YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) is pleased to announce the appointment of three new program chairs. Effective July 1, Dr. Uros Prokic will assume the role of Master of Public Affairs program chair, Dr. Sergey Tantushyan the role of Master of Business Administration program chair, and Dr. Arman Tatoyan the role of Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice program chair.
Read about each incumbent chair’s vision, motivation, and more below.
What vision do you have for your program as program chair?
Dr. Prokic: My vision for the MPA program is twofold: 1) gradually change the public service culture in Armenia; and 2) emphasize the need for evidence-based public policymaking in Armenia. Far too often, public policymaking is victim to private interests and whims. The need to uphold the public good in a spirit of integrity, all the while upholding public sector values, is imperative. The need for service leadership is now more important than ever. At the same time, public decisions are driven by officials’ opinions, with limited regard for the sciences and evidence. Getting the public sector to embrace the scientific method for public decision-making is not only imperative for sustainability, but also vital for state competitiveness in this globalized world.
Dr. Tantushyan: I think the MBA program should be a boutique program, with a set focus on the expansion of strategic thinking, marketing knowledge, and decision-making based on data. At the same time, its contents should be tailored to a given year’s cohort with each intake. As a person, I am very much cooperation-oriented, and I will rely on guest speakers, company visits, real-life projects with external clients, and cross-listing courses with other programs.
Dr. Tatoyan: My vision is to cultivate an inclusive and dynamic learning environment where students are empowered to become compassionate and skilled advocates for human rights and social justice. Together, we aim to raise awareness of historical injustices and deepen our understanding of today’s world through a blend of theory and practical experiences. I emphasize not only global issues, but also their local manifestations at national and community levels. By fostering analytical thinking, ethical guidance, and teamwork, our program aims to drive meaningful societal progress. Through community partnerships and a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we will prepare graduates to lead efforts in promoting human rights and social justice across various professional and civic arenas.
What are some challenges you anticipate in your new role?
Dr. Prokic: Frankly speaking, changing the mindset in how we understand public service and how we approach public decision-making is the greatest obstacle to overcome. This requires time. Public decision-making is usually made in and around institutions. Institutional legacy, both positive and negative, abounds. Institutional change takes much time and effort. However, people can change institutions and my hope is that our MPA graduates will be change makers. We are not only teaching our MPA students tools and techniques of public affairs, but also teaching them how to approach public questions and problems, all within a normative-laden program.
Dr. Tantushyan: The challenge, I think, would be to create a cohesive cohort, not compromising on the admissions standards. Especially after COVID, admissions requirements for programs such as the MBA became less and less rigorous. We should keep the quality up and help students form appropriate expectations.
Dr. Tatoyan: Some anticipated challenges may include navigating diverse perspectives on contentious issues, ensuring inclusivity in curriculum and activities, demonstrating human rights protection and social justice results internationally amidst geopolitical and global economic interests, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders with varying priorities. Effectively addressing human rights issues during emergencies and ensuring security are also crucial for advancing the program’s goals and impact.
What motivates you in your work/role?
Dr. Prokic: People. People are both a burden and blessing. Getting people to cooperate, overcome the collective action problems, and find common suitable solutions is a tall order. I firmly believe that behind all the tools and techniques, public service is about values. The only way to unearth these values is through an arduous process of education that leads to public servants who are conscious of themselves and those they serve and keep themselves accountable.
Dr. Tantushyan: I think my purpose in life is to educate, and not only in teaching. Everything I do, I try to do it on a level that is exemplary, and from which I can learn. So, I take this opportunity very personally.
Dr. Tatoyan: Serving as the chair of the Human Rights and Social Justice program goes beyond mere duty; it embodies a dedication to promoting a vision of a fairer and more inclusive world. It is fueled by a deep passion for education, a steadfast commitment to empowering others, and a fundamental belief in the inherent dignity, social justice, and rights of all individuals. In this role, I am privileged to contribute to cultivating a new wave of leaders who will actively work toward a society that is both just and compassionate.
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.