Armenia Fund has announced a $500,000 donation from philanthropist Maria Keshishian to fund the construction of a new preschool in Gyumri, expanding access to early childhood education for families in Armenia’s second-largest city.
The preschool will be built in the city’s Mush 2 district. Construction began on August 1, 2026, with completion scheduled for August 2027. The donation covers the full cost of the project.
Designed to serve more than 75 children, the preschool will provide a dedicated learning environment during the earliest years of a child’s education. The building is new construction rather than a renovation of an existing facility.
Once completed, the preschool will be handed over to the Gyumri municipality, which will determine its transfer to the Ministry of Education.
Keshishian, a member of the diaspora based in the United States, said her decision to support the project was rooted in a belief that educational opportunity begins long before primary school.
“Education begins long before a child enters a classroom,” said Keshishian. “It begins with opportunity. I want to help create opportunities for children and families, and I hope this gift serves as an example that encourages others to join in making a difference. Every contribution—whether large or small—has the power to change lives.”
She also expressed confidence in Armenia Fund’s work and the organization’s ability to deliver projects that have a lasting impact.
“I have complete trust in Armenia Fund and the work it does for our homeland. I look forward to seeing this preschool become a reality and witnessing the impact it will have on future generations. My hope is to leave a lasting legacy through education and to contribute to a brighter future for Armenia’s children,” she said.
Armenia Fund President Maria Mehranian thanked Keshishian for her support, describing the preschool as an investment in the country’s future.
“Acts of generosity such as this create lasting change,” said Mehranian. This preschool will become a place where children learn, grow, dream, and build the skills that will guide them throughout their lives. Maria Keshishian’s commitment to education is an investment not only in these children, but in Armenia’s future.”
Gyumri, the capital of Shirak Province, has been rebuilding since the 1988 Spitak earthquake destroyed much of the city and left thousands of families in temporary housing for decades. The preschool adds to the educational infrastructure of a city where that rebuilding is still underway.
