YEREVAN, Armenia — On April 9, the American University of Armenia (AUA) hosted the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires David Allen, accompanied by Cultural Attaché Nathan Austin and Hasmik Mikayelyan, Public Engagement Specialist, Public Diplomacy Section.
The delegation first met with AUA President Dr. Bruce Boghosian to discuss partnership between the Embassy and the University. Following the meeting, President Boghosian guided the guests to the Akian Art Gallery for a meeting and Q&A session with AUA students.
President Boghosian opened the event by introducing David Allen to the audience. In his remarks, he highlighted the Master of Arts in Multiplatform Journalism (MAMJ) program developed in partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Armenia, and introduced the topic of the event, encouraging a meaningful discussion.
Following the President’s speech, David Allen delivered his address, presenting the Freedom 250 initiative — a series of programs dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. He emphasized that the initiative aims to highlight the lesser-known individuals behind the Declaration, whose contributions are often overshadowed by more widely recognized historical figures. He also spoke about potential internship opportunities at the U.S. Embassy Yerevan, encouraging AUA students to participate and underscoring the long-standing partnership between the Embassy and AUA.
The speeches were followed by a Q&A session moderated by the MAIRD and MPA Interim Program Chair Dr. Jean-François Caron. The audience included students from different academic programs, as well as faculty and staff members.
The discussion covered a range of topics, including interests versus values in foreign policy, the current geopolitical issues, the evolving Armenia-U.S. partnership in military and economic spheres, and how the concept of freedom has evolved over the past 250 years.
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.
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