Armenian Studies Holds 18th Annual Banquet Featuring Premiere of "Khachaturian: The Film"

ZHANNA BAGDASAROV
EDITOR

The Eighteenth Annual Armenian Studies Program Banquet welcomed distinguished guests, faculty, students, and generous benefactors to the Residence Dining Facility on an unusually warm Sunday afternoon. On this day, February 12, numerous scholarship recipients were honored for their academic accomplishments and continued involvement with the Armenian Studies Program.

As guests made their way into the banquet hall, they were given the opportunity to not only take pleasure in the sight of incredible art works by Fresno's artist Varaz Samuelian, but they were also able to purchase selected works by participating in the silent auction. Various original paintings, lithographs, and books by Mr. Samuelian were displayed for the enjoyment of the attendees and in turn contributed to the rather relaxing atmosphere.

Prior to the beginning of the evening's program, the guests were invited to partake in appetizers, enjoy a glass of wine, and get to know those seated at each table. Reverend Vahan Gosdanian, pastor of the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, gave the invocation before the delicious meal. It wasn't long before everyone began enjoying their dinner and socializing with those seated at their tables.

Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, the Director of the Armenian Studies Program, officially began the event by delivering the opening remarks. His personal acquaintance with Dr. Vida Samiian, Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, made for an interesting introductory statement. Following this, Dr. Samiian took the podium and spoke extensively about the importance of the Armenian Studies Program and its contribution to the College of Arts and Humanities.

"The College of Arts and Humanities is honored to have the Armenian Studies Program in our midst. Armenian Studies, with two faculty, has the visibility of some of our largest departments and makes an impact on the community. This is a source of pride for our College and Armenian Studies is one of the jewels of our crown. The Armenian Studies Program is the best undergraduate Armenian Studies Program in the nation. And it is amazing to accomplish this with two faculty," said the Dean.

She made it clear that the entire Fresno community should be grateful for the existence of this program and encouraged each person present to continue his or her support and involvement.

"The Program offers many courses, has implemented a new honors program, and a great outreach program. This would not be possible without the support of the community. The reason that so much can be accomplished is because of you, because the community has embraced Armenian Studies and given it its unconditional support. Thank you for your support. I look forward to many years of growth and enhancement for the Program," concluded the Dean.

Dr. Dickran Kouymjian then expressed his gratitude to each of the many Armenian Studies Program benefactors. A certificate of appreciation, along with a personal expression of thanks and recognition, was delivered to the sponsors who were present.

Dr. Kouymjian especially recognized Mrs. Fran Ziegler, the administrative assistant of the Armenian Studies Program, who has faithfully served the Program for ten yeas. Mrs. Ziegler will be retiring this Spring.

Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian of the Armenian Studies Program followed this portion of the program by introducing students who were awarded scholarships by the Armenian Studies Program. Each student was personally introduced, presented to the audience and recognized for his or her academic achievements and involvement with the Program. Once all of the students were introduced, they were recognized for their achievements with a round of applause.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the screening of the award-winning documentary by Peter Rosen, Khachaturian: The Film. This feature presentation documented the life and work of the great Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian. It provided the audience with a rare opportunity to view never-before-seen footage of Khachaturian, acquired by the director from Moscow. The film, lasting a little over an hour, presented an interesting account of Khachaturian's life. It familiarized the audience with all of the obstacles Khachaturian had to overcome while working in Russia, while also delivering personal accounts from fellow colleagues and family members. The screening of the film was made possible through producers Robert Lawrence Kuhn and Dora Serviarian Kuhn. The applause that followed the screening of the film demonstrated everyone's satisfaction and enjoyment.

The entire event was a success. The guests exchanged comments of gratitude and appreciation not only for the banquet but also for the Program in general. Organizing this evening of socializing and making new acquaintances was a wonderful way for the Armenian Studies Program to express its gratitude for the benefactors and to recognize the accomplishments of each student.