YEREVAN, Armenia — On October 17, the K. George and Carolann S. Najarian MD Building at the American University of Armenia (AUA) came alive with excitement and familiar faces, as alumni gathered for the much-anticipated AUA Alumni Reunion 2025, held under the inspiring theme “Legacy in Action: Strengthening AUA Together.” The annual reunion brought together graduates from across generations to reconnect, celebrate their shared legacy, and contribute to the continued growth of their alma mater. The celebration was especially meaningful for the anniversary classes of 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020.
The evening opened with a festive reception, during which alumni reunited over refreshments and had the opportunity to indulge in the food and drinks provided by the event’s generous sponsors. Alumni enjoyed the chance to network and reconnect while taking part in a silent auction held in support of the Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund. The live violin performance by alumna Tamar Arax Bardakjian (MATEFL ’15) added a special touch of elegance to the welcome reception. The lively atmosphere reflected the essence of the evening’s theme, which brought together alumni to strengthen AUA and empower future students.
The official program was hosted by AUA alumna Arevik Anapiosyan (MPSIA ’08), partnerships advisor at the United Nations in Armenia. She welcomed guests and led them through the evening’s agenda with warmth and enthusiasm. The Office of Alumni Relations team took the stage to extend heartfelt greetings to attendees, emphasizing the importance of alumni engagement, giving back, and the meaningful role graduates play in shaping AUA’s present and future.
In his address, AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian reflected on the University’s growth, recent achievements, and the invaluable contributions of its alumni community. He highlighted the continued impact of alumni support on AUA’s mission and the transformative opportunities the institution creates for current students. “We are here today to celebrate your collective efforts, which have produced three decades of impact on higher education in Armenia. This could only be achieved through alumni generosity and commitment to not only your alma mater, but also the broader University community, of which you are an indispensable part,” highlighted Dr. Boghosian.
The program also featured inspiring remarks by two accomplished AUA graduates: Mary Badalyan (LL.M. ’08), co-founder and CEO of EventToura, and Artavazd Mehrabyan (MSCIS ’03), co-founder and CTO of Picsart. Both speakers shared stories of their professional journeys and reflected on how AUA’s education and community shaped their success, stressing the significance of giving back. Badalyan emphasized the importance of mentorship and alumni engagement in different programs and opportunities that the University organizes, while Mehrabyan reflected on how alumni financial support strengthens AUA and its legacy. Their words underscored the power of the AUA network and the responsibility of each alum to give back and lead by example.
The Alumni Reunion 2025 was sponsored by MyInvest of Ameriabank. The General Sponsor reaffirmed its commitment to supporting AUA and fostering educational opportunities for Armenian students in its address to the audience. Ameriabank also presented MyInvest and offered a unique opportunity for AUA alumni. The Office of Alumni Relations extends heartfelt gratitude to Ameriabank for its continued support of the University and enthusiastic investment in education.
The audience also heard from Levon Yedigaryan (BSCS ’26), a recipient of a scholarship facilitated by the Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund. Through his personal story, Yedigaryan expressed deep gratitude to the alumni community for making his AUA journey possible. His heartfelt message was a vivid reminder of how alumni generosity continues to transform student lives.
This year’s reunion also featured the traditional fundraising campaign, with all proceeds directed to the Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund, established by AUA alumni to support future generations of students. Heartfelt thanks are extended to all alumni who participated in the drive and demonstrated the power of collective giving. In a remarkable first, AUA alumni employed at the University joined forces to establish a named scholarship in the amount of $4,000, showcasing their shared commitment to giving back. Similarly, AUA alumni working at Picsart united to fundraise internally for the Alumni Reunion 2025, further exemplifying the “Legacy in Action” spirit that defined this year’s celebration.
One of the evening’s most anticipated moments was the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award 2025, honoring an exceptional graduate whose professional accomplishments and community engagement exemplify AUA’s mission and values. The recipient of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award is Armen Gharibyan (MEIESM ’11). A pioneer of renewable energy and sustainable industry and a visionary entrepreneur, he is the co-founder and chief engineer at Areg.AI, co-founder at Aregi, co-owner of Operation & Maintenance Service LLC, CEO of New Energy CJSC, co-founder of Energy Service LLC, and co-founder of Optimum Energy.
The reunion concluded with a traditional group photo of anniversary classes, followed by the joyful cake-cutting ceremony. The night closed on a festive note, as Masha Mnjoyan and the Band took the stage for an exciting and exclusive performance for the guests.
Acknowledgments
The Office of Alumni Relations owes special thanks to its “Friend of AUA” sponsors, who generously shared their delicious products for attendees to enjoy throughout the evening: Karlen Manasserian (MSCIS ’17) from Tushpa Wines, Armen Mesrobian (BAEC ’18) from Oski Gin, Hayk Hakobyan (MBA ’16) from 379 Brewing Company, Vladimir Danielyan (MBA ’15) from Jermuk International Pepsi-Cola Bottler, Armen Gharibyan (MEIESM ’11) from Aregi Healthy Snacks, and Yeremyan Products. Each of these businesses is alumni-founded or led — a true reflection of AUA’s entrepreneurial spirit and a legacy in which we take great pride.
The Office is sincerely grateful to all alumni and friends of AUA: Robert Hovhannisyan (MAIRD ’26), Kyle Khandikian, Vanane Ararktsyan (LL.M. ’11), Mary Israyelyan (BAB ’20), Anahit Melkonyan (BAB ’23), and Garo Ardaz, who contributed unique items to the silent auction, turning it into a meaningful opportunity to give back.
As the night came to an end, one sentiment resonated among all — the AUA alumni community continues to thrive, united by shared values, achievements, and a commitment to strengthening the University together.
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.
