YEREVAN, Armenia — On December 13, alumni of the American University of Armenia (AUA) gathered at the AUA K. George and Carolann S. Najarian, MD Building for a networking and fundraising event. The evening, “Alumni Winter Wonderland,” brought together graduates from different years and generations, fostering connections and raising funds for the Alumni Endowment Scholarship Fund.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for networking, enhanced by a festive atmosphere and music from DJ May. More than 60 alumni attended, reconnecting with old friends and meeting graduates from other classes. Participants enjoyed the chance to support their alma mater while engaging in meaningful interactions.
Beverages for the event were generously donated by Pepsi, thanks to AUA alumnus Vladimir Danielyan (MBA ’15), the company’s general manager.
Narek Ghazaryan, AUA’s chief communications officer, and Margarit Hovhannisyan, associate director of the Office of Alumni Relations, opened the evening with remarks. Next, AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian welcomed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of alumni contributions to the University’s mission. “Beyond the festivities, tonight’s event carries a deeper purpose. By participating, you are contributing to the Alumni Endowment Scholarship Fund, which directly supports the next generation of students at AUA,” he remarked.
The evening concluded with a Christmas raffle, which added excitement and anticipation to the gathering. Twelve alumni won prizes donated by businesses founded or managed by fellow AUA alumni and friends. Among the contributors were Aregi, a leading producer of dry fruits and healthy snacks, founded by Armen Gharibyan (MEIESM ’11); Oski gin, co-founded by Armen Mesrobian (BAEC ’18); and ARARK knitwear, established by Vanane Ararktsyan (LL.M. ’11). Other contributors included Elizé jewelry by Marianna Movsisyan (MBA ’06); MOV Restaurant, co-founded by Ashkhen Tosunyan (GCHHM ’24); Yell Extreme Park, managed by Sona Ghevondyan (BSCS ’19, CHHM ’22); Karas Wines represented by brand manager Inga Ashigova (BAEC ’21); as well as the Tovmasyan Foundation, Photo Atelier Marashlyan, Danz, and Antheris Clinics.
Those who donated to the fund were given numbered raffle tickets as tokens of appreciation. Twelve tickets were randomly selected, with the winners receiving gift boxes. The announcement of winners brought an atmosphere of excitement and cheer to the room.
Looking ahead, AUA Office of Alumni Relations plans to host similar alumni reunion events in the coming year, promising creative and enjoyable opportunities to connect and celebrate. Through these events and other giving initiatives, AUA alumni will have the opportunity to give back to their alma mater and contribute to AUA’s mission of providing high quality education.
To support the next generation of leaders, donations to the Alumni Endowment Scholarship Fund can be made here.
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.
