middle East.
Of course, we are not proud of the corruption in this country.
But at the same time we are realistic and proud of the achievements. If there’s any movement that is going to come out in this
country, it’s going to be through the new generation, which
lives here in Armenia. We do not have any interest in criticizing the government openly just for the sake of criticizing. We
are not an oppositional political party, which wants to gain
votes by criticizing the government. But at the same time, we
do talk about the problems in Armenia with the government.
That’s why the various governments that came after the independence trusted our organization, because they knew that whenever we criticize them, whenever we talk about these problems,
we do it in good faith for the best interest of the country. We should persist with our struggle for the better future of Armenia
and I remain optimistic about that. As a Diasporan, I tell you, the Diaspora will not live too long if Armenia does not become a
subject of pride for our communities”.
Setrakian also spoke about the importance of education and culture in building a nation, the problem of immigration, the discovery of young and talented leaders, AGBU’s centennial activities and the re-evaluation and re-direction of its mission and goals at
the threshold of a new century. “Armenia is a small country with a small economy. Today, AGBU’s main target, forget a little
bit about benevolence, is to try to organize ourselves with individuals, who have already committed themselves to Armenia, people like Ruben Vardanian, Sam Simonian and Eduardo Eurnekian. If we have three more Vardanians, three more Simonians and
Eurnekians, the economy of this country will come up. Our
priority now is to create jobs in Armenia. All our efforts are
geared towards that direction”. Following his impassioned
speech, Setrakian opened the floor for questions from the
attendees.
Berge Setrakian was born in Beirut in 1949. He moved to the
USA in 1976. He has received Masters Degrees in French
and Comparative Law from Beirut’s St. Joseph University
and Lyon University in France. In 2011, Berge Setrakian was
awarded the Order of Honor by the President of the Republic
of Armenia. Setrakian is the 7th President of AGBU since
2002. He is also a Member of the AUA Board of Trustees.
AGBU is one of the founders of the American University of
Armenia and continues to financially support the University.
For videos please visit: AGBU President at AUA or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 22
TUMOxAGBU PARTNERSHIP TAKES OFF IN GYUMRI
The new center offers a free after-school learning environment to help equip youth with skills
for employment in the media and creative industries
On May 25, Tumo Center for Creative Technologies expanded its reach and opened in Gyumri. Inaugurated by the President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan, the center is the result of a partnership between the Armenian General Benevolent Union
(AGBU) and the Simonian Educational Foundation. Upon the initiative of President Sargsyan, a telethon to raise funds for
the launch of the center was implemented by Shant TV
president Arthur Yezekyan last fall.
During the opening event, Armenian youth toured the
center along with the other guests and became familiar
with Tumo's educational program. They also had an
opportunity to enroll in the program making them official Tumo members. For many exited young guests, it
was an emotional moment. ''This is the realization of
our dreams'' said 14-year-old Nareh as she first set foot
in Gyumri during the center's opening. Together with
over 50 other teenagers, she was part of the Center’s
first official visitors. 14-year-old Gevorg has plans to
become "a world-shaking musician and DJ" while 13year-old Angin mused about becoming "President... no,
Sam Simonian, Vasken Yacoubian and Artur Yezekian
Cutting the Red Ribbon of TUMOxAGBU Gyumri Center
RA President Serzh Sargsyan Tours TUMOxAGBU Gyumri Center
also a French linguist and translator... okay, let just say
the President of France." The future possibilities are limitless with the opening of the center bringing hope to the
youth of this region. The TUMOxAGBU Gyumri Center
opened its doors at its initial location in the Gyumri Technopark. It will launch a free after-school program in September, promoting 21st century skills, focusing on Animation, Game Development, Web Design and Filmmaking.
Starting in June, local youth and their parents will be able
to visit the center and acquaint themselves with its curriculum. Students will be able to register for membership during this time.
The Gyumri program will be available to 500-1000 students.
Students will participate twice a week for two hours per session. The partnership between the Simonian Foundation and
AGBU will also launch a second TUMOxAGBU center in
Stepanakert later this year. This initiative is part of AGBU’s
commitment to education and innovation in Armenia.
AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian
Speaking at the Opening of the TUMOxAGBU Gyumri Center
For videos please visit: TUMOxAGBU Gyumri Center
Page 23
AUA COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY 2015
Welcoming the first graduates of AUA’s Master of Science in Economics Program
On June 6th, 2015, the American University of Armenia (AUA) celebrated the graduating class of 2015 with the 23rd Commencement Ceremony. Trustees, faculty, staff, students, friends, and family members from around the world gathered in AUA’s
Large Auditorium to honour the hard work and accomplishments of its newest graduating class.
This year’s ceremony was led by AUA President Armen Der
Kiureghian, one of the founders of the university, who has supported the institution’s development since its inception in 1991.
Following an invocation by His Grace Bishop Gevorg Saroyan,
President Armen Der Kiureghian gave his welcoming remarks,
“This is a special day of celebration for faculty, students, parents, and all the organizations and individuals who worked
towards the establishment and development of this institution.”
He specifically thanked the three main entities that helped
bring AUA to life: the Armenian government, the Armenian
General Benevolent Union, and the University of California.
President Der Kiureghian also highlighted some of AUA’s biggest achievements of 2014-2015 academic year, including the
reaffirmation of the university’s accreditation for 9 years by the
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC),
the signing of collaborative agreements with the University of
California, Los Angeles and the University of California, Irvine,
the launch of the 1915 Centennial Series, etc.
Commencement addresses were given by Fr. Mesrop Aramyan,
Adviser to the RA President and Chairman of the Ayb Educational Foundation Board, as well as by Richard M. Mills, Jr., the
newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Armenia.
This year’s ceremony also featured three valedictorian speeches. The Armenian address was given by Varduhi Movsisyan, the
English address by Klariss Tahmassian-Kabakian (both from the MA TEFL program), and the third address was given at the
Provost’s invitation by Balu Vignesh Thavidu Rajan (MBA/MPH), who stated, “Just like the founders of the American University of Armenia, our dream is to continuously build this university through the hard work of graduating students as well as of
our fellow alumni. I ask that all the graduates raise their hands and give a promise that we all build this dream.”
Shabitha Alexander, a first-year School of Public Health student, was the recipient of the 2015 Vartkess M. Balian Merit Award.
This was the first year that AUA awarded Teaching Excellence and Research Awards, the funds of which have been provided by
Trustees Berge Setrakian, Sam Simonian, and Sinan Sinanian. This year’s Faculty Teaching Excellence prize winners were Martin Galstyan and Mikayel Tovmasyan, both Lecturers in the College of Business & Economics. Research Awards were given to
five faculty research projects.
With the addition of approximately
230 new graduates, the number of
AUA alumni has reached close to
3,000. The degrees and certificates
were conferred to graduates in the
fields of business management,
economics, public health, computer and information science,
industrial engineering and systems
management, political science and
international affairs, law, and
teaching English as a foreign language. The Master of Science in
Economics was conferred for the
first time in AUA’s history. The
program was established in 2013
in cooperation with the RA Central Bank. As is the tradition, at the end of the ceremony the graduates excitedly threw their caps
in the air to celebrate receiving their diplomas.
For videos please visit: AUA Graduation 2015, AUA Commencement, AUA Graduation Ceremony, AUA Graduation
Page 24
AGBU CENTRAL BOARD MEMBER NOUBAR AFEYAN LECTURES AT AUA
Entrepreneurial Innovations Transforming Health and Sustainability
On May 25, 2015, the American University of Armenia (AUA) hosted Noubar Afeyan, entrepreneur and innovator, for a
talk on Entrepreneurial Innovations Transforming Health and Sustainability. The event was hosted by the College of Science & Engineering.
Dr. Afeyan drew upon his 25-year career as inventor,
CEO, and venture capitalist in presenting a thorough
discussion on cutting edge innovations at the intersection of technology, life sciences, and health. “My purpose here is to encourage everyone to be innovative,”
said Afeyan, citing the start-up company as one of the
biggest innovations in the last 50 years. “Your job as
an entrepreneur is to imagine value, then demonstrate
value, then create that value, and get rewarded for creating that value.”
For the many AUA students in the audience with entrepreneurial aspirations, Afeyan’s words reminded them
that AUA can play a role in developing a culture of
innovation and entrepreneurship that they can harness
AGBU Central Board Meber Noubar Afeyan met with
and use in their future endeavours. “Universities are
the Students, Faculty and Staff of the American University of Armenia
the place where the most proximal generation that enters the work field is trained, and it’s a place for new ideas and new approaches. And innovation is all about breaking the
mould and coming up with new ideas. I think AUA can play a huge role,” he said.
Afeyan is Founder, Senior Managing Partner, and CEO of Flagship Ventures, a leading early stage venture capital firm.
He also leads the firm’s VentureLabs unit that invents and launches transformative startups. He is a Senior Lecturer at
MIT’s Sloan School of Management where he has taught courses on technology-entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership since 2000. Afeyan has authored numerous scientific publications and patents since earning his Ph.D. in
Biochemical Engineering from MIT in 1987. He lectures
widely in the United States and internationally on diverse
topics ranging from entrepreneurship, innovation and
venture capital to biological engineering, drug discovery,
medical technologies and renewable energy.
In addition, he serves on the board of AmeriaBank and of
UWC Dilijan International School. Previously, he was a
co-founder and board member of the National Competitiveness Foundation of Armenia, a private-public partnership dedicated to promoting economic development in
the former Soviet Republic of Armenia. In 2008 he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honour, an award
granted to outstanding Americans who have distinguished themselves as United States citizens and who have enabled their
ancestry groups to maintain their identities while becoming integral parts of American life.
For videos please visit: Nubar Afeyan at AUA or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 25
AVC MASTER CLASS AT AYB HIGH SCHOOL
The AGBU Armenian Virtual Collage continues to expand the horizons of its outreach, especially with those educational institutions which greatly value an innovative approach to education. One such institution is the Ayb High School in Armenia that pursues a new culture of learning by integrating the best learning traditions with modern learning technologies.
On January 27, the AVC Founding President Dr. Yervant Zorian delivered a master class in Ayb High School. The event
was titled Technology & Education and
was aimed at revealing AVC’s initiatives
that facilitate Armenian education all over
the world. Around 100 Ayb School pupils
from grades 10-12 participated in the lecture. The event began with an opening
speech by Aram Pakhchanian, the Director
of Ayb School. He outlined Dr. Zorian’s
biography, activities, and investment in
AVC’s foundation and then described
AVC’s mission and vision to the audience.
Dr. Yervant Zorian began the master class with a presentation which focused on the aims and milestones of AVC. The Ayb students learned of the wide range of subjects offered by AVC, the innovative method of teaching being used, and the virtual communication platform AVC had been building. Then, the AVC president proceeded with the topic of e-books, presenting them as
a contemporary way of disseminating knowledge about Armenia, “The Multimedia e-Book Series provide us with a fine possibility to enrich knowledge in Armenian studies”, Dr. Zorian stated.
The impact of the master class on Ayb students was obvious; their enthusiasm was so great that an active and lively Q&A session followed the class during which Ayb students not only asked questions, but also made recommendations and expressed
creative ideas on AVC’s future activities. Some students even expressed their interest in engaging in voluntary work for AVC,
and thus supporting its outreach efforts.
At the end, the director of Ayb school, Aram Pakhchanian, thanked Dr. Zorian for the great opportunity he provided for Ayb pupils to learn more about AVC. The AVC and Ayb meeting ended on a warm note and is another milestone in building partnerships with well-known educational institutions.
AGBU AVC ANNOUNCES ENROLLMENT FOR SUMMER TERM 2015
Page 26
AVC FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT DR. YERVANT ZORIAN’S VISIT
TO DUBLIN, IRELAND
The AGBU Armenian Virtual College (AVC) continues to actively expand its geographic boundaries; this time hosting
AVC was the capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin.
On March 20, 2015 the AVC Founder & President Dr. Yervant Zorian
visited Dublin and within his oneday stay he met with the Armenian
community of Ireland. He gave a
public lecture to the Armenian audience in Dublin, presenting the concept of AVC to the attendees, and
the mission that helped create and
operate the college.
The Armenians in Dublin learned of
the opportunity to get educated
online and thus preserve their language, history and culture with the
help of AVC. Dr. Zorian shared
AVC Founder and President Dr. Yervant Zorian Meeting the Armenian Community of Dublin
AVC’s unique online learning experience and different teaching methodologies such as the e-books with the audience; they learnt of pure online and onsite
(hybrid) methods of learning – the latter being rather applicable for the Dublin Armenians. The public lecture attendees
were very enthusiastic of AVC achievements. “The lecture was quite stimulating and thought provoking, all present were
very impressed and touched by the talk about AVC activities” said Dr. Paul Manook, the Head of Armenian Parish Council in Ireland.
The listeners then expressed a wish to experience the hybrid learning process of AVC. Dr. Zorian promised the Armenian
community members to assess the establishment of the Armenian Virtual College hybrid classroom in Dublin. The community members, on their behalf, agreed to make every effort to turn it into reality. Dr. Aram Hakhumyan was appointed
as liaison with AVC to follow up the realization and co-ordination of the project with the community members.
The warm reception and the encouraging ambience in the Armenian community in Dublin and the Armenian Parish Council in Ireland once again proved that there is a great need for AVC in the Diaspora and that in any corner where at least
one Armenian lives AVC is always valuable.
Page 27
9TH REPUBLICAN INTERSCHOOL CHESS TOURNAMENT
HELD AT THE YEREVAN CHESS ACADEMY
The 9th Republican Interschool Chess Tournament, which had began in October 2014, finally came to an end in May 2015,
bringing together Armenia’s chess lovers and students for a final match day at the Armenian Chess Academy. For the 9th
consecutive year, through a tough competitions, painful losses and exciting victories, over 15,000 schoolchildren from all
over Armenia, Artsakh and Javakhq, competed for
the title of the best school team and best individual
player.
For the past eight years AGBU has been the sponsor
of the tournament organized by the Chess Academy
and RA Ministry of Education and Science.
This year, upon the decision of the Chess Academy, the
rules of the tournament were slightly altered: instead of
the previous 4 players in one team (3 boys and 1 girl), this
year the teams were comprised of 3 members (2 boys and
1 girl). The second change was that the 9th tournament
was held in two separate age groups: high school students
and middle school students. Until last year all students
competed in one tournament.
The finals of the 9th Republican Interschool Chess Tournament took place May 3-5 between the 17 best middle school
teams and 17 best high school teams.
AGBU awarded all the participants of the finals with Lenovo tablets, top individual winners received sport watches, while
the members of the winning teams of the tournament were given monetary prizes. The top three regions received laptops
from AGBU.
Winners of the 9th Republican Interschool
Chess Tournament: Middle School
I place - School N55, Yerevan
II place - School N51, Yerevan
III place - School N12, Etchmiadzin
Winners of the 9th Republican Interschool
Chess Tournament: High School
I place - High School N119, Yerevan
II place - ANPU High School
III place - High School N65, Yerevan
For videos please visit: 9th Republican Chess Tournament Final or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 28
FIVE STUDENTS OF THE YEREVAN STATE UNIVERSITY
RECEIVED AGBU BOGHOS NUBAR AWARD
The best five students from five different faculties of the Yerevan State University (YSU) received the Armenian General
Benevolent Union’s (AGBU) Boghos Nubar award. On May 20th, at the YSU academic hall the selected students received the award certificates. The scholarship
was awarded to the 5 most socially active students with high performance from the faculties of Pharmacology and Chemistry, International Relations, Biology, Mathematics and
Mechanics, and Law.
The decision of giving scholarship awards to
the above mentioned students was made by
the YSU Academic Council at the March 26
session. Students were recommended by the
deans after a joint decision was made with the
chairs and representatives of the teaching
staff.
The opening speech was made by Alexander
Margarov, Head of the International Cooperation Office of the YSU, Deputy Vice-Rector
for Scientific Policy and International Cooperation.
In his speech AGBU Armenia Interim Director
Hovig Eordekian described the Mission of the Union and a century of support that the Union provided. He said that the AGBU has a long record of
cooperation with the university, back in the 30's,
by providing scholarships to students, supporting
publishing activities, acquisition of equipment and
books and the improvement of housing conditions.
AGBU has long cooperated with the Alma Mater
and it is not by chance that the Union, from time
to time, has provided scholarships to the students, as well as improved the conditions of the
University.
Deans of the Faculties and Heads of Chairs were
also present at the ceremony, who presented the
recommended students, noting that they had
taken into consideration their high performance
and membership of student organizations, as well as research activities.
Below are the names of the students, who received the AGBU Boghos Nubar award:
• Sevak Grigoryan - Faculty of Pharmacology and Chemistry, 3rd year
• Lilit Petrosyan - Faculty of Law, 1st year master
• Varduhi Harutyunyan - Faculty of International Relations, 3rd year
• Heghine Gevorgyan - Faculty of Biology, 3rd year
• Nerses Srapionyan - Faculty of Mathematics and Mechanics, 3rd year
For videos please visit: AGBU Boghos Noubar Award to YSU Students or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 29
EVENTS IN TURKEY TO COMMEMORATE THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY
OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
Representatives of Turkish and European Organizations in Yerevan
For 95 years no events commemorating the Armenian Genocide were organized in Turkey. Everything changed in 2010 when
an event honoring the innocent victims of the Armenian Genocide was organized at Istanbul’s Taksim Square. In recent years,
AGBU Europe has supported the organization and realization of the commemorative events of the Armenian Genocide in Turkey initiated by EGAM (European Grassroots Antiracist Movement) from France, Turkish DurDe! (Say Stop to Racism and
Nationalism) and IHD, a Turkish Human Rights Association.
For the third consecutive year, following the commemorative
events organized in Turkey on April 24, an international delegation of the representatives of these organizations also visit
Armenia with the support of AGBU Europe with the aim of
sharing their impressions and programs, meeting with the representatives of civil society, members of the NGOs dealing
with Armenian-Turkish relations, as well as visit the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial of the Armenian Genocide.
This year again, after commemorating the 100th Anniversary
of the Armenian Genocide in Turkey, a delegation of 8 people
representing the above mentioned organizations headed to
Yerevan. On April 26th, accompanied by AGBU Yerevan the
group visited Tsitsernakaberd Memorial and laid flowers at
the eternal fire. They also visited the Genocide Museum,
walked through the newly opened halls of the Museum and met the Director of the Genocide Museum-Institute Hayk Demoyan.
On April 27th, a press conference was organized for the international delegation at the AGBU Yerevan office. AGBU Interim
Director Hovig Eordekian also participated.
“The recognition of the Armenian Genocide in Turkey is a continuous process, which will result in fundamental changes of historical consciousness of the Turkish people. The attention of international society and enforcement of Turkish non-governmental
organizations may force Turkey to recognize the evidence of the Armenian Genocide and fulfill the demands of the Armenian
people. This is the 6th time we have honored the memory of the innocent victims of the Armenian Genocide in Istanbul. As this
year marks the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, the number of people at this year’s demonstration was more than
we could expect. Various news agencies showed great interest in these events”, said Levent Şensever, the Co-founder and
speaker of DurDe, Turkey.
The members of the delegation spoke about the events
and demonstrations organized in Turkey, changes in the
attitudes of people and their participation in the demonstrations, enforcements applied by the authorities and
organizing the Gallipoli event, the importance of the
100th Anniversary of the Genocide and the future plans.
EGAM President Benjamin Abtan said, “Denials
and enforcements will still remain, but, this movement exists regardless and it is indivertible and the
Turkish Government realizes the importance of
this movement. Nothing ends with the 100th anniversary; on the contrary, it is the beginning of a
new page and a new struggle. We will continue
our struggle”.
For videos please visit: EGAM and DurDe in Armenia, DurDe Co-Founder at Shant or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 30
ARTSAKH STATE CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PERFORMS IN USA
The AGBU-funded Artsakh State Chamber Orchestra, in cooperation with International Competitions and Festivals and the
Ministry of Culture and Youth Affairs of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, gave two performances in the United States of America in March 2015. The first concert on March 13th took place at the Alex Theater, Los Angeles. Two days later, on March 15th,
the orchestra gave another sold out concert at the Boston National Heritage Museum presenting pieces by Komitas, Sayat Nova,
Eduard Mirzoyan and other prominent Armenian and non-Armenian composers. A reception in honor of the orchestra’s musicians under the leadership of Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Gevork Muradyan was organized by AGBU in the Union’s Boston Center. Both concerts of the orchestra in USA took place with the financial support of the Armenian General Benevolent Union.
The Artsakh State Chamber Orchestra was established in 2004 through AGBU’s initiative and support. AGBU continues to
sponsor the orchestra. Headed by Maestro Muradyan the orchestra has performed in Artsakh, Armenia and abroad.
YOUNG ARMENIAN MUSICIANS
AT THE NUTCRACKER 15TH INTERNATIONAL TV CONTEST
15th international TV contest Nutcracker (Shchelkunchik) took place in Moscow, Russia. Two Armenians, 14-year-old trumpet player Daniel Melkonyan (professor G. Sargsyan) and 12-year-old violinist Paulina Sharafyan (professor Al. Kosemyan), both from
Yerevan’s Tchaikovsky Music School, participated in the contest with the support of
the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia.
The final concert took place at Moscow’s Tchaikovsky Music Hall. Winners of the
three main categories included Daniel Melkonyan, who won the Wind Instruments
“Bronze Nutcracker”. Pauline Sharafyan received a contest certificate.
This year 49 young musicians had applied to participate in the wind instruments category. Out of 19 trumpeters, only two were chosen to participate – from Russia and Armenia. Throughout the whole contest Daniel’s scores were the highest in his subgroup.
However, at the final stage flutist Veronica Vinogradova and saxophone player Georgi
Jishkariani surpassed him.
Daniel was born in a family of musicians. He started playing the trumpet at the age of 7.
He is Armenia’s first representative in Nutcracker’s wind instruments category. Among
those who supported Daniel to represent Armenia in the contest was the Armenian Gen“I had heard a lot about this wondereral Benevolent Union.
ful contest. My participation was an
Two years ago, AGBU had also supported another participant, violinist Diana Adamimportant step for me. I wasn’t woryan, who went on to win second place at Nutcracker.
ried at all and I enjoyed every stage of
Pauline Sharafyan, the
the contest”, said Daniel.
second representative of
Armenia in the international contest, was also born into a family of musicians. She
started playing the violin at the age of 6 and currently studies at
the Tchaikovsky Music School. Pauline has already performed
in New York, Tbilisi and Yerevan and was the recipient the gold
prize at Gyumri’s “Renaissance” festival. She is the daughter of
composer Vache Sharafyan.
The Nutcracker contest was established by Russia’s Kultura
(Culture) TV Channel for talented musicians under 14.
Page 31
AGBU AND MOTHER SEE OF HOLY ETCHMIADZIN
NORK YOUTH CENTER’S HAYKAZOUNQ CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY
Haykazounq song and dance ensemble of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) and the Mother See of Holy
Etchmiadzin Nork Youth Center celebrated its 25th anniversary with a festive jubilee concert at the Stanislavski Russian
Drama Theater in Yerevan. A word of blessing by Reverend Father Komitas Hovnanian, Director of the Youth Centers,
opened the evening.
For its contribution in the preservation and development
of the Armenian culture, the Haykazounq ensemble was
awarded the RA Culture Ministry’s diploma, certificates
by Yerevan’s Mayor and Nor Nork Governor, as well as
the Grikor Narekatsi medal.
Currently, there are eight Youth Centers operating in
Armenia. Three of them have been sponsored by the
Armenian General Benevolent Union since 1993. A
total of 4000 children, aged 4-25, are enrolled in the
Youth Centers.
HOVSEP SARAFIAN AWARDED RA PRIME MINISTER'S MEDAL
On April 11, RA Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamian received prominent Diasporan architect and philanthropist Hovsep
Sarafian and his wife Nadia Sarafian. Highly appreciative of Mr. Sarafian’s involvement in various programs implemented in Armenian communities worldwide, the Head
of the RA Government thanked him for his personal
contribution and the work he has done so far. The Prime
Minister expressed hope that Mr. Sarafian will continue
his efforts towards the preservation of the Armenian
identity.
Thankful of high appreciation of his activities Hovsep
Sarafian assured that he will continue supporting his
Homeland through various projects.
“It was the dream of our ancestors to have a free and
independent homeland and that dream has come true.
Now it is in our hands to build the bright and flourishing future for our country. We should pay more attention to our villages and villagers. Without them this
country will not live long. We must secure all necessary
conditions for them not to leave their land. If we lose the homeland, the Diaspora will be lost in an instant. Hopefully, the
next generation will live in better conditions”, said Sarafian.
Also present at the meeting were Narek Sargsyan, Republic of Armenia’s Minister of Urban Development, Ashot Kirakosian, Director of Armenia’s Regional Development Fund, and Hovik Eordekian, Interim Director of the AGBU Armenia.
Hovsep Sarafian, who is an Honorary Member of AGBU, has for many years supported the Social Investment Fund's construction and renovation projects through AGBU Detroit Chapter. For distinguished contribution to the development of
communities in the Republic of Armenia, Hovik Abrahamyan awarded architect Hovsep Sarafian the Prime Minister’s
commemorative medal.
Page 32
AGBU ARMENIA VISITS
TSITSERNAKABERD MEMORIAL OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
Armenians around the world organized commemorative
events to mark the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide. They filled the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial complex for weeks leading up to April 24th and AGBU Armenia along with its various groups joined the throngs of
mourners at Tsitsernakaberd to honor the innocent victims
of the Armenian Genocide.
Holding high the flags of the Republic of Armenia and
the AGBU Scouts, AGBU Armenia staff, members and
scouts headed by AGBU Central Board member Vasken
Yacoubian and AGBU Diaspora Youth Programs Coordinator Hermine Duzian visited Tsitsernakaberd Memorial
to lay a wreath at the eternal fire.
Later on in the day, AGBU Yerevan Scouts took part
in a flash mob by releasing thousands of balloons dedicated to the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian genocide. From Kievyan Street in Yerevan and from the
adjacent Tumanyan garden thousands of air balloons
flew up over the skies of Yerevan symbolizing the
souls of the innocent victims of the Armenian Genocide and once again reminding the world about the
great sorrow of the Armenian people.
The junior members of the AGBU Yerevan scouts took part
in the flower ceremony at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial on
April 27th. For the fifth consecutive year, Viva-Cell MTS
and Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) in Yerevan recycle the thousands of
flowers left at the eternal flame of Tsitsernakaberd Memorial.
With the help of ordinary
volunteers and non profit
organisations the stems and
petals of over two tons of
flowers are carefully separated. The stems serve as
fertilizer and the petals are
used to make recycled
cards and paper for letters
of acknowledgement. The
AGBU Yerevan Scout
have for years taken part in
this environmentally sound
and wonderful initiative.
Page 33
AGBU YEREVAN SCOUTS: THREE-DAY CAMPING AND VISITS
From May 1-3, 2015, the AGBU Yerevan Scouts organized their annual three-day camp as always resulting in a stimulating and interesting program. Following a quick prep session the scouts left for camp at the Lermontovo village in Lori.
After putting up the tents and raising the mast everyone
hurried to take the compass exam, which is of utmost importance for each scout. In the darkness of the Lermontovo
evening the scouts organized a game in the forest, to help
hone their alertness skills in the dark. The first day of camp
was especially important for several scouts of the Aragil
group, who succeeded in the tasks previously prepared for
them and proving their readiness to become rover scouts.
On day two, the scouts took part in an exercise designed to
check their orientation and flexibility skills as part of a
large group as well
as being examined
on their map reading skills.
Day three was by far the most interesting for the group. The appointment of scout
leaders and rover scouts were announced during the flag raising ceremony. The
ceremony was also attended by Hermine Duzian, Chairperson of AGBU Yerevan
Scout group. The three-day camp ended with a flag-raising ceremony and the
scouts came back to Yerevan in high spirits.
On April 12, AGBU Yerevan Scouts Aragil group visited N1 nursing home in
Yerevan. The aim of the visit was not only to communicate with the elderly, but
also handing over the presents promised to Ms. Nvard.
During their previous visit in March, the scouts had promised to bring her a
group photo in a beautiful handmade frame with the lyrics of “Seeing Ani Before
I Die”. The emotional meeting with Ms Nvard and her husband was followed by
the elderly couple reminiscing about their lives during the War. The meeting took
a happier turn when one of the scouts sat down at the piano
Following the poignant meeting, the Scouts participated in a youth flash mob organized in the heart of
Yerevan.
Page 34
“ALEPPO: TROUBLESOME DAYS”
Exhibition by AGBU Aleppo “Martiros Saryan” Academy’s Students Opens in Yerevan
As part of the events marking the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, a three-day exhibition, entitled Aleppo: Troublesome Days of AGBU Aleppo’s Martiros Saryan Academy’s students’ paintings opened at the museum of children’s creations of
the National Center of Aesthetics in Yerevan on February 18th. The exhibition was dedicated to the 60thanniversary of the foundation of the Academy. The exhibition was organized with the
support of the RA Ministry of Diaspora, the Armenian General
Benevolent Union (AGBU) and the Syrian-Armenian Relief Coordination Center NGO.
In her welcoming speech, the RA Minister of Diaspora Hranush
Hakobyan expressed gratitude to Hrazdan Tokmajian, the teacher
of the Academy, who had moved to Aleppo 20 years ago, became
the longstanding Director of the Academy and helped the Academy reach its high level of performance. Hranush Hakobyan
granted the Arshile Gorky Medal of the RA Diaspora Ministry to
Hrazdan Tokmajian for publicising Armenian art abroad, as well
as for his immeasurable contribution to the development of the
Armenia-Diaspora partnership.
Hrazdan Tokmajian expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of
Diaspora for the prestigious award and for organizing the exhibition of Martiros Saryan Academy’s students’ paintings.
Chairman of AGBU Aleppo, writer, pedagogue Hagop Mikayelian in his speech mentioned that the roots of the Academy, established in 1955, are so deep that even in a war it continues to keep its doors open and mitigate the sufferings of children in
these difficult days.
Aleppo-Armenian children Anna Maria Mubayed and Serli Sherhmelian, who have moved to the Homeland because of the civil
war in Syria, performed during the exhibition.
The exhibition ended with the screening of a video made by the students of the Academy greeting their compatriots in Armenia.
For videos please visit: AGBU Aleppo Academy Students' Exhibition in Armenia or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
WOMEN TO WOMEN: FROM NEW JERSEY TO VANADZOR AND TALIN
On June 20th AGBU Yerevan staff visited Hye Geen Pregnant Women’s Center in Vanadzor to deliver colourful hats and blankets for new-borns, stitched with love and care by the women of New Jersey, US. The idea belonged to Mrs. Betty Cherkezian,
who previously had organized a similar donation
to the other two AGBU Hye Geen Centers in the
cities of Yeghvart and Talin.
It was very exciting to meet 23 young expectant
mothers, 13 of whom were about to become
mothers for the first time.
“Pregnant women receive a wide range of counselling. Topics vary from gynaecology to pre-and post natal care. We always consider the request of women
when choosing the topics of our weekly sessions. Most of the time they ask to
invite a psychologist,” mentioned Mrs. Melania Mirzoyan, the social worker of
the center. “Women like this center, because here they make friends and can get
together to discussion common issues”.
“If not for this center, we would have to look up answer on the Internet but it’s
really not the same”, said Lena Harutunyan, who started attending the Center in
March 2015. “It is very hard to filter the information on the Internet, but here
you can get the answer to your question”.
Founded in the city of Vanadzor in 2006, AGBU Hye Geen Pregnant Women’s
Center provides continuous free counselling and support to local pregnant women. From 2006 to today over 835 pregnant
women have attended the Center and more than 58 benefited from dental services - an extra service to the disadvantaged pregnant women who attend the Center in Vanadzor.
Page 35
SUMMER CAMPS
SCOUTS
DISCOVER ARMENIA
MUSICAL ARMENIA
INTERNSHIPS
AGBU
SUMMER PROGRAMS
2015
Get ready for your AGBU summer.
Visit the AGBU website at www.agbu.org
Choose a summer program and register today.
Spend the best summer of your life in 2015.
Join those, whose lives AGBU summer programs have already changed.
EXPLORE AGBU ARMENIA
Get the most up-to-date news, photos and videos about what’s happening!
agbu.org
agbu.am
agbu.org/yp/
agbu.org/armenia/scouts/
agbu-internship.org
discoverarmenia.org
aua.am
avc-agbu.org
/agbu.org
/AGBUyerevan
/ypyerevan
/AGBUvideo
/AGBUScoutYerevan
/AGBUYSIP
/AGBUDiscoverArmenia
/AmericanUniversityofArmenia
/ArmenianVirtualCollege
/agbuyerevan
Please be advised that in the event of any full or partial reference or citation of the texts above, AGBU Armenia Newsletter
must be mentioned. All rights reserved.
Established in 1906, AGBU (www.agbu.org) is the world's largest non-profit Armenian organization. Headquartered in New
York City, AGBU preserves and promotes the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian
programs, annually touching the lives of some 400,000 Armenians around the world.
ARMENIAN GENERAL BENEVOLENT UNION
NEW YORK
55 East 59th St.
New York, NY 10022-1112
Phone: (212) 319 6383
[email protected]
PREPARED BY AGBU ARMENIA
YEREVAN
2/2 Melik-Adamyan St.
Yerevan 0010, Armenia
Phone: (374 60) 72 22 22
[email protected]
Page 36

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