YEREVAN, Armenia — For the Bilezikian family, giving back to Armenia has been a profound journey shaped by heritage, family, travel, and a growing connection to a homeland they have returned to over the years.
Although the family was born and raised in the United States, Armenia has remained an important part of their identity. “Our family has been in touch with Armenia for a long time,” Kate Bilezikian shared. Over the last decade, they have visited multiple times, each trip deepening their connection and admiration for how quickly Armenia continues to evolve. “We are amazed by how fast the country changes,” they reflected.
Their visits to Armenia have become a way to connect more with the country, strengthening their understanding of the Armenian culture, and community. Today, Bilzekians encourage others in the diaspora to do the same. “Coming here, we say our name with so much pride,” Lindsay Bilezikian said. “Here we find such a warm, loving, and brilliant environment to spend time with our family and friends.”
The Family’s Connection to AUA
Their relationship with the American University of Armenia (AUA) began three years ago when thousands of Armenians were displaced from Artsakh and moved to Armenia. At the time, the family was searching for a meaningful and direct way to help. “Our small gift became a very simple and elegant way to support the existing community from Artsakh so they could continue their education. Education is very important to our family,” Kate added.
During their recent visit to AUA in May, the family spent time meeting students and learning more about their educational experiences. The atmosphere at the University immediately stood out to the family. “The environment here feels alive,” Lindsay said. “You can feel how excited everyone is. The halls are busy, the students seem happy, everyone is engaged in different activities and using the spaces.” She compared the University to a beehive — energetic, collaborative, and constantly in motion.
When meeting their scholarship recipients, the family found themselves deeply inspired by the younger generation’s determination to stay in Armenia. The meeting left the Bilzekians inspired and hopeful. “It was wonderful to hear more about their journeys, their plans, who they are, and how they want to continue their education and help their communities. The fact that they were so passionate about staying in Armenia gives us a lot of confidence about its future,” the family remarked.
Creating Impact in Armenia
The philanthropic work of the Bilezikian family in Armenia focuses on creating a direct impact on people’s lives. “Our family foundation comes to Armenia to look at different nonprofits,” Greg Bilezikian said. As a family, they visit organizations, engage, and discuss where their time, support, and resources can make the greatest difference. “It is a very proud opportunity for us to be able to participate here, to give back and contribute,” Greg shared.
Over time, the family has come to believe that even smaller acts of giving can create lasting and meaningful change. “Sometimes smaller donations make the larger impact, and it ripples out,” Lindsay said. “By returning many times over, coming back to Armenia, you can actually see it and watch it grow,” she added.
The Bilezikian’s Approach to Giving Back
For those still finding their footing in philanthropy, The Bilezikian’s advice was straightforward: “Someone who is new to becoming a donor may feel intimidated, not knowing where to start or who to ask for direction,” Lindsay said. “My advice would be to bring a friend and start something small.” For her, community involvement begins simply with showing up. “We live in a time where it is easier to stay quiet, easier to stay home and not be involved,” she explained. “But if you find something that speaks to you and bring a friend, then you start making connections.”
In parallel, Greg emphasized the importance of listening carefully and understanding the needs of the communities being supported. “Our intention is to be here, to be present, and to learn,” he said. “Finding that balance is really important, because sometimes the donor wants to accomplish one thing, but the recipient may need something else at that moment” he noted.
Greg compared philanthropy to a symphony, where every contribution, no matter how small, plays an important role. “This trip has been interesting because we learned that you have to give to what speaks to you,” he shared. “The most important thing is to participate and get involved.”
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 (WSCUC) 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.
