June 15, 2005

Friends of AUA Host Receptions in Chicago, Dallas, and San Francisco

Opening their hearts and homes to the American University of Armenia (AUA), Dr. Jack and Mrs. Marie Saroyan of San Francisco, CA, Mr. Sam and Mrs. Sylva Simonian of Dallas, TX, and Dr. Ara Tekian of Chicago, IL, hosted intimate fundraising receptions in 2005 to raise $30,000 to benefit the University’s programs.

AUA President, Dr. Haroutune Armenian, was present at each function to personally provide an update on the University’s progress and share his vision of the role of AUA in Armenia’s socio-economic development. “"AUA continues to be a very important component of Armenia's development in a number of economic, educational, and cultural sectors," said President Armenian.

In San Francisco in March, Dr. Jack and Mrs. Marie Saroyan, graciously received over 40 guests in their beautiful Marina home. “Marie and I have been supporting AUA for many years now and believe that AUA is a unique institution in Armenia, which provides Armenia’s youth with educational and economic opportunities,” said Dr. Saroyan. Old and new friends of AUA appreciated the opportunity to once again meet and discuss the University’s activities.

Chair of AUA’s Development Committee, Mr. Sam Simonian, helped to expand AUA ’s family and friends in Dallas in early May. “My wife and I have been supporters of AUA for sometime, and I am now serving as a member of the Board of Trustees. We strongly believe that AUA is making a positive impact in Armenia,” said Mr. Simonian, who also provides essential support to AUA’s Computer and Information Science Program.

“I have been greatly impressed by AUA’s progress over the years, having witnessed its achievements since the inception of the Master of Public Health program,” said Chicago host Dr. Ara Tekian. “The students I came to know during my courses are now employed in Armenia and working in prestigious positions in Armenia’s health care system. I also became acquainted with other graduates at AUA, from the business and law departments, and know that these individuals have developed their entrepreneurial skills and launched innovative projects under difficult circumstances. I feel that our Diaspora could make a most meaningful and dignified contribution to the future of Armenia by supporting the education of tomorrow’s leaders.”

Guests attending the fundraising receptions responded generously and were moved by their hosts’ commitment to the University and conviction that AUA is a worthwhile investment. The University expects to keep on building and cultivating the friends of AUA in cities nationwide. AUA continues to be a beacon of hope and strength to the people of Armenia for more than 14 years, reflecting a unique Diaspora-Armenia partnership. As a premier institution of higher learning, the American University of Armenia provides teaching, research, and service programs that prepare students to address the needs of Armenia, in a setting that values and develops academic excellence, free inquiry, scholarship, leadership and service to society.