Boston Community Raises Over $2.7 Million in Support of AUA

American University of Armenia honors Avedisian Family
AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian and Pamela Avedisian

On October 5, the American University of Armenia (AUA) raised over $2.7 million at the University’s first gala fundraiser on the East Coast. Catalysts for Change: Honoring the Avedisian Family was a night of impact, dialogue, and celebration of AUA achievements throughout the past three decades, while also spotlighting the late Edward Avedisian and his wife Pamela for the couple’s transformative contributions to the University since its inception. 

The gala was held at the Oakley Country Club in Watertown, with guests that included respected members of the community. AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian presented the University’s recent accomplishments, including its re-accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. He provided an update on AUA’s expansion plans and notable projects supported through the American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (AHSA) of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), including the new AUA Media Lab, and the receipt of another $1.8 million from USAID/ASHA for the establishment of a new Advanced Biology, Life and Environmental Sciences Lab. Dr. Boghosian also highlighted the University’s ongoing partnership with Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), an initiative that was initiated by former WPI Provost Dr. Diran Apelian in collaboration with faculty at AUA, and remarked on academic programs set to launch at the University in the near future. 

The Visionary Philanthropist Award was presented to Pamela Avedisian, who recognized her late husband’s magnanimous efforts in service of AUA while accepting the award onstage. “Our aim is for the Avedisian family legacy to continue to grow and support AUA as a leader in new and exciting interdisciplinary fields that will educate the students of today into the leaders of tomorrow,” she said.

A panel discussion ensued, featuring experts and academics in biotechnology, engineering, and education. The panelists discussed the role AUA and higher education overall play in the evolution of technology and global trends, and the impact of artificial intelligence and the technological revolution on AUA students, Armenia, and the future. 

Following a video presentation delineating how AUA prepares students to enter and contribute to the workforce in Armenia, Vice President of Development Gaiane Khachatrian expressed gratitude to AUA benefactors K. George and Dr. Carolann Najarian for their contribution of two buildings that became the AUA Najarian Center for Social Entrepreneurship and the AUA Student Residence. She then announced a tremendous display of support by AUA Pillars Matthew and Margarethe Mashikian, who named the dormitory the AUA Mashikian Student Residence through a transformational $1 million gift, followed by a video from the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Khachatrian expressed gratitude to the entire Boston community of AUA supporters for making the event a resounding success. Proceeds raised from the gala will go toward bolstering the mission of AUA in providing quality higher education for bright students in Armenia. 

To learn more about ways to support AUA, please visit philanthropy.aua.am.

Source: American University of Armenia

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About American University of Armenia

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The American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private institution of higher learning offering a globally recognized education in Armenia. Founded in 1991, AUA provides a high-quality graduate and undergraduate education that encourages civic engagement and promotes democratic values. We foster a scholarly environment that values and develops academic excellence, free inquiry, integrity, scholarship, leadership, and service to society.

AUA is affiliated with the University of California and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, 510.748.9001, www.wscuc.org

The American University of Armenia is registered as the American University of Armenia Corporation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit in the state of California.

Additionally, we are recognized as the American University of Armenia Foundation, a foundation (Հիմնադրամ) in the Republic of Armenia. These designations reflect our commitment to making a positive impact on society through education and research.

American University of Armenia
40 Baghramyan avenue
Yerevan, Yerevan 0019
Armenia