For 35 years, the American University of Armenia (AUA) has done far more than educate students. It has helped educate a nation. From government ministers and ambassadors to entrepreneurs, engineers, physicians, researchers, and founders of globally recognized technology companies, generations of AUA graduates have helped shape modern Armenia. Since opening its doors in 1991, the same year Armenia regained its independence — the University has grown into one of the country’s most influential academic institutions, becoming synonymous with innovation, leadership, academic excellence, and public service.
This November, that legacy will take center stage as AUA marks its 35th anniversary with a landmark gala in Beverly Hills, bringing together alumni, philanthropists, business leaders, educators, and supporters from across the Armenian diaspora for an evening celebrating the University’s past while investing in its future. The gala serves as the culmination of AUA’s yearlong “Paving the Way for Future Leaders” campaign, an initiative highlighting the University’s impact over the past three and a half decades while advancing its vision for the next generation of Armenian leadership.
To be held on Saturday, November 7, at the iconic Beverly Hilton, the evening will feature an inspiring program that reflects the University’s enduring commitment to education, innovation, and community.
Guests will be welcomed by Event Co-Chairs Liza Bagamian and Tanya Tsarukyan, followed by remarks from AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian, whose leadership has guided the University into a new era of strategic growth.
The evening will feature a keynote address by Magdalena Yesil, a trailblazing Silicon Valley entrepreneur, founding board member of Salesforce, and current board member of SoFi, Picsart, Plume, and BAZ Therapeutics. Yesil has long been recognized as one of the Armenian community’s most influential voices in technology, entrepreneurship, and venture investing.
The evening will also feature remarks from AUA alumnus Hakob Janesian (BSDS ’24), representing the newest generation of graduates carrying the University’s mission forward.
While the evening celebrates a significant milestone, it is equally focused on the future.
AUA’s 35th Anniversary campaign aligns with the University’s Strategic Plan 2024–2034, which calls for expanding research initiatives, strengthening faculty recruitment, broadening academic offerings, growing student enrollment, and extending AUA’s impact throughout Armenia. As the University looks toward its fourth decade, the campaign seeks not only to commemorate past achievements but also to ensure that future generations continue to benefit from world-class education rooted in democratic values, innovation, and service. Throughout its history, AUA has remained more than a university. It has served as a catalyst for Armenia’s development — preparing leaders who have strengthened institutions, advanced scientific discovery, launched transformative businesses, and helped shape the Republic’s evolving story.
Thirty-five years after its founding, AUA’s mission remains as relevant as ever.
For more information about the AUA 35th Anniversary Gala, including tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and the full evening program, please contact AUA Office of Advancement by email, by phone, or visit their website.
