Manoogian Simone Foundation Relieves Financial Burden for AUA Students From Artsakh

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YEREVAN, Armenia — In these most challenging times in the history of the Armenian people, the Manoogian Simone Foundation has once again reached out to lend critical support to students from Artsakh enrolled at the American University of Armenia (AUA). “My family, my grandfather Alex Manoogian, my mother Louise Simone, and myself have always profoundly respected and known the importance of Artsakh and its people. In this heartbreaking moment, we are taking immediate action to provide tuition support to all the AUA Artsakh students so they need not carry this burden as we understand the profound stress they must be feeling now. This will not be our last step, but our first step. We are committed to finding ways, in other areas outside of AUA, to help those so cruelly and unfairly displaced,” says Christine Simone, President of the Manoogian Simone Foundation.  

Of the current AUA student population, 50 students from Artsakh are registered in undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The Manoogian Simone Foundation’s commitment will bridge the financial gap to fully cover their tuition obligation. This significant and generous assistance will ensure that these students and their families are relieved of the financial burden of tuition fees and can focus on their studies and other life priorities. 

During this most difficult period, AUA stands with its students and the people of Artsakh and shares the pain and suffering of the families displaced from their homes, of those separated from or grieving the loss of loved ones. In earlier newsletters and other AUA news coverage, we have featured many of these students and their goals for the future, including their anticipated return home after graduation to make a positive impact in Artsakh. 

As AUA strives to do what it can to help, the support of our donors and the magnanimous efforts by the Manoogian Simone Foundation are helping to mitigate some of the challenges that these students are facing. This financial aid helps cover the full cost of students’ tuition and other fees, while providing encouragement and hope that they will be able to continue to pursue their goals and accomplish their academic and professional aspirations. 

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values. AUA’s Office of Development stewards the University’s philanthropic efforts exclusively for educational purposes.