AGBU ARMENIA NEWSLETTER

Transcription

ARMENIAN GENERAL BENEVOLENT UNION
Yerevan, Armenia
IN THIS ISSUE
 State Commission on the 100th
Anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide (p. 1-2)
Issue 30, April - May, 2014
4TH SESSION OF THE STATE COMMISSION ON THE
100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
 Hayastan All-Armenian Fund
Holds its 23rd Session (p. 2)
 AGBU Launches New Scholarship Program (p. 3)
 Tumo-AGBU NKR Program
Underway of Launching (p. 4)
 AGBU Vahe Karapetyan Center (p. 4)
 AUA Commencement Ceremony 2014 (p. 5)
 Dr. Der Kiureghian Appointed
AUA Interim President (p. 6)
 AGBU Armenia Honors Armenian Genocide Victims (p. 6)
 International Delegation Marks
Armenian Genocide (p. 7-8)
 8th Republican Interschool
Chess Tournament Finals (p. 9)
The 4th session of the State Commission on Coordination on the events dedicated to the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide was held at Karen Demirch AGBU Paris Internship Proyan Sports and Concerts Complex on May 27. The session was presided over by the Chairman
gram (p. 10)
of the Commission and the President of the RA Serzh Sargsyan. The meeting was convened
 AGBU Armenian Virtual Colwith an expanded staff. Along with the committee members, the session was also attended by
lege (p. 11-13)
representatives of various regional committees dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Geno The Road to Integration (p. 14)
cide, experts, RA diplomatic representatives, Primates of the Armenian Apostolic Church
Dioceses, members of the clergy from the Armenian Catholicosate of the Great House of
 N.Nersoyan and H.Arslanyan
Cilicia, Armenian Catholic Church of Cilicia and the Armenian Evangelical World Council.
Receive State Awards (p. 15)
In his opening speech, RA President stated that following the first session, over the past three
 Robert Amirkhanian for
years, massive organizational and preparatory work has been carried out as part of the CentenKessab-Armenians (p. 15)
ary events of the Armenian Genocide both in Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora..
 AGBU Marseilles Chapter
Speeches were also made by NKR President Bako Sahakyan, His Holiness Karekin II, SuHelps Syrian-Armenians (p.16)
preme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the
Great House of Cilicia, Nerses Bedros XIX, the Catholic Patriarch of the House of Cilicia,
 Renaissance Festival (p. 16)
Hovel Mikayelyan, Chairman of the Armenian Evangelical World Council, Gagik Harutyun AGBU Yerevan Scouts (p. 17)
yan, President of RA Constitutional Court, Edward Nalbandyan, RA Minister of Foreign Af The Time of Jamanak (p. 18)
fairs, representatives of traditional parties - Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), Armenian Democratic Liberal Party (ADLP), Social Democrat Hnchakian Party (SDHP), as well
 Alexis Govciyan Elected
as leaders of the largest
Deputy Mayor (p. 19)
Pan-Armenian structures.
 AGBU Detroit School Visits
AGBU President Berge
Armenia (p. 19)
Setrakian’s message was
 AGBU Youth Programs (p. 20)
presented by AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian, who was present at the fourth
session of the State Commission on coordinating the events dedicated to the 100th anniversary
of the Armenian Genocide.
The participants of the session were also presented the logo of the 100th anniversary of the
Armenian Genocide, The Forget-Me-Not Flower, designed by a working group established
by the State Commission.
AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian (first from right)
(Continued on p. 2)
at the Armenian Genocide 100th Anniversary State Commission Session
Page 1
ISSUE 30, APRIL - MAY, 2014
4TH SESSION OF THE STATE COMMISSION...
(Continued from p. 1) The day before the session, a conference of regional committee leaders and representatives, on the Coordination of the events dedicated to the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, took place. Participants of the meeting visited the Tsitsernakaberd Complex and laid a wreath at the Genocide Memorial.
Vigen Sargsyan, Chief of Staff of RA President’s office,
member and coordinator of State Commission on Coordination of the events dedicated to the commemoration of the
100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
RA Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan, Director of Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute (AGMI) Hayk Demoyan,
representatives of regional committees – head of France Regional Committee Alexis Govciyan (AGBU Europe Chairman), Ara Torosyan, co-president of French-Armenian Organizations Coordinating Council in Paris, Berdj Terzian,
head of Egypt Regional Committee (AGBU Egypt District
Committee Chairman) and others. They presented works carried out, as well as upcoming project in the in various counKaren Demirchyan Complex Hosted the 4th Session of the
tries around the world, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of
State Commission on the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide
the Genocide.
MEETING OF THE HAYASTAN ALL-ARMENIAN FUND'S
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The 23rd session of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund's Board of Trustees took place on May 26, at the Government Reception
House, which was presided over by the President of the Board of Trustees and the President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan.
Prior to discussing the items on the agenda, the participants
congratulated the new ex officio board members – the President of the National Assembly of Armenia Galust Sahakyan,
Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan, the Minister of Finance
Gagik Khachatryan and the new representative of the Armenia Relief Society (ARS) Vigi Marashlyan, as well as Andranik Baghdasaryan, who has been appointed the affiliate
chairperson of the US Western District.
After adopting the agenda of the session and reviewing a film
about the 2013 activities financed by the Fund, the Board of
Trustees went on to discuss the items on the agenda as part of
which, the Fund’s Executive Director Ara Vardanyan presented the 2013 annual report.
Hayastan All-Armenian Fund Holds its 23rd Session
At the session, the target issue for the Hayastan All-Armenian
Fund’s “Marathon 2014” was discussed and adopted, which
was reported by NKR President Bako Sahakyan.
The previous day, the members of the Hayastan All-Armenian
Fund’s Board of Trustees met with RA Diaspora Minister Hranoush Hakobyan, who presented the activities carried out by
the RA Diaspora Ministry over the past five years and urged
the representatives of the Fund’s local chapters to collaborate
more efficiently and be involved in the projects carried out by
the Ministry.
Through a video, Chief of Staff of the RA Ministry of Diaspora Firdus Zakaryan, presented the initiatives taken by the
Ministry towards solving the issues faced by Syrian-ArmenHayastan Fund’s Trustees at the RA Diaspora Ministry
ians in Armenia.
Following the video the Executive Director of Hayastan All-Armenian Fund made a speech. Members of the Board of Trustees
of Hayastan All-Armenian Fund expressed their concerns, made their comments and suggestions. Summing up the meeting,
Hranush Hakobyan suggested that the Fund’s main and local chapters become a part of the information field, created by the
Ministry, to provide information on a regular basis and collaborate on implementing projects of pan-Armenian significance.
The Meeting ended with discussions.
Page 2
ARMENIA’S DEFENSE MINISTRY LAUNCHES NEW SCHOLARSHIP
PROGRAM WITH AGBU AND AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF ARMENIA
AGBU, the American University of Armenia (AUA), and Armenia’s Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces have launched a
new scholarship program that will serve soldiers and representatives of the military.
The initiative was officially announced at a recent meeting attended by AGBU Central Board member Vasken
Yacoubian, Armenia’s Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan and AUA president Dr. Bruce Boghosian. Together
at the ministry, they signed an agreement detailing the
different courses and activities that will be funded by
AGBU and implemented by AUA.
The program will provide new educational opportunities
to service members at every phase of their military career. It will include trainings for the ministry’s English
language teachers; classes for soldiers completing their
last six months of service; scholarships for ministry representatives enrolled in AUA’s undergraduate and graduate schools; as well as professional development courses
for military staff.
Agreement Signed Between RA Defense Ministry, AGBU and AUA
Small classroom sizes and an individualized approach
Over a Number of Educational Programs
will give each participant the attention they need. Enrollment will be no more than 18 students per course, and one-on-one mentoring will be incorporated into the curricula. Classes
focused on the GMAT, GRE, LSAT and TOEFL iBT exams will help prepare those pursuing higher education either at AUA or
international universities.
Mr. Yacoubian praised the venture, stating, “The Armed Forces is one of our nation’s key pillars and a source of pride and confidence for Armenians everywhere. We believe that this new program will further strengthen its efficiency and capabilities while
continuing to produce highly qualified officers and professionals. AGBU is very proud to play a role in it working alongside the
ministry and AUA.”
RA Defense Minister Seyran Ohanyan
AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian
These plans build on a longtime partnership between AGBU, AUA and the Ministry of Defense. A number of ministry members
are already enrolled in courses at the AUA Extension Program, among them a master’s degree candidate who is receiving full
funding from AGBU. The AUA Extension Program also currently offers a free Leadership and Management course, organized
by Dr. Arpie Balian, the Extension Program director, for cadets in the Vazgen Sargsyan Military Academy Officers’ Qualification Center. Established in May 2013, the course is now a part of the Academy’s Command Base curriculum and is offered to
middle and senior command staff.
Those officers are among the hundreds of students that AGBU supports around the world; for the 2013-2014 academic year, the
AGBU Scholarship Program distributed over $1.1 million to performing arts, religious studies and international students in
nearly 35 countries. To learn more about the AGBU Scholarship Program, visit www.agbu-scholarship.org.
To learn more about the American University of Armenia, visit www.aua.am.
For videos, please visit New Scholarship Program (H1) or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 3
TUMO-AGBU NKR PROGRAM FOR CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES
IS UNDERWAY OF LAUNCHING
On May 7, NKR Prime Minister Ara Harutyunyan received a joint delegation of the Armenian General Benevolent Union
(AGBU) and Tumo Center for Creative Technologies to discuss the prospects of establishing a Tumo program in the capital of
Artsakh. Present at the meeting were AGBU Central Board
Member Vasken Yacoubian, AGBU NKR Representative
Sassoun Baghdasaryan, Executive Director of Tumo Center
Marie Lou Papazian, Tumo Board Member Bekor Papazian
and the Chief of Staff of the NKR Government Levon Grigoryan. Prime Minister Harutyunyan emphasized the importance
of launching a Tumo program in Stepanakert and expressed
gratitude to AGBU for its readiness to finance the project. He
also pledged maximum support from the NKR Government to
launch the program as soon as possible. The NKR Government has already allocated the location for this program which
will be immediately modified and renovated in order to open
to the public in the coming September.
Speaking of the project AGBU Board Member Vasken Yacoubian said, “The establishment of a Tumo-AGBU NKR programm in Artsakh, fully funded by AGBU, will help the local
NKR Prime Minister Ara Harutyunyan
youth enrich their knowledge and improve their skills in the
Received the AGBU-Tumo Delegation
spheres of creative arts, communication and IT”.
AGBU Central Board member Joseph Oughourlian and AGBU Vice President Sam Simonian were the driving forces behind the
Tumo-AGBU NKR Program, which quickly drew the support of AGBU President Berge Setrakian and the entire AGBU board.
The news about the launching of new AGBU educational and cultural programs in Stepanakert was first announced during
AGBU’s 87th General Assembly in October 2012. These programs include among others American University of Armenia’s
Extension Program and Tumo Program for Creative Technologies. In 2013 AUA Extension Program already started operating in
Stepanakert offering certificate courses in Public Policy and Administration, Strategic Management, Tourism and Hospitality
Management, as well as English language and standardized test preparation. With additional seminars in career development,
resume writing and interviewing, it is helping to strengthen the NKR workforce, one of AGBU’s key goals for the project.
The Tumo-AGBU NKR Program for Creative Technologies will build on the success of the AUA Extension Program. Tumo
Center for Creative Technologies was opened in Yerevan in 2011. It provides free of charge courses of animation, computer
science, game development, website development and digital media to the children ages 12-16 after regular school hours. The
Center was established by Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Sylva Simonian and the Simonian Educational Foundation. AmericanArmenian benefactor Sam Simonian is also the Vice-President of the AGBU.
NEW AGBU VAHE KARAPETYAN CENTER
TO HOST DIASPORAN YOUTH IN YEREVAN
AGBU’s Armenia-based youth programs aim to foster
deep relations between participants through various
projects and initiatives. This summer will be a turning point for participants, as summer youth programs
will be centralized in one location in Yerevan. A new
center, made possible by benefactor Vahe Karapetian,
will offer youth and young adults the comfort of a
residence and a wide range of services.
AGBU Vahe Karapetyan Center
The AGBU Vahe Karapetian Center will comfortably
accommodate over 100 visitors and will function as a
dormitory as well as a venue for cultural and social
events. It will allow for exciting cross-cultural exchange, creating an even more unified network of
diasporan peers.
From the new center, participants in Discover Armenia, the Yerevan Summer Internship Program (YSIP), and the Musical Armenia Program (MAP) will be able to commute easily
to downtown Yerevan and to travel across the country. The center will officially open its doors on June 21, 2014 to welcome the
YSIP interns. MAP artists will join them on July 14 until both programs end at the beginning of August. For three weeks in August, the Discover Armenia group will also be able to enjoy the new facilities.
To learn more about AGBU’s summer 2014 programs, please visit www.agbu.org/summer 2014.
Page 4
AUA HONORS CLASS OF 2014 WITH 22ND COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
On May 31, the American University of Armenia (AUA) honored the graduating Class of 2014 with the annual Commencement
Ceremony. Approximately 1,000 people from the AUA community, including students, faculty, staff, parents, and supporters,
gathered in AUA’s Large Auditorium to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2014.
AUA President Dr. Bruce M. Boghosian welcomed guests to
the ceremony, acknowledging the wide scope of support that
AUA has received throughout its history, from the University
of California, the Republic of Armenia’s Ministry of Education and Science, the Armenian General Benevolent Union,
and the United States Government, as well as from the families
of students, and AUA faculty, staff, and alumni.
President Boghosian shares, ”AUA creates a new generation
of leaders with each graduating class, and this year has been
no different. It has been an honor to witness the growth and
accomplishments of the Class of 2014, and I am confident that
these students will go on to do great things in Armenia.”
Dr. Ann Karagozian, Member of the Board of Trustees and
former Chair of the Academic Senate of the University of
AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian Congratulates the Graduates
California Los
Angeles, and Ms. Karine Harutyunyan, Deputy Minister of the Republic of Armenia’s Ministry of Education and Science, both offered their congratulatory
remarks to the graduating Class of 2014.
Commencement addresses were given by AUAF Board trustee and former rector
of the State Engineering University of Armenia Dr. Yuri Sargsyan, and County
Supervisor of Santa Clara County, District Five, California and Former Senator
of California’s 11th State Senate District, Mr. S. Joseph Simitian. US Senator for
Illinois Mr. Richard Joseph Durbin also offered his congratulatory remarks to
students via a video message.
Valedictory addresses were given by students Lilit Tevosyan (LL.M. ’14) and
Sevan Adourian (TEFL ’14). Adourian, reflecting on the role that AUA has
played in her life, shared, “I believe that we are able to change our world for the
better now, because AUA has supported us with the knowledge and the human
values to create a brilliant future. Thank you AUA for being our agent of
change. We are proud to be members of this outstanding community.”
—————————————————————————————————————————————-
215 Students Graduated from AUA in 2014
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA), is a private, independent
university located in Yerevan, Armenia 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.
Page 5
MEMBER OF AUA’S FOUNDING FATHERS DR. ARMEN DER KIUREGHIAN
APPOINTED INTERIM PRESIDENT OF AUA
The American University of Armenia (AUA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Armen Der Kiureghian, one
of the founding fathers of AUA, founding dean of AUA’s College of Science and Engineering, former provost, and current member of the Board of Trustees, as Interim President beginning in July 2014. He will serve as Interim President for
one year while the search for a permanent AUA President is conducted.
Dr. Der Kiureghian is a professor “I think there is a very bright future for AUA and its
of Civil Engineering at the Univer- role in advancing Armenia. I am excited to be a
sity of California Berkeley. He is part of that future,” says Dr. Armen Der Kiureghian
an elected foreign member of the
National Academy of Sciences of Armenia and a member of the U.S. National
Academy of Engineering. He has been an active member of the AUA community since its establishment. He, along with Dr. Mihran Agbabian, Dr. Stepan Karamardian, and Dr. Yuri Sargsyan, played a key role in the foundation
of AUA in 1991.
Dr. Der Kiureghian shares, “I deeply care about AUA. In my opinion, it is the
most important contribution that the Diaspora has made to Armenia. I have
served sixteen years as the Founding Dean of Engineering and one year as the
Interim Provost under President Boghosian. I have also served as a member of
the Board of Trustees of the University since its inception. Now that there is
need for my services, I am happy to come back and join my former and new
colleagues to lead the University.”
Chairman of the Board of Trustees Dr. Lawrence Pitts shares, “The appointment is unanimously supported by Boards of Trustees of the AUA Corporation
and the AUA Fund. […] Dr. Der Kiureghian has served with distinction in a
number of capacities at AUA, most recently as AUA Interim Provost. He and
his wife have been to Armenia many times and I believe Dr. Der Kiureghian
will provide outstanding leadership of AUA with Dr. Boghosian’s departure
in July.”
Dr. Armen Der Kiureghian
Appointed AUA Interim President
AGBU ARMENIA PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE VICTIMS
Annually, on April 24th, Armenian
General Benevolent Union (AGBU)
members around the world commemorate the Armenian Genocide.
In Armenia, AGBU members visit
the Armenian Genocide Memorial
to honor the 1.5 million innocent
victims of the Armenian Genocide.
This year, AGBU Yerevan-based
Members, Staff and Scouts
marched to the Genocide Memorial
on Tsitsernakabert Hill in Yerevan.
Led by AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian, AGBU Armenia Interim Director Hovig Eordekian, former AGBU Western
District Committee Chairman Haig
Messerlian and AGBU Diaspora
Youth Programs Coordinator in
Armenia Herminé Duzian, and carrying the flags of the Republic of
AGBU Armenia Leaders, Members, Staff and Scouts Commemorate the Genocide Victims
Armenia and AGBU Scout Movement, the group laid a wreath and flowers at the Eternal Flame to honor the memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide.
Page 6
COMMEMORATING THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
AGBU Europe, EGAM, DurDe and IHD
Hold a Series of Events in Istanbul and Yerevan
For the second consecutive year, AGBU Europe, EGAM (European Grassroots Antiracist Movement) from France and Turkish
DurDe (Say Stop to Racism and Nationalism) and IHD, a Turkish Human Rights Association, initiated a series of events in Istanbul and Armenia to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. Headed by these organizations, thousands gathered at Istanbul's
Taksim Square on April 24 to pay tribute to the victims of the Armenian Genocide by Ottoman Turkey. Following the events in
Turkey, members of the international delegation headed to Armenia to visit the Genocide Memorial and Museum, meet with
non-governmental organizations dealing with Armenian-Turkish relations and share their impressions and opinions during a
press conference.
On April 25, a delegation of 10 people representing AGBU
Europe, EGAM, DurDe and IHD arrived in Yerevan. The
series of commemoration events in Armenia began with a
press conference by Benjamin Abtan, President of EGAM
(France), Levent Şensever (DurDe, Turkey), Diana Hancaro
(Hayk, Germany) and Hovik Eordekian, Interim Director of
AGBU Armenia, at Armenpress Press Club on April 26.
More and More People Gather at Istanbul’s Taksim Square
“It’s the second year that AGBU Europe, together with Turkish and European human rights organizations and NGOs,
organizes a series of events in Turkey to commemorate the
Armenian Genocide. The events attract more and more people, who come united for justice, human rights protection and
recognition of the Armenian Genocide”, said Hovik Eordekian.
EGAM President Benjamin Abtan said, “We are very often
Armenian Genocide Commemorated in Istanbul, Turkey
asked, why we, being non-Armenians, seek recognition of the
Armenian Genocide. The answer is very simple: Genocide is not an issue of one nation or one ethnic group, it’s an issue for all
mankind. Fighting against Genocide denial we fight against Genocide. Genocide denial is the main ideology of the Turkish government. But there are individuals and organizations in Turkey that have their own opinion on this and are by our side.” Speaking of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent statement Abtan said, “Erdogan’s statement means nothing to
me. Of course, the tone is different, but there is denial in the statement, which is already violence against history and against
mankind. No society is strong enough to stop the movement
that is uprising in Turkey and no country is naive enough to
be misled by Erdogan’s statement and ignore the facts”. Abtan stated that he expressed the same ideas and used the same
words in Turkey.
Answering a question about the lack of confidence and trust
among Armenian society towards Turkish organizations, representative of DurDe Levent Şensever said, “There has been
complete silence over this issue in Turkey for over 90 years
and this is serious grounds for non-confidence towards similar Turkish organizations. We understand that. Today, we
have a serious issue of convincing even the smartest and most
advanced members of Turkish society that the Armenian
Genocide in fact did happen. We – those who recognized the
Armenian Genocide – are still a minority in Turkish society”.
Speaking about compensation Şensever stated, “We have
International Delegation Holds a Press Conference in Yerevan
started working with a number of Diasporan-Armenian organizations and some of them have began operating in Turkey. A 10-point document representing the claims of the Diaspora
Armenians, including the right to citizenship, property, recognition, apology, etc had been discussed during a recent conference”.
(Continued on p. 8)
Page 7
COMMEMORATING THE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE...
(Continued from p. 7) Say Stop to Racism and Nationalism (DURDE!) was founded in 2007, after the assassination of Hrant Dink,
the main objective of which is carrying out various campaigns to help the 1915 events be recognized as Genocide and make Turkey apologize for it. Sensever mentions that the number of people gathering in Taksim Square of Istanbul to commemorate the
victims of the Genocide is growing year by year since 2011.
During the press conference, Diana Hancaro, representative
of AGBU Europe and Haik organization, who is a descendant of Genocide survivors, stated that the main aim of
AGBU Europe is the worldwide recognition of the Genocide. “I live in Germany, my ancestors had lived in Istanbul
and migrated to Europe during the years of the Genocide.
This is the first time I am in Armenia yet I feel like I have
returned to my family. ”
After the press conference, members of the delegation visited the Tsitsernakabert Memorial and laid flowers at the
eternal fire, commemorating the victims of the Armenian
Genocide and with a minute of silence honored the victims.
Laying Flowers at the Armenian Genocide Memorial
Later on they toured with the temporary exhibition, entitled The First World War, Partners, Figures, Massacres
dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the First World War
at the museum’s temporary exhibition hall. European and
Turkish public figures met with Genocide Museum Director Hayk Demoyan and discussed the possibilities of organizing exhibitions dedicated to the Armenian Genocide, as
well as academic discussions in Istanbul.
Meeting with Hayk Demoyan,
Director of the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute
On the same day, a meeting with a number of NGOs, politicians and speakers on Turkish issues took place at AGBU
Armenia. Issues dealing with the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, participation of different Armenian NGO’s in
the commemoration events organized in Istanbul each year,
encouraging Turkish civil society to recognize the Armenian
Genocide, as well as Turkish internal policies were discussed
during the meeting. Members of the delegation later visited
the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and toured Yerevan.
It’s worth mentioning, that a
number of European, Turkish,
Kurdish and Armenian public
figures, intellectuals and representatives of civil society have
signed the joint petition of
AGBU Europe, EGAM, DurDE
and IHD.
Meeting with Armenian NGO Leaders and Representatives
For videos please visit
ArmNews TV,
Yerkir Media TV,
Lime TV
or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
International Delegation at the AGBU Yerevan Office
Page 8
ARTSAKH HOSTED THE FINALS OF THE
8TH REPUBLICAN INTERSCHOOL CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP
Having kept the chess-loving Nation and its schoolchildren in suspense for almost
8 months, the 8th Chess Interschool Tournament finally came to an end. From May
5-8, the finals of the 8th Republican Chess Tournament took place in Stepanakert.
After an intense and relentless struggle, only 72 participants from initial 15,000 (18
teams, 4 participants in each) moved on to the final round. These 18 teams competed for the coveted first place and prizes. As well as the competition, the children
took part in a series of trainings and visits organized by the RA Chess Academy.
Over the last few years, the regional schools have stepped up their game and become more competitive, offering effective resistance to the Yerevan schools. The
failure of the previous year had significantly shaken up the Yerevan teams. This
year they took First and Third places in the Republican Interschool Chess Olympiad.
The results of the 8th Chess Championship are as follows: Yerevan school N 119
took Third place, Abovyan School N 4 took Second and the team from Yerevan’s
N 2 High School with Arshak Avetisyan, Susanna Gaboyan, Siranuysh Ghukasyan
and Arman Mikayelyan and Coach Vahan Abrahamyan became the winners of the
championship. It’s worth mentioning, that this year’s winners had previously taken
second place at last year’s competition, while the team from the Artashat high
school had taken First.
The top individual winners were Arman Mikayelyan, Edward Mkrtchyan, Alfred
Parvanyan and Siranuysh Ghukasyan.
“We leave Artsakh with great memories. We spent wonderful days here and our
victory filled our hearts with more enthusiasm. We are proud to be among the win- 72 Participants Competed in the Final Round
ners and we want to thank all the organizers and sponsors for this wonderful event,” said Siranuysh.
NKR President Bako Sahakyan, RA Minister of Education and
Science Armen Ashotyan, AGBU Central Board Member
Vasken Yacoubian, President of the Armenian Chess Academy Smbat Lputyan, President of NKR Chess Federation Arthur Mkrtumyan were all present at the NKR finals of the tournament.
“This initiative is part of a bigger chess project, which has
already shown its positive results not only within schools but
all over the Republic, becoming one of the most successful
youth projects of independent Armenia,” said Vasken
Yacoubian.
The prize fund is provided by AGBU. Participants of the tournament received prizes and presents from AGBU, RA and
NKR Chess Federations in the final phase. The winners of the
tournament received laptops. 2nd and 3rd place winners received monetary awards. The best individual winners as well
as the members and coaches of the first three teams received
prizes. The most active schools received projectors.
Winners of the Tournament: A. Avetisyan, S. Gaboyan, S. Ghukasyan,
A. Mikayelyan and Their Coach V. Abrahamyan Together with the
Organizers and Sponsors of the Interschool Olympiad
AGBU has been a tournament sponsor for the past seven
consecutive years, organized by The Chess Academy and
RA Ministry of Education and Science.
Interest for this sport has grown immensely, especially
among children. This is a direct result of Chess having
become a compulsory part of the High School curriculum.
The tournament has opened up doors for a number of
young people info professional chess. More than 15.000
children aged 7-17 yea from more than 1000 of schools
participate in the tournament each year.
For videos please visit
Final Round of Republican Chess Tournament (H1)
Artsakh Hosted the Final Round of the 8th Republican Chess Tournament
Page 9
FRENCH LEADING ORGANIZATIONS RECEIVED UFAR STUDENTS
IN THE FRAMES OF AGBU FRANCE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) and French University in Armenia have been cooperating for almost a decade. Thanks to AGBU’s financial support, more than 80 students have carried out internships at prominent organizations in
Paris, Lyon, Valance and Grenoble.
Between March 22nd and April 19th of this year, nine 4th year
UFAR students carried out their internships in France thanks
to the support of both AGBU France District and Lyon Chapter, as well as the chapter’s former Vice-Chair Jacques Garabedian.
One of the interns, Mariam Badunts, had the chance to intern
at Grant Thornton one of the largest independent audit, tax
and advisory firms. Founded in 1924 in Chicago, Grant
Thornton has a staff of 38,000 operating in 120 countries.
Very few are lucky enough to intern at such an organization
and Mariam was one of these lucky few.
Anzhelika Ishkhanyan, carried out her internship at the EsUFAR Students Interned in Some of France’s Leading Organizations
trade, Azad and Harutyunyan law firm. Another law firm
Arapian et autres welcomed Elen Sahradyan. This is a unique opportunity for students
of the French University’s Law Department to observe the French juridical system and
visit the Paris Justice Chamber, as well attend court sessions and hearings.
Anna Aturyan shared her impressions of the program, ”I spent my internship in
DAMARIS SA in Lyon, which is one of the leading IT companies. I was responsible for
the preparation of the promotional brochures for the company, which gave me an opportunity to be involved in researching the market and marketing strategy. This was a
unique opportunity for me to strengthen my knowledge, gain extensive experience and
get to know the French culture and working environment. I am very grateful to the
French University of Armenia, DAMARIS SA, represented by Aramazd Abedi and to
the Armenian General Benevolent Union and especially Jacques Garabedian for his
great support. ”
Two more students from the French University of Armenia Isabel Ter-Poghosyan and
Voctoria Grigoryan carried out their internship at Orange in Grenoble. Iren Ananyan,
Lilit Sargsyan and Satenik Nubaryan were also among the UFAR interns, who carried
out their internships at EDF Commerce, Keolis Transportation in Lyion and CMS Bureau Francis Lefebvre law firm respectively.
Participants of the Internship program received an opportunity to visit the National
Assembly, RA Embassy in France, Permanent Representation of NKR in France,
AGBU Nubarian Library, Versailles, Louvre and Orsey, as well as to improve their
knowledge of French, sample French cuisine, meet representatives of the Armenian
Community in France and make friends with their peers, living in the heart of Europe.
Elen Sahradyan at the Komitas Statue
in Paris
Participants of the program have already returned to Armenia and on May 22, AGBU
Armenian representation welcomed the interns. They spoke about their experiences in Paris and expressed their gratitude to AGBU for
this wonderful opportunity.
AGBU and UFAR have also collaborated on other projects.
Since 2007, UFAR students have been receiving AGBU
scholarships of excellence. More than 150 students have
benefited from these scholarships. AGBU has also funded
the renovation and construction of a library at UFAR.
AGBU is thankful to all the organizations, which welcome
UFAR students as part of the AGBU Internship Program.
To learn more about the AGBU Internship programs, please
visit www.agbu.org/education/internships/
AGBU France Internship Program Participants at AGBU Yerevan Office
Page 10
BRAZIL AND DENMARK: THE NEXT TWO DESTINATIONS OF AGBU AVC
AGBU Armenian Virtual College (AVC) expands the scope and geography of its activities. AVC Founder and President Dr.
Yervant Zorian travels to the Armenian communities of the world presenting the history, programs and achievements of the first
Armenian virtual college. The two recent destinations were the Armenian communities of Brazil and Denmark.
The AGBU Sao Paulo Chapter recently hosted Dr. Zorian and
BRAZIL organized a public event to introduce AVC to the local Armenian youth. With a large number of attendees, the public event
was a major success. The AGBU Sao Paolo Chapter Chairman
Helio Balukian opened the event by emphasizing the importance
of Armenian education and welcoming Dr. and Mrs. Zorian. By
demonstrating examples of lessons and virtual classroom types,
Dr. Zorian introduced the concept of AVC and its operational
model. He also leveraged the opportunity to demonstrate the first
Dr. Zorian at Tourian School
innovate multimedia e-book: the Armenian Highland, and emphasized on AVC’s new direction to expand to potential scholars, beyond its traditional students’ base. Mariana Mekbekian,
one of AVC’s former students shared her positive experiences
with the audience and Hrair Chahinian, from the AGBU Sao
Paulo Board highly appraised the major contributions of AVC
General Public Attending AVC Presentation in Sao Paulo
to Armenian education around the world. The public event was
attended by Dirouhi Bourmaian, Republic of Armenia’s Consul and Krikor Manukian, former chairman of AGBU Sao Paulo.
Dr. Zorian also had the opportunity to meet with the primate of Brazil, Archbishop Datev Karibian and the principle of the Tourian School, Fr. Yeznig Guzelian. For the last several years, the Tourian school has adopted the AVC hybrid model to teach Armenian language and history to its students. As Dr. Zorian stated, the successful use of the AVC hybrid curriculum by the Tourian school can serve as an example for other Armenian schools. The Tourian school has recently extended its use of AVC
courses to educate parents and other adult members of the community. At the end of his visit Dr. Zorian was interviewed by
Sarkis Karamekian for Radio Armenia Eterna in Sao Paulo. Rafael Balukian, one of the most active members of the AGBU Sao
Paulo board, agreed to act as an official AVC representative to help with the future adoption of AVC in Brazil.
During a recent trip to Denmark, Dr. Zorian had the opportunity to meet with
several local Armenian organizations and discuss their scope and activities.
Among these organizations was Amstream, a youth organization aimed at creating an innovative pipeline for streaming opportunities between Denmark and
Armenia in the areas of education, science, business and culture. Tatevik Revazian, Managing Director of Amstream, discussed the set of current projects
and the plans for the forthcoming ones. Dr. Zorian in turn discussed the wide
range of AGBU youth programs and their benefits to the Amstream team as well
as the youth in Demark. He also presented the plans of the AVC and discussed
its potential impact on the youth in Denmark. “An institution like AVC based on
recent technological innovations was a great achievement for Armenia; Armenians around the world could benefit immensely from AVC’s online courses and
other programs,” said Tatevik. Taking into account the innovative approach
adopted by AVC and the effective infusion of technology in education, Tatevik
invited AVC to take part in Europe’s largest general science event, EuroScience
Open Forum (ESOF) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2014. Subsequently, AVC, along with two other companies from Armenia, will have the honor of
representing Armenian’s innovative approach to education at the ESOF. Dr.
Zorian also met representatives of DanArmen the mainstream Armenian comDr. Zorian Meets Amstream Representatives
munity organization. Vice President, Anna Karapetian, presented the activities
Headed by Tatevik Revazian in Copenhagen
of their organization and discussed the educational needs of the Armenian community. Dr. Zorian described the AVC project and agreed that it was an excellent choice for this community. With around 3,000
Armenians in Denmark, the growing educational needs of the Armenian community can be seamlessly met through AVC’s innovative teaching approach. The AVC hybrid program, a successful synthesis of the online and onsite teaching, could be utilized
to gather local Armenians under one roof. Thus, the AVC online education program would be provided accompanied by a local
teacher onsite. Subsequently, the hybrid method of teaching can be very effective for the Armenians of Denmark.
DENMARK
Page 11
AGBU ARMENIAN VIRTUAL COLLEGE
MULTIMEDIA E-BOOK SERIES
AGBU AVC ANNOUNCES ENROLLMENT
FOR SUMMER TERM 2014
The AGBU Armenian Virtual College (AVC) is pleased to announce the opening of its enrollment period for Summer Term
2014. The following courses are offered in multiple languages (including Eastern Armenian, Western Armenian, English,
French, Russian, Spanish and Turkish) and on multiple levels:
 Eastern Armenian;
 Western Armenian;
 History of Armenia;
 Introduction to Armenian Architecture;
 Introduction to Armenian Music;
 Chess Program.
The classes start on July 21, and end on September 23.
For enrollment, please visit the AVC portal at www.avc-agbu.org, create your log-in and submit your enrollment application.
The enrollment closes on July 6, 2014.
Page 12
AVC'S MULTIPLE OPPORTUNITIES
CONNECT ARMENIANS
Narine Stepanian, a Los Angeles based attorney, has worked on a number of Armenian political asylum cases from
around the world, including Turkey and the republics of the former Soviet Union. She admits that she handles those
cases with extra zeal, in order to have the courts recognize the persecution that Armenians had suffered on the basis
of their ethnicity and religion.
Narine was born in Baku, Azerbaijan, where her family had lived for
generations. As in other parts of the Soviet Union, where national minorities spoke only Russian, Narine did not know Armenian while they
lived in Baku. Moreover, she experienced discrimination against Armenians both in Azerbaijan and Russia.
She jokingly admits that fighting for her Armenian identity "has built
my character, and maybe that is why I am a lawyer today." In 1991,
Narine and her family moved to San Francisco, where there was not a
large Armenian community.
She earned her bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley. In 2001, she obtained a Juris Doctorate from Hastings Law School. She worked for a
number of law firms until 2005, when she founded her own law firm.
In 2008, Narine met her husband, Gilbert and the couple relocated
to Los Angeles in order to be closer to the large Armenian diaspora
there. She credits her husband with teaching her to speak Armenian and
with encouraging her to take Armenian language courses. Narine and
Gilbert have three children: Edward, Robert and Christina. Narine's
children attend a local Armenian pre-school, where they are learning
Armenian.
Narine Stepanyan with her Husband and Children
"I have read Raffi and Charents all in Russian and it bothered me that I was not able to read them in Armenian,"
says Narine. "My four year old boy, Edward, can read in Armenian now and he even does math in Armenian!"
After having children, Narine learned to read Armenian on her own in order to be able to read children's books to her
children every night. In the beginning, she would practice reading a book ahead of time in order to read it fluently in
front of her children.
After extensive online searches, Narine came across the Armenian Virtual College and immediately signed up for
the Armenian language course. That was in April of 2013, and she has already completed three courses of Eastern
Armenian. She says that she also intends to take Armenian literature courses.
Narine thinks that language is the key in understanding one's culture. "Culture is a treasure box, and language is the
key to open it. I think it is the first thing you lose when you begin losing your ethnic identity," adds Narine. "If you do
not learn the language you begin to lose that connection with other Armenians anywhere around the world, and you
just don't relate in the same way."
Narine says that AVC gave her the tools to learn Armenian and expand her vocabulary. She believes that AVC gives
Armenians all around the world a lifeline - an opportunity to preserve one's Armenian identity, and to protect it from
assimilation.
————————————————————————
ABOUT AVC
Initiated by the AGBU Silicon Valley Chapter, the Armenian Virtual College (AVC) is one of the world’s leading online higher
education institutions in Armenian Studies. Launched in 2009, AVC classes are open to anyone who is interested in Armenian
studies. AVC courses in Armenian language, history, culture and chess are offered in seven languages of instruction: Western
and Eastern Armenian, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish.
AVC delivers a virtual classroom to students who do not have access to traditional, face-to-face Armenian educational programs, while supplementing the curriculum of those who do. Lessons are tailored to each student’s individual needs - regardless
of their age, country of residence or knowledge level - to ensure that all can benefit from this unique resource.
With the latest advances in the world of virtual education, AVC’s mission is to create a virtual learning community that fosters
cultural, education and social ties across the globe. To date, approximately 3,000 students have enrolled from over 65 countries,
getting an Armenian education - anytime, anywhere!
Page 13
THE ROAD TO INTEGRATION CONFERENCE
OPENS NEW INTEGRATION PROSPECTS FOR DISPLACED SYRIAN FAMILIES
SEEKING PROTECTION IN ARMENIA
A conference entitled The Road to Integration was held at the AUA Business Center in Yerevan on April 28. The one-day Conference aimed at better understanding and representing the interests of families displaced by the conflict in Syria and seeking
protection in Armenia was organized by the Syrian-Armenian Relief Coordination Center (SARCC) NGO as part of a project
funded by the United Nations High Commissioner for
Refugees (UNHCR) in Armenia.
The participants of the Conference, including the main
guests, Ms. Hranush Hakobyan, the Minister of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia (RA), Mr. Levon
Sargsyan, Ambassador at large and Pyunik NGO President, Mr. Christoph Bierwirth, UNHCR Armenia Representative, Mr. Vasken Yacoubian, AGBU Central
Board Member, Sergey Manasaryan, Deputy Foreign
Minister of RA, other government authorities, representatives of diplomatic missions, local and international organizations as well as Syrian-Armenian businessmen, doctors, scholars and artisans, discussed issues related to integration: the success and challenges
faced by the vulnerable displaced Syrian-Armenian
families in their legal, socio-economic and cultural
integration in the host country, Armenia.
Discussing the Challenges Faced by Displaced Syrian-Armenian Families
The Conference granted an opportunity to the parties to not only present their accomplishments but to mutually identify the gaps
hindering the integration process of the displaced families, namely, language barriers and cultural peculiarities; limited chances
of well-paid employment, income generation prospects, in remote regions, in particular, the harsh socio-economic environment
the Syrian-Armenians are not used to as well as the local business and taxation practice they are still unfamiliar with.
The participants were however glad to note that the displaced families felt safe in Armenia and expressed gratitude for the emergency response and various assistance efforts undertaken by the Government of Armenia, namely, the Ministry of Diaspora and
the State Migration Service, other entities, such as the State Employment Service Agency, Small and Medium Entrepreneurship
Development National Center of Armenia; the Church and the Armenian Diaspora; international and local organizations, such as
UN Agencies: UNHCR, WFP and UNICEF, AGBU SARCC, Mission Armenia, The Armenian Red Cross Society, AMAA,
Armenia Caritas and many local Armenian individuals.
After a brief introduction by Lena Halajian, Director of SARCC, RA Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan delivered an opening speech. Other speakers at the conference included UNHCR Representative in Armenia Mr. Christoph Bierwirth, AGBU
Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian, Head of the Near and Middle East Department of the Diaspora Ministry Lusine Stepanyan, Senior Researcher of the RA National Academy of Sciences Eduard Melkonian, and others.
The participants emphasized the crucial need
for continuous targeted assistance - in particular
for persons who had been recently displaced
and often arrived in the most destitute conditions - in the areas of housing solutions and
livelihoods, in particular. The brainstorming
and discussion continued in an inviting work
environment resulted in several key recommendations suggested by the participants by the end
of the Conference.
After the final presentations and discussions,
the participants of the conference came up with
suggestions, short and long term solutions and
distributed responsibilities to achieve their set
goals.
The Road to Integration: Conference Dedicated to Syrian-Armenian Relief Efforts
For videos please visit Road to Integration (H1), Road to Integration (ArmNews TV), Road to Integration (Armenia TV)
Page 14
NERSES NERSOYAN AND HENRY ARSLANIAN
RECEIVED RA PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS
On May 23rd the Presidential Award Ceremony took place to coincide with Armenia’s Republic Day. Among the winners were
two distinguished AGBU members. By the decree of the President of the Republic of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, Nerses Nersoyan, AGBU Syria District Committee Chairman was awarded the Movses Khorenatsi Medal and Henry Arslanian, AGBU
Aleppo AYA Executive Committee
Chairman, the Mkhitar Gosh medal for
their considerable contribution to the
preservation of the Armenian Identity
as well as supporting the development
of Armenia-Diaspora relations.
Nerses Nersoyan
Nerses Nersoyan a prominent figure in
the Syrian Armenia community is an
agricultural specialist who graduated
from the American University of Beirut. Nersoyan has been a top manager
at the ICARDA agricultural company
in Aleppo for many years and has
played a significant role in AGBU and
AYA by holding a number of executive positions. He has been the Chairman of the AGBU Syria District Committee since 2009 and has played a
crucial part in coordinating the activities of AGBU’s Syrian-Armenian relief projects as well as the SyrianArmenian Emergency and Recovery
Fund.
Henry Arslanian
Henry Arslanian, a long standing member and a leading figure in AGBU and AGBU-AYA has been the Executive Committee
Chairman since 2012. Arslanian is an architect and a graduate of the State University of Aleppo. He has also held various positions within the Union’s audit and accounting departments. He has made a significant contribution to organizing AGBU’s youth
and sports activities and played an important role in carrying out aid projects for Syrian-Armenians specifically AleppoArmenians.
EVENING WITH ROBERT AMIRKHANYAN
IN SUPPORT OF KESSAB-ARMENIANS
The Armenian General Benevolent Union seizes every opportunity to help Syrian-Armenians in any way possible. Over the last
two years, through AGBU’s efforts and financial assistance, Syrian-Armenian families who have moved to Armenia have received warm clothes and medicine, food and agricultural equipment, apartment rent and tuition fees. As part of the assistance
projects AGBU has also organized cultural events. AGBU’s most recent initiatives to help the Armenians of Kessab was a charity concert by prominent Armenian composer Robert Amirkhanyan at the Aram Khachaturyan Concert Hall on April 29. All
proceeds from the concert went to the Kessab relief fund.
Along with his old and beloved favorites Amirkhanyan
also performed new songs. Guest performers at the concert were Seda Amir-Garayan (Germany) and the
“Zoravan” choir of the RA Defense Ministry Officers’
House.
The concert was attended by AGBU Central Board Members Vasken Yacoubian and Dr. Yervant Zorian, AGBU
Armenia Interim Director Hovik Eordekian, AGBU members, artists, Syrian-Armenians, guests.
Robert Amirkhanyan and Seda Amir-Garayan:
Concert for Kessab-Armenians
AGBU extends its gratitude to the Aram Khachaturyan
Concert Hall administration, VIVA-Cell MTS mobile operator, Yerevan State Conservatory, Ameria Bank, Yerevan State College of Pop and Jazz Art, Armenian Public
Radio as well as other organizations and individuals who
contributed to the implementation of this initiative.
Page 15
AGBU MARSEILLES CHAPTER JOINS AGBU’S MAJOR
RELIEF EFFORTS TO HELP SYRIAN-ARMENIANS
As part of the assistance program to Syrian-Armenians forced
to relocate to Armenia, AGBU Marseilles Chapter initiated the
donation of another set of clothes to Syrian-Armenian families
in need. Packages of high quality clothes and shoes for people
of all ages were sent to the AGBU Armenia, which, in turn,
gave them to the Syrian-Armenian Relief Coordination Center
NGO to organize and control the distribution process.
About 200 Syrian-Armenians received clothes thanks to this
joint initiative of French Hope for Armenia organization,
AGBU Marseilles Chapter and AGBU Armenia.
AGBU Marseilles will continue implementing programs aimed
at helping the Syrian-Armenian families that have suffered
from the civil war in Syria.
AGBU Marseilles Sends Clothes to Syrian-Armenians
RENAISSANCE 6TH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
BRINGS TOGETHER 3000 PARTICIPANTS FROM 30 COUNTRIES
Once again Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city, hosted the annual Renaissance Festival, which over the last 5 years
has seen a significant growth in both the numbers of participants and their countries.
The 6th International Renaissance Contest-Festival gathered more than 3000 participants from over 30 countries
around the world, including Artsakh, France, USA, South Korea, Russia, Sudan, China, Syria, Georgia, Austria, Lebanon, Spain, etc. This year’s events were dedicated to Armen Tigranyan’s 135th and Sergey Rakhmaninov’s 140th anniversaries, as well as the 20th anniversary of the ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Artsakh conflict.
Prominent performers and renowned artists, including
pianist Yuri Margoulis (USA), pianist Mikhail Mordvinov (Germany), cellist Lev Evgrafov (Russia), opera
singer Zurab Sotkilava (Georgia), composer Evgeni
Kostitsyn (Russia), conductor Bardia Kiaras (Iran) and
others, were among the Festival’s jury members.
In addition to the competition, Festival participants attended or performed in concerts and had the opportunity to attend Master Classes by famous maestros and
artists in Gyumri and Yerevan. The Cultural Dialogue:
Armenia and the World Culture conference was held as
part of the Festival. The guests also visited historical
and cultural monuments across Armenia.
This year the competition was held in eleven categories
and five age groups. The most outstanding performers
Gyumri Hosts the Annual Renaissance Festival
received 1st, 2nd and 3rd place medals, Diplomas and
titles of Laureate and special prizes established in the names of prominent Armenian musicians.
Renaissance international contest-festival of musician-performers is held under the high patronage of the First Lady of
the Republic of Armenia, Mrs. Rita Sargsyan. The organizers of the festival are RA Culture Ministry, Pyunik AllArmenian Fund for Human Resources Development and the Gyumri branch of the Yerevan State Conservatory (YSC).
The Armenian General Benevolent Union is among the sponsors of the Festival
Promotion of classical art, creation of new ties, strengthening and expansion of cooperation, dissemination of the Armenian culture and creation of new opportunities for young and talented musicians are just some of the goals pursued
by the organizers of this festival.
For years, AGBU has provided financial support to the Gyumri Academy of Art, where the Gyumri branch of the Komitas State Conservatory is situated along with the Film and Theatre State Institute and the Academy of Fine Arts.
Page 16
AGBU YEREVAN SCOUTS: FLOWERS RECYCLING AND A 3-DAY CAMPING
AGBU Yerevan Scouts continue its active lifestyle, true to their oath and faith. This time the AGBU Yerevan Scouts didn’t miss
the opportunity to take part in the process of recycling flowers at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial. For the fourth consecutive
year, on several days following April 24, the Foundation for Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets in cooperation with
“VivaCell-MTS” telecom operator carry out the recycling process of the gathered flowers at the Genocide Memorial. Instead of
burning or throwing the gathered flowers, almost two tons of weight, they are brought to second life. With the help of a number
of non-profit organizations and volunteers the stems and petals of the flowers are carefully separated. The stems serve as fertilizer and the petals are used for making cards and letters of acknowledgement. The AGBU Yerevan Scout group brings its active
participation in this environmental and useful initiative.
Scouts Took Part in Flowers Recycling at Genocide Memorial
From May 9-11, the AGBU Yerevan Scouts left for Lori region to organize the following three-day camping. The group of 50
scouts left from the AGBU and Holy See of Etchmiadzin’s Arabkir Children’s Center early in the morning. Reaching the camp,
the scouts put up tents and initiated the cleaning of the area. Later on, they cooked the dinner and after having dinner, they
started lessons and exercises. They also prepared the mast with two flags flying around. In the evening the scouts gathered
around the fire and had talk, jokes, sang and danced. In the frames of a tree-day camping different games and hikes were also
organized. Three more days of active leisure will always remain in the memories of the scouts. The primary and most expected
event of the year “Antranik” Scout Camp is still ahead, which brings more than 300 AGBU scouts from all over the world to
Armenia.
3-Day Camping at Lermontovo
Page 17
THE TIME OF JAMANAK DOCUMENTARY
SCREENED AT AGBU ARMENIAN REPRESENTATION
Jamanak daily published in Istanbul, is the oldest Armenian daily newspaper in the world with an uninterrupted record of 106
years of publication. The newspaper, founded by renowned Turkish-Armenian writer and publicist Misak (Kasim) Kochounian,
whose descendants have continued his work generation after generation, has recently marked is centennial milestone. A documentary called The Time of Jamanak presenting the history of the Turkish-Armenian newspaper has been produced by screenwriter Tigran Paskevichian and director Ara Shirinian as part of the centennial celebrations of the daily. The film was produced
in four languages: Armenian, English, French and Turkish.
On May 16, RA Culture Ministry and AGBU organized a joint screening of the film at AGBU Armenia. More than 150 historians, bibliographers, cultural figures, journalists and guests attended the event. Opening remarks were made by AGBU Armenia
Interim Director Hovik Eordekian. “AGBU could not abstain from the jubilee celebrations of Jamanak daily, which has had a
significant role in the chronology of Armenian publications”, said Eordekian and invited Tigran Paskevichian to briefly present
the history behind the preparation of the film. Paskevichian also spoke about the role of the film in the preservation of the Armenian identity, language and media.
Ara Kochounian Presenting Souvenirs
to AGBU Representatives
Kochounian with the Authors of the Film
Tigran Paskevichyan and Ara Shirinyan
(l.-r.) Sevan Deyirmenjian, Hovig Eordekian
and Ara Kochounian
Speeches continued after the screening of the hour-long film. Editor-in-Chief of Azg weekly Hakob Avetikian spoke about the
past and the present of Jamanak both as a Diaspora-Armenian newspaper and as a Turkish-Armenian phenomenon. The last
person to take to the stage was Ara Kochounian, Editor-in-Chief of Jamanak. He represents the fourth generation of the Kochounian dynasty after the foundation of Jamanak. He expressed his gratitude to the authors of the film, the AGBU, the Ministry
of Culture and Armenia, as well as all those who had contributed to the newspaper and its centennial celebrations.
Ara Kochounian presented souvenirs to AGBU Central Board Member Vasken Yacoubian, AGBU Armenia Interim Director
Hovik Eordekian and the authors of the film. Hovik Eordekian, in turn, presented the two-volume History of AGBU book to Ara
Kochounian.
For videos please visit Time of Jamanak (ShoghakatTV), Time of Jamanak (CivilNet) or www.youtube.com/AGBUvideo
Page 18
AGBU EUROPE CHAIRMAN ALEXIS GOVCIYAN
WINS THE PARIS MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS
Alexis Govciyan, AGBU Europe Chairman, one of the heads of the Coordinating Council of Armenian Organizations in
France, member of Il de France Regional Committee, as well as President of the Regional Committee of France on the
100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide (Mission 2015), won the city elections of the 9th district of Paris on March
30. As part of an alliance formed between the right wing
parties, Union for a Popular Movement (UMP) and Union
of Democrats and Independents (UDI), Alexis Govciyan
was elected as First Deputy Mayor, taking responsibility
for preserving public areas, social security, public affairs,
as well as organizing remembrance events.
Alexis Govciyan was born in 1956, in Polis. He graduated
from Esayan and Mkhitaryan colleges in Polis. Specialized
in law, Govciyan is head of the Higher Institute of Lawyers. He has been the head of the Coordinating Council of
Armenian Organizations in France and April 24 Committee
for many years. He is a board member of the French University in Armenia. He has been the recipient of a number
of awards and medals, from both RA and NKR Presidents,
as well as from the chairman of Senate of France.
AGBU Europe Chairman Alexis Govciyan (2nd from right) Wins in
Paris Municipal Elections
ALEX AND MARIE MANOOGIAN SCHOOL OF DETROIT VISITS ARMENIA
For 10 days in April, 26 students from the AGBU
Detroit Alex and Marie Manoogian School visited
Armenia to discover their Homeland.
On the second day of their trip, the group visited The
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, where the students
had the chance to take part in a Mass held on the
sixth Sunday of Lent, visited the tomb of the founders of their school, Alex and Marie Manoogian and
the Treasury House as well as Ruben Sevak’s Museum.
The youth and their chaperons spent a day visiting
Students of Alex and Marie Manoogian School of Detroit
AGBU’s New Building in Yerevan, AGBU Armenia
in AGBU Armenia Office
Representation office and learned about the activities
carried out by the AGBU Armenian Virtual College. At the end of the day, the group visited the Nork Children’s Center,
where they enjoyed the beautiful concert by the Center’s children.
The children also paid a visit to the Tumo Center for Creative Technologies and learned about their projects. They enjoyed an impressive performance by Tumo’s Tmba Ta Band and the Tumo Kids shared their knowledge of robotics with
the group. The visiting students also learned about the principles of 3D printers and were given a little part of the material,
which was printed on the spot to take home as a souvenir.
The group was headed by the principal of the school Hovsep Torosyan, school teachers, as well as renowned composer
Alexandra du Bois and photographer Michel Antonyan. The group’s visit to Armenia was also organized with the assistance of Hermine Duzian, AGBU’s Diasporan Youth Programs Coordinator in Armenia.
THE FIFTH VOLUME OF AVETIK ISAHAKYAN’S
FULL COLLECTION OF LITERARY WORKS PUBLISHED
The 5th volume of Avetik Isahakayan’s Full Collection of Literary Works was recently published at the Manuk Abeghyan
Institute of Literature of the Armenian Academy of Sciences. Upon the decision of the Institute’s scientific Board, this
volume, part of a literary collection comprised of 14 volumes, was published with the sponsorship of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU).
In cooperation with the M. Abeghyan Institute of Literature and with the financial support of AGBU “Levon Z. Surmelian” Foundation a number of books have been published over the past number of years.
Page 19
SUMMER CAMPS
SCOUTS
DISCOVER ARMENIA
MUSICAL ARMENIA
INTERNSHIPS
AGBU
SUMMER PROGRAMS
2014
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 2014.
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
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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 ARMENIAN REPRESENTATION
YEREVAN
9 Alex Manoogian St.
Yerevan 0070, Armenia
Phone: (374 10) 51 22 51
[email protected]
Page 20

AGBU ARMENIA NEWSLETTER

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