AUA’s Giving Tuesday Campaign Exceeds Goal to Support Students From Artsakh

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YEREVAN, Armenia — This year, the American University of Armenia (AUA) celebrated Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity observed annually, with a campaign dedicated to raising funds for tuition assistance for students from Artsakh so they may successfully complete their education unencumbered. 

This initiative followed the magnanimous commitment by the Manoogian Simone Foundation to bridge the financial gap to fully cover the tuition obligation of 50 students from Artsakh currently enrolled in undergraduate and graduate degree programs at the University for the 2023-24 academic year, in light of the emergency situation created by the illegal occupation of Artsakh. The significant assistance pledged by the Foundation will ensure that these students and their families are relieved from the financial burden of tuition fees in order to continue their education uninterrupted and be able to focus on their studies and other life priorities. 

Amounts raised from Giving Tuesday 2023 will address the financial struggle in which many affected families have been plunged following the forcible displacement of over 100,000 indigenous Armenians from the Republic of Artsakh in late September. Through the generosity of AUA’s global community of donors, the Giving Tuesday campaign concluded with a total of $46,500 pledged for the earmarked purpose. 

Vice President of Development Gaiane Khachatrian comments, “We want our students from Artsakh to know that we care for them and are here to support them in their academic pursuits.” 

The funds raised through the Giving Tuesday campaign are intended to support students from Artsakh with identified financial need. Eligible students who meet the established AUA financial aid criteria can formally apply for assistance, following the University’s financial aid application procedure and deadlines. 

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.