The Armenian Educational Foundation (AEF) successfully raised over $500,000 at their annual “Honoring Our Educators” fundraiser on June 23, 2024, hosted at the residence of Vahe and Ruzan Kuzoyan in Los Angeles, California. This event celebrated the significant contributions of educators and showcased the strong community spirit and generosity that underpin the support for Armenian education, reports Zartonk Media.
The fundraiser illuminated the stories of students who have been propelled toward academic success through AEF’s scholarships, educational grants, and resources. These stories, shared by the beneficiaries, highlighted the direct benefits of the support extended by the AEF to Armenian students both in Armenia and the diaspora.
The funds raised will be directed towards scholarships, educational grants, and resources to support the academic aspirations of Armenian students both in Armenia and the diaspora.
In a special tribute during the evening, AEF honored several esteemed educators for their dedication to advancing Armenian education:
- Carmen Der Garabedian, from Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School & Cabayan Elementary School
- David Ghoogasian, from AGBU Manoogian Demirdjian School
- Sona Madarian, from Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School
- Sona Madenlian, from Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School
- Zepur Mardirosian, from Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School & Cabayan Elementary School
- Roubina Pakradouni, from Armenian Mesrobian School
The attendees were also treated to a performance by Grigori Balasanyan, a young pianist and composer who is a 2022 recipient of the AEF Richard R. Tufenkian Scholarship. Balasanyan, known for integrating Armenian cultural motifs with modern musical styles, has also graced stages as prestigious as Carnegie Hall.
AEF Board President Serop Beylerian expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown by our community. Every dollar raised tonight is a testament to the commitment we all share in fostering education and providing opportunities for our youth. This is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our collective dedication to a brighter future.”
The event highlighted the generous spirit of the Armenian community and the pivotal role of education in advancing community interests. The Armenian Educational Foundation extends profound gratitude to Vahe and Ruzan Kuzoyan for their hospitality and to all contributors for ensuring the event’s success and the continuation of AEF’s vital educational missions.
For further details about the Armenian Educational Foundation and to support their programs, visit AEF’s website.
