BURLINGTON, Vt.—The 103rd convention of the Armenian Relief Society Eastern United States of America (ARS-EUSA) took place from July 17-20 in Burlington, Vermont, marking the first time the convention was held in the state. Thirty-nine delegates representing 20 chapters, the Regional Executive Board, organizational representatives, and observers and guests were in attendance.

The convention commenced on Thursday, July 18, with the singing of the anthems of the Republic of Armenia, the United States, and the Armenian Relief Society. During the opening ceremony, ARS EUSA Regional Executive Board chairperson Caroline Chamavonian invited the delegates to observe a moment of silence in honor of ARS members, benefactors, and supporters of the organization who passed away during the year. In her remarks, she expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of the chapters, emphasizing how their commitment embodies the resilience and compassion of the Armenian community. Then, Caroline Chamavonian honored Vartouhie Chiloyan for her 25th anniversary as Executive Director of the ARS of Eastern USA. To mark this milestone, a special surprise video featuring messages from former ARS of Eastern USA chairpersons was presented, along with a collage of photos showcasing memorable moments from her tenure. The tribute highlighted Chiloyan’s enduring commitment and significant impact on the organization over the past quarter-century, celebrating her unwavering dedication and leadership. As a token of appreciation, a special gift was presented to her. 

Then, Fr. Stephan Baljian, Pastor of the St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of Merrimack Valley opened the meeting with a prayer and passed on the greetings of Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Church. Then, Ani Tchaghlassian, Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Eastern US Central Committee Chairperson and Central Executive Board member and region’s liaison Irma Kassabian made remarks on behalf of their respective bodies, expressing gratitude for their partnership with the ARS EUSA and wished the delegates a success as they planned the next fiscal year. 

Taline Mkrtschjan, Sandra Vartanian, and Knar Kiledjian were elected on the Credentials Examination Committee and after the review and approval of the delegate questionnaires, the meeting was deemed official. Sevan Koledjian and Silva Takvorian were elected to chair the Convention. Mimi Parseghian, Victoria Hagopian, Knar Kiledjian, and Maria Ebrimian served as secretaries, diligently keeping meeting minutes throughout the weekend. Guests of the convention included Talin Daghlian, Angele Manoogian, Sonia Bezdikian, Arpy Seferian, Dana Walrath, and Susan Alemiian Bentley. 

On Thursday night, Ungh. Irma Kassabian presented the CEB’s 2023-2024 report. The report summarized the humanitarian efforts undertaken and the various programs implemented by the ARS in the homeland and around the world.

During the convention, Silva Sagherian, Maral Kaprielian, Pearl Bargamian Teague, Tsoler Janian, and Juliette Millian served as members of the nominating committee. The correspondence committee, responsible for reviewing the files and minutes of the regional office, included Vera Mouradian, Renee Marachlian, and Lusya Schinelli. Auditing committee members who audited the organization’s financial records and the budget were Talar Abdalian, Lena Dishoyan, and Danielle Shegherian. Tasked with gathering decisions and intentions for future projects and plans for the region, the resolutions committee consisted of Karine Shamlian, Melissa Simonian, and Linda Wyatt. 

On Friday, July 19, the meeting began with the presentation of the activities of the Eastern United States, presented by Regional Executive Board Vice-Chair,  Seda Aghamianz, where it was announced that more than $565,000 was allocated by the ARS-EUSA to local, regional, and global projects during the fiscal year. Delegates expressed their appreciation to the board and staff for their work during the fiscal year and commended their commitment to the organization’s humanitarian mission. They specifically highlighted the importance of continuing the trip seminars for the membership and giving more educational opportunities for our community members. Throughout the day, organizational topics such as recruitment and expanding membership, program evaluation and expansion, marketing/public relations, and increasing financial resources were discussed. The resolutions committee presented a list of goals to guide the newly-elected Regional Executive Board in the upcoming fiscal year. Due to a change in the bylaws, the ARS of Eastern USA will now hold conventions biennially instead of annually. Delegates were also excited to hear about plans for a celebratory weekend in honor of the organization’s 115th anniversary, which will be held in New York/New Jersey on March 8, 2025.

As the meeting progressed, Isabel Hagobian, Armenian Youth Federation-YOARF member and Harout Tashian, Homenetmen Armenian General Athletic Union member reported on the activities of their organizations. 

At the end of the meeting, Caroline Chamavonian thanked Talin Daghlian for her service on the board during the first quarter of the fiscal year before her election to the Central Executive Board and presented her with a gift on behalf of the Regional Executive Board. Caroline also expressed gratitude to Executive Director Vartouhie Chiloyan and Marketing Manager Verginie Touloumian for their exceptional contributions and efforts in advancing the organization’s mission and outreach. In appreciation of the hospitality, the Regional Executive Board also donated $850 to their chapter. Finally, Caroline thanked the delegates for their contributions and encouraged them to return to their cities with renewed energy to serve our community, nation, and people. Guests of the convention conveyed their sincere appreciation to the Regional Executive Board and praised the delegates for diligently conducting the convention with new ideas and enthusiasm.  

Additionally, all new time delegates reflected on their first convention and shared their experiences during a dedicated session, where many expressed feelings of inspiration and motivation, highlighting the valuable insights gained from the discussions. 
In honor of the delegates and guests, a yacht tour on Lake Champlain was organized on Saturday night. As the yacht sailed, attendees enjoyed views of the surrounding landscape and had opportunities for networking and camaraderie. Following the yacht tour, a raffle organized by the chapter offered several gifts to the attendees and a grand prize of $1,250, which the winner, Seda Aghamianz, donated entirely back to the chapter to sponsor young Armenians from their state to attend AYF Camp Haiastan.

The convention concluded with the election of Regional Board members and approval of the budget. The 2024-2025 Regional Executive Board members are Caroline Chamavonian, Seda Aghamianz, Margie Babikian, Mary Andonian, Tamitza Dakissian, Anoush Bargamian, and Leiza Bouroujian. 

WATERTOWN, Mass. — The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA is proud to announce the awarding of $87,200 in scholarships to 75 deserving students. The committee and regional executive board selected the students based on their academic achievements, involvement in the Armenian community, and financial need.

“We are honored to support these exceptional students who have shown remarkable dedication to academic excellence and community service,” said Caroline Chamavonian, Chairperson of the ARS of Eastern USA. “As an organization, we aim to empower the next generation of Armenian scholars and community leaders,” she continued. 

Following is a list of the recipients based on each scholarship category. The scholarships provided by the ARS of Eastern USA are made possible through the generous endowments and memorial funds established by individuals and families over the last couple of decades who wholeheartedly believe in the power of education and its transformative impact.

The recipients of the ARS of Eastern USA Undergraduate Scholarships are:Avakyan, Lusine (Nursing – Pace University)
Ayazian, Andre (Mechanical Engineering – Stevens Institute of Technology)
Badalyan, Gayane (Chemistry – University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
Bardakjian, Sona (Communications – Boston College)
Bedrossian, Aren (Accounting – Fairfield University)
Blonkvist, Christie (Biomedical Engineering – University of Virginia)
Boudakian, Arev (Anthropology – Oberlin College)
Buchaklian, Arev (Political Science – University of Wisconsin)
Chanakian, Celine (International Studies – Louisiana State University)
Chekijian, Berj (Business Administration – Northeastern University)
Dabbaghlian, Roupen (Computer Science – Eastern University)
Emirzian, Haig (Cybersecurity – Stevens Institute of Technology)
Gevorkian, Narineh (Business and Marketing – University of Connecticut)
Hardy, Aren (Mechanical Engineering – University of Illinois)
Hartounian, Areni (Health Administration – Rutgers University)
Hovasapyan, Erik (Human Biology – Hunter College)
Jackmakjian, Galy (Studio Art and Education – University of Maryland)
Kalandjian, Lena (Human and Organizational Development – Vanderbilt University)
Kalpakgian, Ari (Economics – Franciscan University of Steubenville)
Kasbarian, Sita (Nursing – Rutgers University)
Kazarian, Sophia (Education – Michigan State University)
Koceyan, Alex (Fine Arts – Wayne State University)
Kojoian, Nikolas (Industrial Engineering – Northeastern University)
Maragoudakis, Sophia (Hospitality Administration – Cornell University)
Martirosyan, Meline (Science in Nursing – West Coast University)
Mardanyan, Tigran (Classical Piano – Berklee College of Music)

Matevosian, Vana (Psychology – University of California, Los Angeles) 

Mkrtumyan, Taron (Mathematics – University of Minnesota)
Oganezov, Ardashes (Biochemistry – McGill University)
Ohanyan, Katerina (Fashion Merchandising – LIM College)
Ourlian, Arek (Computer Science – Wayne State University)
Panoosian, Ejmin (Aeronautical Science – Embry Riddle Aeronautical University)
Santerian, Nicole (Economics – Villanova University)
Soulakian, Aleen (Marketing – Illinois State University)
Tenekedzhyan, Vardui Izabell (Accounting – Bentley University)
Topouzian, Teny (Psychology – Michigan State University)
Torikian, Philip Nareg (Civil Engineering – Drexel University)
Varin, John Aram (Aerospace Engineering – The University of Alabama)
Zobian, Maral (Interior Design – Suffolk University)
The recipients of the ARS of Eastern USA Lazarian Graduate Scholarships are:
Abgaryan, Nare (Data Science – Georgetown University)
Aleksanyan, Kristina (European and Eurasian Studies – Georgetown University)
Asilyan, Lida (Education Policy and Analysis – Harvard University)
Babaian, Nareg (Law – Civil Litigation & Advocacy – Southwestern Law)
Bagiryan, Anahit (Education – Stanford University)
Bardakjian, Lena A. (Public Relations & Sociology – Villanova University)
Cortada, Tiana (Communication Sciences – Emerson College)
Dishoyan, Galin (Law – Civil Litigation & Advocacy – Seton Hall University of Law)
Gevorkian, Datev (Plant and Soil Sciences – University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
Karaghousian, Chant (Architecture – Woodbury University)
Khachatryan, Angelina (Fashion Management – Parsons School of Design)
Koceyan, Cecile (Veterinary Medicine – Michigan State University)
Loussararian, Tatiana (MA in Education – National University)
Magardichian, Marco (Osteopathic Medicine – CA Health Science University)
Makaryan, Martin (International Relations – John Hopkins University)
Manoukian, Aram (Law – University of San Francisco Law School)
Manoukian, Sevana (Law – Columbia Law School)
Mardanyan, Hayk (Applied Economics – University of Minnesota)
Mesrobian, Kalina (Law – St. John’s University)
Oknayan, Gasia (Epidemiology – Public Health – Columbia University)
Pogosyan, David (Medicine – University of Arizona)
Sarafian, Melanie (Dental Medicine – Boston University)

Sargsyan, Elina (Counseling Psychology – University of St. Thomas) 

The Karnig Alajajian Family Scholarship is given to students of Armenian descent from the Middle East pursuing their higher education in the United States. This year’s recipients are:Arda Terterian (Epidemiology & Biostatistics – Boston University)Bedig Tourousian (Animal Sciences – Rutger University)

The Hagop & Pearl Mooradian Scholarship is given to students from the United States who are pursuing their education in Armenia. This year’s recipient is:Varak Ghazarian (Medicine – Yerevan State University)

The ARS Regional Executive Board also awarded scholarships to the following deserving students as part of their commitment to supporting educational pursuits:

Alikhanyan, Davit (Global Finance and Business Law – Chicago-Kent College of Law IIT)
Bairamian, Nora (Near Eastern Language & Cultures, Armenian Studies – University of California, Los Angeles)
Janesian, Hakob (Data Science – Boston University)
Jermakian, Ani (Art Education – University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
Martirosyan, Armen (Music – University of Miami)
Mikhaelyan, Alena (International Relations – John Hopkins University)
Shahverdyan, Nina (Educational Policymaking – Columbia University)
Terterian, Arda (Epidemiology & Biostatistics – Boston University)

Each year, the ARS of Eastern USA also awards the Areen Armenian Fund Scholarship to Melankton and Haig Arslanian Djemaran (Mezher, Lebanon) allowing the school to select a talented student in poetry or another creative art.

The ARS of Eastern USA has awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships over the last several decades. The next application cycle will begin in January 2025. Interested applicants can learn more on the website.

The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA is delighted to announce the successful completion of our first-ever regional seminar conducted aboard a cruise to the beautiful Bahamas with over 50 members from various ARS chapters across the Eastern United States.

During the cruise the participants engaged in an Armenian dance workshop led by Alex Avaneszadeh. Alex’s expertise and passion for Armenian cultural traditions were evident as he guided participants through the rich tapestry of Armenian dance. The workshop provided an interactive platform for attendees to connect with their heritage and bond through the joy of dance.

Our second seminar included an insightful presentation by Dr. Maya Sarkisyan, DOM – Lic Acu., Functional Medicine Practitioner, and Master NLP Practitioner. Dr. Sarkisyan’s session on mind and body healing modalities was both informative and transformative. She shared valuable techniques and practices aimed at enhancing overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of holistic health approaches in today’s fast-paced world.

The cruise provided a unique and inspiring backdrop for learning, reflection, and camaraderie. Participants had the opportunity to engage with one another while sailing and enjoying the stunning vistas and tranquil environment.

“We are thrilled with the success of our first regional seminar on a cruise,” said Caroline Chamavonian, Chairperson of the Regional Executive Board. “This event was a testament to the strength and vibrancy of our ARS community. “The combination of the seminars and being with ARS compatriots, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Bahamas, made for an unforgettable experience. We look forward to organizing more innovative and engaging events in the future,” she continued.

WATERTOWN, Mass.— Dr. Elisa von Joeden-Forgey (co-founder and executive director, Lemkin Institute), Prof. Paul Boghossian (silver professor of philosophy, NYU), Garine Boghossian (architect and urbanist), Dr. Nora Lessersohn (visiting fellow, Middle Eastern Studies, Harvard University) and Dr. Khatchig Mouradian (lecturer, Columbia University) will serve as speakers for the Spring 2024 Norian Youth Connect Program.

The event will commence on the evening of Friday, February 23, at Columbia University in New York and conclude on Sunday, February 25 at noon.

“We extend a warm invitation to Armenian university students ages 18-27 to participate in this enriching weekend of workshops, discussions and networking,” said ARS of Eastern USA chairperson Caroline Chamavonian.

To secure a spot, students can register here. The application fee is $50 and covers the program plus breakfast, lunch, dinner and the evening social. Overnight accommodations will be provided exclusively to out-of-town students. The registration deadline is February 15, 2024.

Elisa von Joeden-Forgey is executive director of the Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention. She was formerly the endowed chair in Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Keene State College and director of the Master’s Program in Genocide Prevention and Human Security. Before this, she was the Dr. Marsha Raticoff Grossman Associate Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Stockton University in New Jersey, where she also directed the master’s program in Holocaust and Genocide Studies and founded the world’s first academic, graduate-level Genocide Prevention Certificate Program. She is the former president of Genocide Watch, former first vice president of the International Association of Genocide Scholars and co-founder of the Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention. She received her master’s and doctorate in history from the University of Pennsylvania and her bachelor’s degree from Columbia University.

Paul Boghossian is silver professor of philosophy at NYU’s Philosophy Department and distinguished research professor at the University of Birmingham in the UK. He is the director of the New York Institute of Philosophy and the director of NYU’s Global Institute for Advanced Study. He was chair of philosophy from 1994-2004. His research interests are primarily in epistemology, the philosophy of mind and the philosophy of language. He has written on a variety of topics, including self-knowledge, a priori knowledge, analytic truth, realism, relativism, the aesthetics of music and the concept of genocide. He has served on the Global Citizenship Commission headed by former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown and currently on the University of London’s School of Advanced Study Strategic Advisory Board.

Garine Boghossian is an architect, urbanist and researcher based in New York. She has extensive experience in large-scale urban and regional planning projects worldwide. She is currently working on a decolonial mapping project retracing the Armenian neighborhoods of modern-day Turkey based on mental maps produced by genocide survivors. She was an adjunct lecturer in architecture at Northeastern University and the Boston Architectural College in Massachusetts. Garine received her master’s degree in architecture and urbanism from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and her bachelor of architecture with a minor in art history from the American University of Beirut.

Nora Lessersohn is a historian of U.S., Ottoman and Armenian history with a focus on the lives of Armenian Americans. She earned her doctorate in history from University College London in 2023, supported by a Calouste Gulbenkian Armenian Studies Scholarship. In 2021-22, she was a predoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Museum of American History. She earned her bachelor of arts in the study of religion at Harvard College and her master’s in Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard University, where she is currently a visiting fellow. Dr. Lessersohn has published articles on the memoir of her great-grandfather, Hovhannes Cherishian, and is now preparing a manuscript on the life and work of Christopher Oscanyan, who she will discuss at Norian Youth Connect.

Khatchig Mouradian has served as the director of the ARS Youth Connect Program since 2014. He is a lecturer in Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies at Columbia University and the Armenian and Georgian Area Specialist at the Library of Congress. He also serves as co-principal investigator of the project on Armenian Genocide Denial at the Global Institute for Advanced Study at New York University. Dr. Mouradian is the author of the award-winning book The Resistance Network: The Armenian Genocide and Humanitarianism in Ottoman Syria, 1915-1918 and the co-editor of After the Ottomans: Genocide’s Long Shadow and Armenian Resilience. His co-edited volume The I.B.Tauris Handbook of the Late Ottoman Empire: History and Legacy is forthcoming in 2024. 

The 102nd Convention of the Armenian Relief Society Eastern United States of America (ARS-EUSA) was held from July 14 to July 16, 2023, in Richmond, Virginia. Thirty-eight (38) delegates representing twenty-one (21) chapters, the Regional Executive Board, organizational representatives, and observers and guests attended the convention.

The 102nd Convention was called to order on July 14, 2023 with the singing of the Anthems of the Republic of Armenia, the United States of America, and the Armenian Relief Society. Then during its opening ceremony, Chamavonian invited the delegates to observe a moment of silence in honor of ARS members, benefactors, and supporters of the organization who passed away during the year. In her remarks she thanked the chapters for their unwavering dedication and support for the regional and international programs by saying “Your dedication embodies the spirit of an exemplary Armenian woman, a caring mother, and a compassionate sister.”

Later on, Silva Kouyoumdjian, ARS CEB representative and the region’s liaison; Georgi Oshagan, member of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Eastern US Central Committee; Aline Baghdassarian, representative of the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society, and Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of the Armenian Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Church, made remarks on behalf of their respective organizations thanking their partnership with the ARS EUSA and wishing the organization success. A letter from the Homenetmen Armenian General Athletic Union was also read. Also in attendance was Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian of Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church of Greater Washington D.C. On behalf of the Virginia “Hooys” Chapter, Leiza Bouroujian and Sona Kerneklian Pomfret welcomed the guests to their state and Murad Kerneklian, a representative of the ARF “Vrej” Chapter of Virginia relayed his congratulatory remarks and thanked the organization for being dedicated to the organization’s motto “With the People, For the People.” Then the delegates participated in a reception hosted by Regional Executive Board.

The Convention was chaired by Ungh. Mimi Parseghian (Lowell “Lousintak” of MA), and Sevan Koledjian (Washington D.C. “Satenig”) and Ungh. Meline Topouzian (Cambridge “Shushi” of MA), and Lisa Kupelian (Detroit “Maro” of IL) served the secretaries of the meeting and diligently kept minutes throughout the weekend. Ungh. Nayiri Balanian (Philadelphia “Artemis” of PA) served as the Armenian secretary. 

The Convention guests were Ungh. Angele Manoogian, Ungh. Ani Attar, Ungh. Maral Nakkashian and Ungh. Stella Bandazian. Ungh. Lucine Melikian, a member of the newly established member of the ARS “Sevan” Chapter of Tampa, FL was also invited to the convention as a guest, along with Susie Kanian-Andriole (Cambridge “Shushi”).

On Friday night, Silva Kouyoumdjian, the treasurer and liaison to the Eastern Region, presented the 2022-2023 Report of the Central Executive Board. The report summarized the the emergency relief efforts undertaken and the various programs implemented by ARS in the homeland and around the world.

During the Convention, Floria Kasbarian (New Jersey “Agnouni”), Pearl Teague (Vermont “Noor”), Tamitza Dakesian (Detroit “Tzolig” of IL), Anoush Bargamian (Chicago “Zabelle”), and Nora Hovanesian Mann (Bergen Country “Armenouhi” of NJ) served as members of the Convention’s Nominating Committee.

The Correspondence Committee, responsible for reviewing the files and minutes of the Regional Office, included Ungh. Fimy Ishkhanian (Philadelphia “Ani” of PA), Violet Krikorian (Providence “Arax” of RI), and Ungh. Sirvart Telbelian (“Shakeh” of NJ). The Auditing Committee members were Lena Mekhsian (“Agnouni” of NJ), Danielle Shegerian (“Satenig” of Washington D.C.), and Suzi Kevorkian (Cambridge “Leola Sassouni” of MA). The Resolutions Committee, tasked with gathering decisions and intentions for future projects and plans for both the regional and the 73rd international convention were comprised of Yn. Maggie Kouyoumjian (“Shakeh” Chapter of NJ), Linda Wyatt (Worcester “Knar” of MA), and Talin Teague (“Noor” VT).

On Saturday, July 15, the meeting began with the presentation of the activities of the Eastern United States, where it was announced that more than $430,000 has been allocated by the ARS of Eastern USA to local, regional, and global projects. Delegates expressed their appreciation to the Board and staff for their work during the fiscal year and commended their commitment to the organization’s humanitarian mission. Throughout the day, organizational topics, such as recruitment and expanding membership, program evaluation and expansion, marketing/public relations, and increasing financial resources, were discussed. The Resolutions Committee presented a list of goals to guide the newly elected Regional Executive Board in the upcoming fiscal year and a list of resolutions that Eastern Region delegates will present to the 73rd International Convention, which will be held in October of 2023 in Yerevan, Armenia. The convention also heard a report about the activities of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF-YOARF) of Eastern Region from Niree Kaprielian, member of the Central Executive.

On Saturday night, a banquet in honor of the 102nd International Convention Delegates was hosted at the Omni International Hotel in Vermont, VA. On behalf of the chapter, Chairperson Ungh Sona Kerneklian welcomed the guests to Virginia and talked about the chapter’s name Hooys (Յոյս) which translates to hope and how it is dear to each members’ heart because “the name encapsulates how the ARS continues to provide hope for Armenia and Armenians around the world through its activities and especially with the youth who are the hope for the continuation of our heritage, culture, traditions, and the Armenian spirit.”

Then, ARS Regional Executive Board Chairperson Ungh. Chamavonian thanked the outgoing executive members Ungh Irma Kassabian and Carol Jaffarian who diligently and wholeheartedly served on the board during the past four years and congratulated the newly elected board members. Also in attendance were Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy, ARS CEB member Ungh Silva Takvorian, members of the state of Virginia’s American Red Cross representatives, who work closely with the chapter, and ARS supporters from the state of Virginia.

The Convention concluded with the election of Regional Board members and the approval of the budget. The 2023-2024 Regional Executive Board is comprised of Caroline Chamavonian, Talin Daghlian, Margaret Babikian, Seda Aghamianz, Mary Andonian, Tamitza Dakesian, and Anush Bargamian.

TAMPA, FL—The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA is thrilled to announce the establishment of the ARS “Sevan” Chapter in Tampa, Florida. This momentous occasion marks the 35th chapter under the leadership of the ARS of Eastern USA, which spans across 14 states and the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

“The ARS “Sevan” Chapter is poised to make a lasting impact through their initiatives, joining hands with their fellow chapters and the ARS network to support and uplift the Armenian people in their time of need,” expressed Caroline Chamavonian, Chairperson of the ARS Regional Executive Board. “With our united efforts, the ARS continues to write a remarkable chapter in its longstanding history of humanitarian service.”

A special oath ceremony administered by Ungh. Mary Andonian, member of the ARS of Eastern USA Regional Executive Board was held on June 3, 2023, where new members Lena Kotchounian, Sarah Vartazarian, Lizette Nalbandian, Carolin Avedissian, Lucine Melikian, and Diana Vartazarian officially joined the ranks. Also in attendance was Ungh. Angele Manoogian, a long-time member of the region who also conveyed her congratulatory remarks.

The ARS “Sevan” Chapter becomes the second chapter in the state of Florida, standing alongside the established ARS “Sosseh” Chapter near Boca Raton, Florida. This momentous addition strengthens the ARS presence in the Sunshine State, amplifying the organization’s capacity to address the needs of the Armenian community.

The ARS of Eastern USA extends its heartfelt congratulations to the founding members of the “Sevan” Chapter and expresses gratitude to the Tampa community for their continued support and enthusiasm. With the new chapter’s establishment, the ARS reinforces its commitment to advancing humanitarian endeavors and fostering unity and solidarity among Armenians in Tampa and beyond.

HACKENSACK, NJ—Over 70 members from 10 chapters of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA, as well as supporters of the organization, attended its regional seminar on April 29 at the Hackensack University Medical Center. 

MaryAnne Bonjuklian led in the singing of the ARS anthem and then introduced Caroline Chamavonian, chairperson of the ARS of Eastern USA.

In her welcoming remarks, Chamavonian noted that the last in-person seminar was held in 2019. Since then, however, she said the ARS “provided thousands of dollars worth of scholarships to young scholars. Our chapters worked in the community during the pandemic to support the elderly and thank our medical heroes. We extended our healing hands to our community members in Lebanon before and after the Beirut port explosion. We supported the work of the Central Executive Board in Artsakh and the work of our sister region in Syria.”

The first speaker of the day was Cynthia Ruggerio, Esq., who lectured on “Resonating Patterns of Cultural Destruction and Genocide.” Ruggerio discussed Lemkin’s creation of the word “genocide” and the role of cultural destruction; resonating patterns from the past to the present; the destruction of churches; the denialist narrative; the Artsakh blockade; and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and international shortcomings.

Dr. Kim Hekimian, assistant professor of nutrition in pediatrics (gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition) at the Institute of Human Nutrition at Columbia University Medical Center, spoke about “Women’s Health in Armenia.” Hekimian presented a lifecycle perspective and highlighted the intergenerational consequences of undernutrition. She also discussed the leading causes of death in recent years; coronary heart disease has been ranked the highest.

After a brief lunch break, longtime ARS member Valentine Berberian and former ARS United Nations interns Taleen Nigdelian, Nory Boiatchian, Talar Hovsepian and Arev Ebrimian presented “Armenian Women’s Rights and Roles Throughout History.”

The seminar ended with Seda Aghamianz, ARS of Eastern USA Regional Executive Board member, who led a workshop on parliamentary procedures. “The understanding of parliamentary procedures is essential during meetings to ensure that the decision-making process is fair, efficient and effective, allowing for the best possible outcomes for the meeting,” she explained.

Dinner was held at Krichian’s Grill and Bistro.

The Regional Board expressed its gratitude to all attendees and the New Jersey “Agnouni,” “Armenouhi” and “Shakeh” Chapters for their hard work in organizing the event. 

NEW YORK, NY — Students, scholars, young professionals and presenters gathered on Saturday at Columbia University for the 2023 ARS Norian Youth Connect Program. This is the first time in three years that the program has been run in-person.

The program began with introductions by Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern US board member Barbara-Seda Aghamianz and Dr. Khatchig Mouradian, who has been organizing and leading this program for over a decade. Aghamianz shared a brief history of the ARS, as well as information about its many relief programs to support Armenia, Artsakh, Syria, Lebanon and other communities. She noted that the Youth Connect program began in 1971 and used to be a four-week summertime intensive Armenian educational program. The current model successfully facilitates connection for today’s students and young professionals. She also announced the ARS’ virtual Western Armenian classes for beginners starting on March 14, 2023. They will be held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. 

ARS of Eastern US board member Barbara-Seda Aghamianz

ARS Norian Youth Connect Program Director Dr. Khatchig Mouradian

The first scholar to present was Whitney Adana Kite. Kite is a Ph.D. candidate at Columbia University in the Art History and Archaeology Department specializing in medieval Armenian art and architecture. She holds an M.A. in art history from Tufts University and a B.A. in biological anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania. Her dissertation, “The Lay of the Land: Armenian Monasteries in their Local Landscapes,” explores three medieval monasteries (Horomos, Geghard and Tatev) in the context of their topography. Last summer, Kite was a Lily Residential Scholar at the Library of Congress in the African and Middle Eastern Division (AMED).

Kite’s presentation for Youth Connect was titled “The Mystery of the Menologium.” A Menologium is a calendar that also documents the lives of saints. Kite recounted her process for identifying six folios that were found at the Library of Congress with no context or information. As an art historian, Kite is trained to look at details in art and manuscripts, such as pigment colors, stylization of letters and form that may provide clues to identify the work of art. After photographing the folios from many angles to document these details accurately, she then looked through hundreds of images that have already been cataloged online and in books to find those with a similar style to the ones she is trying to identify. Through this process, she was able to find the manuscript that these folios were from and tracked down further information about it in Dublin that included sales records and who the scribe would have been. Kite’s findings are important because they can be “in dialogue” with other images of the time and can also contribute to understanding immigration patterns, trade circumstances and even the impact of politics on art at the time. 

Next, Dr. Nareg Seferian presented “Where is the US? Where is Armenia? A Glimpse into Geographical Imagination.” This was Dr. Seferian’s first presentation since completing his Ph.D. at the School of Public and International Affairs at Virginia Tech. Between 2013 and 2016, Seferian served on the faculty of the American University of Armenia after receiving his higher education at Yerevan State University, St. John’s College, the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University and the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna. His doctoral research, supervised by Professor Gerard Toal, investigated the province of Syunik in Armenia in the aftermath of the Second Karabakh War. 

Dr. Seferian’s presentation addressed the definition and impact of “geographical imagination,” which is how we perceive or think about a place from our experiences and education. Components include territory and borders, location and relationships and visual discourse (such as maps). Dr. Seferian utilized a hands-on approach to engage attendees by displaying different outlines and images of maps and asking what thoughts and feelings were evoked when looking at each image. As he showed maps of the United States and then Armenia, discourse on the topic evolved into a conversation on identity and geography (with a discussion about terms such as Caucasus, West Asia, Eurasia, Trans Caucasus, South Caucasus, Eastern Europe, Near East and Middle East). The overarching theme was how topographical representation combined with certain labels and education can influence how groups perceive themselves, as well as how others perceive them. These details can impact how disputes and resolutions are handled.

After lunch, Tatevik Khatchatryan provided an overview of the internships and educational programs offered by the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). 

Then, Dr. Vatche Isahagian, senior research scientist and manager at IBM, began his presentation about artificial intelligence (AI). At least 25 percent of the program at Youth Connect each year has had a focus in the sciences in order to provide well-rounded programming. Dr. Isahagian is a senior member of both the IEEE and the ACM. His research spans a broad set of disciplines across distributed systems, machine learning and business processes. This presentation defined the facets of artificial intelligence, which include thinking and acting both humanly and rationally. Dr. Isahagian shared the history of AI and the numerous ways in which human beings utilize it, from machines that operate automatically to conversations with ChatGPT. Upon examining the benefits of AI, such as education, and the negative aspects of AI, such as a lack of filtering information, attendees began discussing the implications of AI for Armenian issues. Concerns were raised about how to prevent the spread of misinformation through chat bots that are unable to critically examine information they collect.

The final discussion on activism, education and justice was facilitated by Dr. Henry Theriault, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Worcester State University, and Dr. Lalai Manjikian, Humanities Professor at Vanier College in Montreal. Dr. Theriault’s research focuses on genocide denial, genocide prevention, post-genocide victim-perpetrator relations, reparations and mass violence against women and girls. He served two terms as president of the International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) and is founding co-editor of the peer-reviewed journal Genocide Studies International. Dr. Manjikian holds a Ph.D. in communication studies from McGill University (2013). Her primary teaching and research interests are in the areas of immigration and refugee studies, media representations of migration, the ethics of migration and migrant narratives. Dr. Manjikian also serves as a board member for the Foundation for Genocide Education.

During this session, attendees discussed how to effectively engage in activism for current Armenian issues, specifically through the lens of healing trauma in order to not only survive but thrive. Attendees and facilitators tackled questions of how to create global cohesion for Armenians, how to best listen and learn from each other, how to remain focused on the work long-term, even if results are not immediately seen, and where individual and collective efforts are best utilized. The overarching theme is that Armenians should be working toward a sense of security for ourselves and the region as a whole to live in peace. 

At the end of the day, attendees were able to provide feedback about the program and continue to learn from each other and build connections over dinner. These young adults leave the program with new information and inspiration to return to their home communities and contribute to the work being done to help Armenians around the globe.

Dalita Getzoyan

Dalita Getzoyan’s involvement in the Armenian community began at a young age, beginning with attending Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church in Providence, RI, and singing in its choir. She also was a member of the Providence AYF “Varantian” junior and senior chapters. She has served both on local committees and the Central Executive for the AYF Eastern Region. Dalita now lives in NYC where she works as a Music Therapist for Hospice of New York. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Flute Performance from the University of Rhode Island and a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Music Therapy from Lesley University. She also is currently pursuing a career as an actor in the city.