California State University, Fresno Armenian Studies Program Non-Profit and Armenian Students Organization U.S. Postage 5245 N. Backer Ave. M/S PB 4 PAID Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Permit No. 262 Change Service Requested FRESNO, CA HYE SHARZHOOM Armenian Action th FA| Armenia” Held in San Antonio Conference on the Committee of Union and Progress Staff Report

The Armenian Studies Program held an international conference on “The Committee of Union and Progress: Founders, Ideology, and Structure” on Friday, October 12, and Saturday, October 13, 2018 on the Fresno State campus. The Conference focused on the Committee of Union and Progress, who were the political leaders of Ottoman Turkey throughout most of the period 1908-1915. On the eve of World War I and the Armenian Genocide they had become the virtual political

dictators of Ottoman Turkey. The Hagopian Photo: Andrew Left to right: Tsolin Nalbantian, Seda Ohanian, Barlow Der decision-making processes and Left to right: Dr. Dikran Kaligian, Dr. Hans-Lukas Kieser, Dr. Mugrdechian, George Bournoutian, Vartan Matiossian, Ser- ideology of the CUP were to have Ümit Kurt, Duygu Coşkuntuna, Dr. Sergio La Porta, Dr. Yek- gio La Porta, Bedross Der Matossian, Ari Şekeryan, Richard drastic consequences for citizens tan Türkyilmaz, Dr. Raymond Kevorkian, and Prof. Barlow Hovannisian, and Jakub Osiecki. Photo: ASP Archive of the Ottoman Empire and for Der Mugrdechian. Staff Report Republic of Armenia. the Armenians in particular. The Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der Foundation, and the M. Victoria The Conference, co-sponsored conference participants analyzed Mugrdechian and Dr. Ümit Kurt Kazan Fund for Armenian It was more than 100 years by the Armenian Communities and discussed various aspects of (Van Leer Institute, Jerusalem) Studies provided support for the ago that an independent Republic Department of the Gulbenkian the CUP and also its relationships co-organized the Conference. The Conference. of Armenia was established, the Foundation, took place on with the Armenians. Thomas A. Kouymjian Family first Armenian state since the Thursday, November 15, 2018 Armenian Studies Program Foundation, the Leon S. Peters See CUP Conference page 7 fall of the Kingdom of Cilicia in in San Antonio, Texas. The SAS 1375. The Society for Armenian also held its Annual Membership Knights & Daughters of Vartan Recognize Prof. Studies organized an international meeting that same day, in conference, “Innovative Approa- conjunction with the Middle East Barlow Der Mugrdechian as “Man of the Year” ches to the History of the First Studies Association 52nd Annual and Stefani Booroojian as “Woman of the Year” Republic of Armenian, 1918- Meeting. 1920,” to mark this anniversary SAS President Bedross Staff Report and to bring together scholars who would shed new light on the First See SAS Page 6 The Knights and Daughters of Vartan announced that Prof. Dr. Richard Hovannisian Speaks Barlow Der Mugrdechian and on “Armenia: A Daring Adventure” news anchor Stefani Booroojian are to be honored as “Man of the Year” and “Woman of the Year” at a special Banquet to be held on Sunday, March 30, 2019. Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP Photo: Randy Vaughn-Dotta Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian Stefani Booroojian See Man of the Year page 8 Exhibit on Armenians and Early Armenian History Opens at the Fresno County Historical Museum Matthew Pajouh Staff Writer

An Exhibit on “Early Armenians in Fresno County” has recently opened on the second floor of the Fresno County

Photo: ASP Archive Photo: ASP Historical Museum, located at Left to right: Serpouhie Messerlian, Dr. Hagop Ohanessian, the Fresno Fairgrounds. The Dr. Richard Hovannisian, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Dr. Exhibit displays many interesting Sergio La Porta, and Dr. Ümit Kurt. artifacts and focuses on the early history of Armenians in David Safrazian to give a lecture titled “The Fresno County. The Exhibit is taff riter Republic of Armenia: A Daring S W centered on religion, agriculture, Endeavor, 1918-2018,” on business, and important Armenian “My Armenian identity is Thursday, November 1, in the monuments as well as featuring shaped by the Armenian flag and it Charles and Alice Gureghian those Armenians who have made

gave me a sense of purpose. It was Cultural Center in Fresno. Dr. Hagopian Photo: Andrew a significant contribution to the to be idealistic and not a realist,” Hovannisian’s lecture was part of San Joaquin Valley. Left to right: Richard Hagopian, Richard Ahronian, Brian Ta- said Dr. Richard Hovannisian. tarian, Jason Ahronian, Jeffrey Ahronian, and Prof. Barlow Dr. Hovannisian was invited See Hovannisian Page 2 See Exhibit Page 7 Der Mugrdechian at the new Fairgrounds exhibit. 2 Hye Sharzhoom December 2018 Armenian Studies Program California State University, Fresno Book/Video/CD Archival Gifts Armenian Studies Program Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Sergio La Porta, and the Armenian Studies Program would like to thank the donors, authors, and publishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, Spring 2019 Schedule of Courses and archival gifts, either offered personally, or to the Program. Course Units Time Day Instructor Linda Abraham, Seyfo Center, Simi Valley, for copies General Education-Breadth, Humanities, Area C2 of The Assyrian Genocide Seyfo: When, Where, and • Arm 1B-Elementary Armenian 4 10:00A-11:50A MW B. Der Mugrdechian How (2011), by David Gaunt. This book provides an (Class #32149) overview of the little known Assyrian Genocide. • Arm 2A-Intermediate Armenian 3 09:00A-09:50A MWF B. Der Mugrdechian Hrant Dink Foundation, Istanbul Turkey, for copies of: (Class #36557) Adana with its Armenian Cultural Heritage (2018), General Education-Breadth, Arts, Area C1 127pp., in English and Turkish; Develi with its • ArmS 20-Arts of Armenia 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh B. Der Mugrdechian Armenian Cultural Heritage (2018), 143pp., in English (Class #33208) and Turkish; Sivas with its Armenian Cultural Heritage General Education-Breadth, Area D3 (2018), 163pp., in English and Turkish; and Armenian • ArmS 10-Intro Arm Studies 3 12:00P-12:50A MWF H. Ohanessian Studies Past to Present (2018), 57pp., a report that (Class #36120) outlines the worldwide state of Armenian Studies. General Education-Integration, Area IC Ara Sarafian, Gomidas Institute, London, for a copy of Dr. • Arm 148-Mastrpcs Arm Cult 3 2:00P-3:15P MW H. Ohanessian Sarkis Karayan’s Armenians in Ottoman Turkey, 1914: (Class #33301) A Geographic and Demographic Gazeteer (London: Upper Division Armenian Studies Course Gomidas Institute, 2018), 664pp., in English. This • ArmS 108B-Arm History II 3 9:30A-10:45A TuTh B. Der Mugrdechian volume is the product of more than twenty years of (Class #32148) research and documents the more than 4,000 Armenian towns and villages in pre-World War I Ottoman Turkey. Get a Minor in Armenian Studies. Sharon Toroian, Fresno, for a copy of the May 19, 1981, For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669. Fresno Bee. The front page of the paper covered the Check on requirements for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the current catalog. death of noted author William Saroyan. http://www.fresnostate.edu/catalog/subjects/armenian-studies/armenia-mn.html HYE SHARZHOOM FA|

Music is a universal language, with messages and emotions that can be understood regardless of one’s background. Modern artists are always seeking new ways to push the boundaries of their craft, to continuously innovate. Armenian jazz pianist Tigran Hamasyan artfully melds modern and traditional sounds into his music and he also ties in many elements from the folkloric heritage of Armenia. On Friday, October 19, Hamasyan performed as part Photo: Christine Pambukyan Left to right: Claire Kasaian, Emily Sirabian, David Safra- Left to right: Keyboard Concert Series Director Andreas zian, Dr. Hagop Ohanessian, Ara Sarafian, Cole Egoian, of the World Music Series of the Philip Lorenz International Werz, Tigran Hamasyan, and Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian Kara Statler, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Marina Char- after the October 19 concert at Fresno State. dukian, and Hovsep Harutyunyan. Photo: Christine Pambukyan Keyboard Concert series at Fresno State. The concert was he added a final layer of his rich Hamasyan’s career has in- David Safrazian living in the Ottoman Empire presented in partnership with the vocals. Each new addition left cluded a number of accolades, Staff Writer in 1878, although the official Armenian Studies Program and the audience in a state of awe, including a top piano award at the Turkish position is that there were JazzFresno. The performance realizing the magnitude and 2013 Montreux Jazz Festival and “Much of Armenian history significantly fewer Armenians, in sold out, with many students diversity of his talents. After each the grand prize at the prestigious has been expunged from Turkey, the range of 800,000-1,200,000. and community members on new song, the audience responded 2006 Thelonious Monk Jazz not only in a physical sense, but This position, repeated by some the waitlist for tickets. With a with thunderous applause. Piano Competition. also in the sense of memory as scholars in the United States, is full house, excitement filled the Hamasyan is known for Born in Gyumri, Armenia, the names of Armenian villages another dimension of the Turkish Concert Hall. combining unexpected sounds in 1987, Tigran grew up in have been systematically erased,” denial. After 1915, there were Hamasyan did not speak much into his music. He incorporates a household that was full of stated Ara Sarafian. “States write about 2.2 million Armenians who during the concert, but rather let various sounds, and is able music. The family later moved history, and they can write people disappeared, so there were more his music speak for itself. He to beautifully compose songs to Los Angeles where Hamasyan out of history, and if Armenians Armenians killed then initially performed a wide selection of around them. In this performance, attended the University of don’t write their own history, then thought. Dr. Karayan’s research songs from his latest albums, For audience members were treated Southern California. He later their history will also be erased.” helps to undermine the official Gyumri (2018) and An Ancient to his singing, whistling, and lived briefly in New York before Sarafian, director of the Turkish historiography of the Observer (2017). even beatboxing. The concert settling once more in Armenia. London-based Gomidas Institute, period. Hamasyan’s set list displayed was not only a chance to listen After his final song, Hamasyan visited Fresno State on Thursday, Dr. Karayan used Armenian his wide range of skills and to Hamasyan’s music, but a received a standing ovation from October 25, to present the new sources, which had never before abilities. He not only performed chance to watch him as well. His the audience and was called back publication Armenians in Ottoman been used, in compiling his on the piano, but mixed performances were filled with his out for an encore performance. Turkey, 1914: A Geographic demographic data. Among the several songs as part of the live intense energy. It was not only His encore left the audience and Demographic Gazetteer by important records are those found performance. Hamasyan layered heard in his music, but also seen in stunned as he displayed his Dr. Sarkis Karayan. The book in the Armenian Patriarchate of several tracks on a synthesizer, his movements. He would bounce intense beatboxing and piano provides detailed information Turkey. He also used the records and then would switch to the with energy, sometimes literally skills. Afterwards, audience collected over more than 20 years of Western European travelers, grand piano after building up the standing up while playing. Other members enjoyed a reception of research documenting the who visited throughout the base of the song. After finishing times, he would sway with his and had a chance to meet with more than 4,000 Armenian towns Ottoman Empire in the 18th and this already impressive display, melodies. Hamasyan. and villages which existed before 19th centuries. His meticulous the Armenian Genocide. research will provide the basis for Hye Sharzhoom Begins 40th Year of Publication Dr. Karayan, who was born further scholarship in the field. student newspaper in the world. in Lebanon, began his research Dr. Karayan was determined to Hye Sharzhoom is operated by into the topic of Armenian find the statistics on every village students under the guidance demography when educator Dr. that was inhabited by Armenians of current Armenian Studies Stanley Kerr asked him, “how in Ottoman Turkey and Armenia. Program Director Prof. Barlow does one really know how many Sarafian stated that Armenians Der Mugrdechian, who also was Armenians were killed in the in Ottoman Turkey, 1914 is a a staff writer for the first issue in Armenian Genocide of 1915.” Dr. significant work because now 1979. This semester a new group Karayan concluded that to know there is a reliable source for of students is continuing the how many were lost, you first had information about the Armenians tradition. to know how many Armenians in the Ottoman Empire in the For students, Hye Sharzhoom there were in the Ottoman Empire English language, thus making it has also been a learning prior to 1915. more accessible. experience and has provided The accepted number of Each village or town in historic an opportunity to interact with Armenians lost in the Genocide Armenia and Turkey has both an faculty and the community. They is approximately 1.5 million original Armenian name and a cover stories, learn how to hone Armenians, but according new Turkish name, that is meant their writing skills, and offer their to Dr. Karayan, the numbers to erase the memory of Armenian opinions. were greater. Dr. Karayan used history. Sarafian demonstrated Staff Report dedicated students conceived of Due to the support of its loyal Ottoman Turkish sources, and this by showing various maps Hye Sharzhoom as the voice of the readers, Hye Sharzhoom has also Armenian documentation with the names of these villages The world has changed Armenians at Fresno State. That been distributed free to more to come to his conclusions. and detailed population statistics substantially in the past forty first special edition was devoted than 5,000 people throughout According to Dr. Karayan, there of Armenian, Kurds, and Turks years. In 1979 Armenia was to the Armenian Genocide, and to the world. While the bulk of were about 2.4 million Armenians who lived in each area. still part of the Union of Soviet its recognition. Few would have the readership is in the United “Even Turkish people are inter- Socialist Republics. Jimmy predicted that forty years later States, Hye Sharzhoom reaches ested in the topic of demography Carter was President of the United Hye Sharzhoom would still be distant shores as well. There because they have been denied States. Iranian militants seized going strong. are subscribers in Armenia, the access to this information the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and Each generation of students Middle East, Australia, Europe, about the Armenian Genocide,” held hostages. Mother Teresa has passed on the torch, as Hye and in South America. concluded Sarafian. won the Nobel Peace Prize. The Sharzhoom continues as the Wherever there are Armenians, Dr. Sarafian would like to Pittsburgh Steelers won the Super oldest continuously published there is Hye Sharzhoom. take the book to Turkey, to allow Bowl. The Academy Award for Turks to consider what their own Best Picture went to “The Deer Visit government has said about the Hunter.” Genocide. And in April of 1979, Hye Hye Sharzhoom online at: The book has an important Sharzhoom was published for hyesharzhoom.com historical role to play, but it also the first time on the Fresno has a significant political task to State campus. Armenian Studies combat continued denial of the Program Director Dr. Dickran All Back Issues are Available Online Armenian Genocide. Kouymjian and a small group of December 2018 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Saroyan House Museum Attracts Many Visitors Dr. Kurt Discusses Micro-History devoted to Saroyan’s drawings and paintings. This is a little of Aintab in Third Kazan Lecture realized part of Saroyan’s legacy. Each of these drawings or paintings consists of lines and shapes done in an abstract style. I wondered what Saroyan was trying to communicate. A fourth wall displays book covers from Saroyan’s books, many of which he designed. Finally, the most fascinating area in the museum is the hologram room. One stands in front of a room that appears to be Saroyan’s office with his desk and typewriter. Suddenly, Photo: TopHandMedia Saroyan’s voice is heard and then The Saroyan House Museum at night. Saroyan appears as a hologram. Dustin Vartanian He then continues to speak while image, composed of lines from Dr. Ümit Kurt, sixth from left, with students and faculty after Staff Writer Saroyan’s drawings, changes to he strolls around his office. It was his talk. Photo: Christine Pambukyan reflect Saroyan from different amazing observing this world- Staff Report It was William Saroyan’s wish famous author being brought points in his life, ending with The historiography of the that his home in Fresno would Saroyan House Museum logo. An back to life. Saroyan said one The July 23, 1908 Revolution Armenian Genocide has often one day be turned into a research illuminated white wall, filled with of the most interesting quotes I in the Ottoman Empire was a been told only through foreign center. Thirty-seven years after rocks that Saroyan had collected have heard from an author: “My significant moment in the history sources, whether through his passing his wish was realized. from around the globe, is the advice to young writers today of the Empire. There was great Ottoman Turkish archives or Saroyan’s home for the last 17 next stop. Each stone represents would be for God’s sake don’t hope that the reinstatement of through European archives, years of his life became the first a memory that Saroyan had, and take anybody’s advice because the 1876 Constitution would therefore neglecting the agency Museum and Research Center in Saroyan quotes are interspersed then you’re not a writer. If you’re guarantee equal rights among provided by Armenian sources. the world dedicated to him. on the wall with the rocks. a writer you don’t need anyone’s all of the citizens of the Empire, Sometimes these sources in The process to convert The main hall of the Museum advice, you don’t want anybody’s including the Armenians. The new Armenian are the only ones that Saroyan’s home into a museum contains several separate sections. advice.” ruling party, the Committee of touch upon important events. In was not easy. According One wall has ten monitors on The Saroyan House Museum Union and Progress, represented his lecture, Dr. Kurt presented to Professor Barlow Der which movies or TV shows based is a place where the more time these early hopes, but over the his arguments using as a source Mugrdechian, Saroyan’s original on Saroyan’s works or interviews you spend, the more you will be course of the succeeding seven the diaries of two men, Krikor wishes were at first ignored by with the author are playing. There able to learn. There are so many years, hopes for fundamental Bogharian and Fr. Nerses the Saroyan Foundation after are also documentaries about him, captivating aspects of Saroyan’s changes were progressively Tavukjian, both from Aintab his passing in 1981. Prof. Der including some made in Armenia. life that can be learned by visiting dashed. Ultimately the Armenians and both of whom survived the Mugrdechian explained that after One of the long walls in the House Museum. of the Ottoman Empire would be initial deportations of Armenians. Saroyan’s passing the Foundation the main hall is interactive, as Altogether, the Saroyan House subjected to a Genocide. Their diaries shed light on the decided to sell the property and images along the wall light up Museum is a must see for visitors History often addresses the motivations of Necmeddin Bey use the proceeds to establish a as the viewer passes by. One of from Fresno or from any place in role of great figures or great and explain some of his actions. special Saroyan exhibit at the these walls is devoted to images the world. events, but often it is individuals, Necmeddin Bey began his Fresno Metropolitan Museum. from Saroyan’s life, presented whose decisions shape the course political career as kaimakam Saroyan’s house was therefore chronologically from his birth Reservations to visit the of events. On Tuesday, November (district governor) of the area of sold into private hands and passed to his death. It was interesting Saroyan House Museum can 6, Dr. Ümit Kurt presented one Aintab. Because of his diligence through several hands until 2015, to think how much of a world only be made online by visiting such example in his lecture as kaimakam, he was looked upon when Artur Janibekyan, founder phenomenon Saroyan was the saroyanhouse.com website, entitled, “The Curious Case of as a reputable and honorable man of the Renaissance Cultural because of all the photos of him and clicking on the “Make a Ahmed Necmeddin Bey: A Look by both Armenians and Turks. and Intellectual Foundation, with people from around the Reservation” button. into the Sociopolitical Climate Appointed during the reign of purchased the house and decided world. The Museum is open Tuesdays- in Aintab on the Eve of 1915.” Abdul Hamid II, Necmeddin Bey to fulfill Saroyan’s dream. The The other main wall is Saturdays. This was Dr. Kurt’s final lecture was opposed to the Revolution official opening ceremony of the in a three-part series of lectures and refused to follow the orders Museum was on August 31, 2018, as the Kazan Visiting Professor in of the CUP. A group of CUP which would have been Saroyan’s Armenian Studies for Fall 2018. agitators then surrounded his 110th birthday. A plaque on the Dr. Kurt’s research focuses on house in Aintab and beat him, Museum states that Saroyan’s the city of Aintab, which held a and even threatened him with home had been placed on the significant Armenian population death. Necmeddin Bey escaped Fresno City and County Registers on the eve of World War I. Dr. and later was transferred to Syria. of Historic Places in 1989. Kurt, using a micro-historical He continued in political service, The Saroyan House Museum approach, studies the role and even though he was a dedicated is not an ordinary museum that agency that individuals had in autocrat from the Abdul Hamid contains physical objects from the Armenian Genocide. Thus, period. the author, rather, the Museum his talks offered new insight by Necmeddin Bey was able to focuses on Saroyan’s life story. studying the periphery of the hold onto power because the CUP According to the Renaissance Empire. did not have its own bureaucratic Cultural and Intellectual How the Ottoman Constitution and administrative cadres. Foundation, the mission of the was perceived by Armenians, Even after the revival of the Museum is to “educate and Turks, Arabs, Jews, and Greeks Constitution, many bureaucrats promote the legacy and works of Photo: TopHandMedia represented the central thesis throughout the Empire were still William Saroyan and also reveal Entrance to the Saroyan House Museum. in Dr. Kurt’s talk. He explained loyal to Abdul Hamid II’s regime. his talents as an artist; presenting about how ordinary citizens Although, the CUP attempted them in a nontraditional style reacted towards the Constitution, to purge the bureaucratic ranks through technology.” ultimately dividing the people of they were not able to discharge The House Museum has Aintab into two groups—those in everyone because they lacked a unique futuristic feel to it. favor of the new Constitution and their own cadres to fill these Inside, Saroyan’s life story is those firmly opposed. posts. told through different uses of The story of Ahmed Necmeddin Necmeddin Bey was appointed technology. However, on the Bey is central to this story as he as kaimakan of Salamiyya outside the House Museum ultimately was posted to the area in 1915, and his efforts to appears to be just an average of Salamiyya in Syria during the improve living conditions for home located in the middle of an 1915 deportations and massacres Armenians there and in particular ordinary neighborhood. of Armenians. Contrary to what his attempts to save Aintab’s Before entering, I pictured the might have been expected from prominent Armenian families still inside of the house to look like an Ottoman official, Necmeddin holds a place in the memory of how it did when Saroyan lived Bey actually played a benevolent Aintab’s Armenians. The diaries there. When I first stepped inside, role in the period by saving many of Bogharian and Fr. Nerses both I realized that this was not the of the Armenians of Aintab from case. An image of Saroyan’s face annihilation. See Kurt Page 6 was projected on the wall. The The Saroyan hologram room. Photo: TopHandMedia 6 Hye Sharzhoom December 2018 Masterpieces of Armenian Culture Society for Armenian Studies Conference Brings Course Has Diverse Students Scholars Together to Discuss the Rep. of Armenia SAS, From Page 1 Der Matossian (University of Nebraska, Lincoln) delivered the opening remarks at the conference. He stressed the significance of bringing together scholars to discuss important new research on the First Republic. The Conference was organized into two sessions: “The First Republic in the International Context,” and “Gender, Person- alities, and Culture During the First Republic.” The first session, chaired by Tsolin Nalbantian (Leiden University), consisted of Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Dr. Hagop Ohanessian, standing, with students of the Ar- three presentations. George Dr. George Bournoutian, right, speaking at the SAS conference menian 148, Masterpieces of Armenian Culture, class. Bournoutian (Iona College) spoke held in San Antonio. Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian on “The Territorial Demands of of Oxford) spoke on the topic rev. Antonio Delpuche to Yerevan ustin artanian D V the Armenian Republic: Reality of “Rethinking the Establishment as the Attempt to Establish Staff Writer poets and authors were directly versus Naiveté.” His comments of the First Republic of Armenia: Diplomatic Relations between impacted by the Armenian focused on Armenian demands Reactions of the Ottoman-Turkish the Republic of Armenia and the For thousands of years Genocide. Dr. Ohanessian also for land after the 1918 Mudros and Armenian Press in Istanbul.” Vatican.” Osiecki’s paper focused Armenia’s history has been stated that he appreciated “how Armistice. Şekeryan utilized Armenian on relations between the Catholic filled with literary masterpieces. Armenian writers are influenced Bournoutian discussed the role and Turkish newspaper from the Church and the Armenian Oral epics such as Hayk and Bel by their life experiences.” of two Armenian representatives period of May-October 1918, to Apostolic Church in the period and David of Sassoun are a rich The Armenian 148 class at the Peace Conference, illustrate his argument about the of the early twentieth century. part of the fabric of Armenian is diverse and students have Boghos Nubar Pasha and Avetis differing expectation between Statistics indicate there were culture. There are also stories that different reasons why they Aharonian, and their competing Turks and Armenians regarding some 66,618 Armenian Catholics explain the process of Armenia’s enrolled in this course. Some did visions for the territory of a the question of the Republic and 45 Armenian rite churches in conversion to Christianity. In so because the class fulfills an future Republic of Armenia. of Armenia. The Armenians in the Republic of Armenia in 1920. addition, Armenia’s literature has upper division General Education However, their vision competed Istanbul wanted to regain the trust While this may seem significant, several masterful poems written requirement. Others are in the with the interests of the Allies, of the Turks, by publishing articles in reality Armenia was isolated by a variety of famous poets. class because they had previously especially France, which had that expressed their fidelity to the by Georgia and Azerbaijan. The Armenian Studies Program taken other Armenian courses, already claimed Cilicia for Turkish state. For the Turks, it The only visit of a high-ranking at Fresno State gives students which interested them in taking itself. Bournoutian explained the was a question of what they may Catholic clergyman to Armenia an opportunity to understand Armenian 148 as well. difficult decisions faced by the lose in the establishment of the in this period was the result of Armenia’s literature and culture Some students are Armenian Armenian representatives and Republic of Armenia. having been officially invited to by offering a course called and wished to learn about the the complexity of the changing The second session, entitled Georgia Osiecki discussed the Armenian 148-“Masterpieces of history of their ancestors. “I political landscape. In the two “Gender, Personalities, and visit to Armenia by the Vatican Armenian Culture.” wanted to learn more about my years that it took to make a Culture during the First Republic,” representative Antonio Delpuche. “Masterpieces of Armenian Armenian culture. I really don’t final settlement at the Treaty of was chaired by Barlow Der Richard G. Hovannisian Culture” is a survey of the works know much about it so, I thought Sevres, the realities on the ground Mugrdechian (California State (UCLA, USC, and Chapman of Armenian authors from the fifth this class would help,” said Matt had completely changed. The University, Fresno). The session University) was invited to century to the twentieth century. Alam. promises made by the Allies, in included two presentations. offer concluding remarks at the The class also studies epics and Ani Sargsyan said she would which the Armenians trusted, Seda D. Ohanian (National Conference. oral history that date back as early now like to take other Armenian ended up unfulfilled. Academy of Science of Armenia) Dr. Hovannisian pointed out as the 9th-7th century B.C. The Studies courses while at Fresno Vartan Matiossian (Armenian discussed “Armenian Women that the study of the First Republic epics and oral history help one to State. She is planning to complete National Education Committee, in the Parliament of the First of Armenia is now entering a new understand who the Armenians an Armenian Studies Minor New York) spoke on “The Republic (1918-1920).” Her talk phase as new insight is being are and also about how they see because she found this class Recognition of the First Republic shed light on the little researched provided by scholars. themselves. so interesting. “I am taking the of Armenia in South America fact that three women served Hovannisian, the author of “In this class we survey Armenian Studies Minor because (1918-1920).” Matiossian’s pre- in the first parliament of the a four-volume history of the Armenian literature as a mean of Armenian 148 was so interesting. sentation discussed the efforts of Republic of Armenia. Ohanian Republic of Armenia, emphasized understanding Armenian culture,” I like learning about Armenian one Armenian, Etienne Brazil, gave an overview of these women how the study of the Republic stated Dr. Hagop Ohanessian, culture,” stated Sargsyan. to convince South American and their accomplishments. has changed over the years. who teaches one section of the There are also some students countries to recognize the One woman, Katarina Zalian Hovannisian encouraged scholars course. In order to understand who are taking the class simply Armenian Genocide in the Manoogian made a significant to continue to reevaluate the Armenian culture, one must have because of their interest in aftermath of World War I. His impact in the life of the Republic. Republic of Armenia in light of knowledge of Armenia’s past. Armenian culture. “I have always efforts resulted in the recognition This was at a time when in the new archival sources. Even though Armenian 148 is not been interested in Armenian of Armenia by Brazil and United States women still did not The Society for Armenian a history class, it teaches students culture and I know people who Argentina in 1920, but the League have the right to vote. Ohanian Studies represents scholars and the history of the Armenians are Armenian and I am interested of Nations ultimately rejected also discussed the Parliament of teachers in the field of Armenian through literary works such in other cultures in general,” said recognition of Armenia. Etienne the modern Republic of Armenia, Studies. as stories, epics, poems, and Abigail Cunanan. Brazil served as a representative arguing that although progress The aims of the SAS are to historical writings. Dr. Ohanessian enjoys having of the Republic of Armenia in is being made in including more promote the study of Armenian Each student has a favorite a diverse group of students South America, although there women, there is more work to be culture and society; to facilitate the part of the class. “The most in his classroom. “I think it was at the time only a very small done. exchange of scholarly information interesting type of literature is necessary to have a diverse Armenian community in South The final presentation was pertaining to Armenian studies I have learned about are the student population in this course. America. His one-man efforts left by Jakub Osiecki (Jagiellonian around the world; and to sponsor epics. I liked learning about all It is an upper division General a large impact. University in Krakow), who spoke panels and conferences on the characters and my favorite Education course which attracts Ari Şekeryan (University on “The Trip of Apostolic Visitor Armenian studies. It publishes character is the talking horse in many students. In my experience Kurt, From Page 5 for entirely altruistic reasons. the peer-reviewed Journal David of Sassoun,” said Elias I find that both Armenian and refer to Ahmed Necmeddin Bey’s Those Armenians saved were most of the Society for Armenian Guerrero. non-Armenians are engaged deeds in saving the Armenians. often artisans and craftsmen, who Studies, available on its website: Professor Ohanessian has and curious about learning more “If we would like to judge history were useful in the construction societyforarmenianstudies.com. many favorite topics in the about Armenian culture and justly, we should not forget projects organized by Necmeddin course, including how Armenian taking other courses we offer.” Necmeddin Bey’s deeds and his Bey. But ultimately his decisions virtuous acts; we should give him led to the survival of some of his due.… Necmeddin Bey helped Aintab’s Armenian population. Hye Oozh save a few thousand Armenians Dr. Kurt presented a nuanced Saturdays • 9:00AM - Noon and a majority of them were from interpretation of a man who held Aintab,” wrote Bogharian. a position of power within the Fresno State’s Armenian Radio Show Dr. Kurt concluded the Ottoman bureaucracy, and who lecture by noting that although had many options, but chose to 90.7 FM-KFSR Necmeddin Bey saved many exercise that power to aid the Armenians, it may not have been Armenians. December 2018 Hye Sharzhoom 7 Thank You Annual Fund Donors CineCulture Features Fresno State Premiere of “Roots” (received as of November 23, 2018) Claire Kasaian Patrons Staff Writer Peter & Lisa Miroyan John & Ann Kalashian Ghazaros Kalenian The Armenian Studies Sponsor Program and the CineCulture Gary & Nancy Krikorian film series presented the Fresno Lina Melkonian Mark Merzoian premiere of the movie “Roots” Gloria E. & Ronald David & Nikki Nalchajian on Friday, November 2, to an Toomajian Victoria Parian audience of Fresno State students Ruben Shahbazian, D.D.S. and community members. Supporters Directed by Vahe Yan, the H. Harry & Shushan 89-minute movie was filmed on Anonymous Vartanian the eve of the 100th anniversary Shant Agajanian Suzanne & Alan Yengoyan of the Armenian Genocide. Zaroohi Der Mugrdechian in honor of Harry & Lilit Martirosyan, who Rev. Patt (Altoonian) Mary Topoozian producer “Roots,” was invited from Armenia to be a discussant Herdklotz Archive Photo: ASP for the film.She is a 1996 graduate Left to right: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, producer Lilit CUP Conference, From Page 1 from the Yerevan State University, Oriental Studies Department, Martirosyan, Dr. Mary Husain, and Dr. Hagop Ohanessian. Prof. Der Mugrdechian the ideology of pan-Turkism but found her true passion in comments on his posts. between the two would be more convened the Conference on which was adopted by the CUP. the entertainment industry. She The story is centered on their raw and more real. Friday, October 12, and gave After 1923 Pan-Turkism became has extensive experience in the budding whirlwind romance in “I loved how this movie was opening remarks outlining the meaningless in its territorial film industry and also organizes, their motherland during one of filmed while the real events were background of the topic. dimension, but Dr. Keiser argued coordinates and produces various the most iconic commemorations going on. Finding your Armenian that Kemal Atatürk’s “Turkish TV projects, concerts and events. in Armenian history. identity, which I felt was the History Thesis” was strongly “Roots” is about Aram, who After the showing Martirosyan theme of the film, was portrayed influenced by it. was born in Armenia but moved answered questions from the very well. When you live in the to Boston at an early age. He is audience. She also spoke about Diaspora and visit Armenia it a journalist and blogger who some of the challenges in the changes your life forever,” said travels to Armenia for the 100th process of making the film. student David Safrazian. anniversary of the Armenian Martirosyan explained that Another student, Dustin Genocide to report about the the two main characters, Aram Vartanian, said “I thought it was special events. and Anet, were not professional a unique that the movie was both During his trip he meets Anet, actors. informational and entertaining at who is from France. Ironically She said non-professionals the same time. It’s cool how they Raymond Kevorkian Anet, is one of Aram’s most were cast in the movie because combined two story plots into one avid blog followers, and always it was felt that the connection film.” The keynote address was Photos: Andrew Hagopian Photos: Andrew given by Dr. Raymond Kevorkian ARF). These relationships and Duygu Coşkuntuna Exhibit, From Page 1 to introduce the community to the (Université Paris VIII, Saint- interactions were experienced not Exhibit and representatives of Denis [Emeritus]) on “The Duygu Coşkuntuna (Princeton in a unitary and stagnant fashion, Jeffrey and Jason Ahronian, various community organizations Young Turk Regime: Ideology University) spoke on “Homeland but in a rather diversified and who are both graduates of Fresno attended. Brian Tatarian announ- in Command.” Kevorkian, who and Nation Revisited: A Discourse gradually transforming manner. State, are proud of designing and ced that the Exhibit received penned the authoritative The Analysis of the Memoirs of the Dr. Türkyilmaz drew on ARF, creating an Exhibit that would be the coveted Blue Ribbon award, Armenian Genocide: A Complete Young Turks.” Her talk sought Ottoman, British and missionary exciting for the community. They which is the highest honor to be History (2011) discussed certain to explain the frame of mind of archival documents, periodicals were assisted in the planning and awarded by the Western Fairs aspects of the ideology that the CUP from 1908-1918. She and memoirs for his paper. development of the Exhibit by Association (an organization prevailed among Young Turks, utilized their memoirs, and the Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, consisting of more than 120 of observing in particular that the memoirs of their contemporaries Richard Ahronian, and Richard the finest fairs in North America). need for a centralized state was, in her research. Coşkuntuna Hagopian. Planning for the The Armenian Exhibit consists for them, a fundamental and discussed the establishment of Exhibit began in November of of a large pictorial wall with unquestionable principle. In the CUP concept of “homeland,” 2017 after the Ahronians had information about Armenian particular Kevorkian developed emphasizing the vagueness of visited the Fresno Fair and work history, the Armenian Genocide, the concept of how the CUP its imagined boundaries. She on the Exhibit was completed by and about the migration of viewed the relationship between provided a framework for the October 1. Armenians to Fresno and the San the state and army, and of society “making” of Turkishness and the The Ahronians worked closely Joaquin Valley. and the state. results of that concept. with Brian Tatarian, President of The Armenian Exhibit also The second session of the the Friends of the Big Fresno Fair, features two kiosks which Conference took place on and John Alkire, CEO of the Big provide information and photos Dikran Kaligian Saturday, October 13, and was Fresno Fair. They liked the idea of prominent Valley Armenians, chaired by Dr. Sergio La Porta, Dikran Kaligian (Worcester of an expanded Armenian Exhibit such as Jerry Tarkanian, William Berberian Professor of Armenian State University) spoke on and gave the Ahronians flexibility Saroyan, and Kirk Kerkorian. Studies at Fresno State. “When Revolutionaries Must on designing the project. Many other well-known Ar- Govern: The Vicissitudes of Jeffrey and Jason collected the menians in the community are ARF-CUP Relations.” After the information, took photos, wrote included in the Exhibit. Young Turk Revolution of 1908 text, and helped design the layout More than 40,000 people the Committee of Union and on the wall and the interactive visited the Historical Museum Progress gradually took control of computer displays. during the Fair, among them the government of the empire, and A reception was held on Hans-Lukas Kieser many Armenians throughout the began working with the Armenian Thursday, September 6 at the Dr. Hans-Lukas Kieser Revolutionary Federation, both in Fresno County Historical Museum See Exhibit Page 8 (University of Newcastle, Parliament and in the countryside. Australia) presented his paper Dr. Kaligian discussed the often- Dr. Kurt first examined the on “Talaat Pasha and Ziya contentious relations between the structure of the Aintab CUP Gökalp.” Both Talaat and Gökalp two parties as the CUP attempted branch, its organizational for- mation, members and relationship played a fundamental role in Yektan Türkyılmaz to generate public support for the development of the CUP the constitutional system in the with the Armenian Revolutionary ideology. Gökalp was the spiritual Yektan Türkyılmaz (Forum face of reactionary opposition Federation in the city. He also father of Turkish nationalism, Transregionale Studien, Berlin) while the ARF pursued rights explored the nature of the whose impact is still being felt gave his presentation on and reforms for the Armenian relationship between Armenians in Turkey. Dr. Keiser elaborated “Evaluating the Determinants community. and Muslims in the pre-World on the political friendship and of the Variations in the CUP Ümit Kurt (Van Leer Institute, War I period. interaction between these two and ARF Relationships across Jerusalem) presented his paper The scholars who participated leaders. the Provinces.” His paper on “The Structure of the CUP in Ümit Kurt in the international conference Dr. Kieser explored Gökalp’s explored the close contacts and Aintab.” declaration of the Second “The Committee of Union and impact on nationalism in the even cooperation between the Dr. Kurt’s talk focused on Constitutional Era and the Progress: Founders, Ideology, and Republic of Turkey, both before perpetrator political organization how the Turks, Kurds, Arabs, restoration of the Constitution Structure” brought new insight and after World War I. He provided (the CUP) and the most Armenians, Greeks, and Jews of and the Parliament on 24 July into the CUP. Their research will an in-depth study on Gökalp in prominent political organization Aintab greeted the Committee 1908 with excitement and much be the basis for future studies on the 1910s, when he promulgated of the victim group (the of Union and Progress’ (CUP) hope. the topic. 8 Hye Sharzhoom December 2018 The Armenian Studies Program presents Armenian Studies Program

“The Missing Pages: The Modern Life 31th Annual Banquet of a Medieval Manuscript, Celebrating from Genocide to Justice” the 40th anniversary of Hye Sharzhoom Dr. Heghnar Zeitlian Watenpaugh (University of California, Davis) Sunday, March 17, 2019 In 2010, the world’s wealthiest art institu- tion, the J. Paul Getty Museum, found itself Reception-5:00PM • Dinner-6:00PM confronted by a century-old genocide. The Fort Washington Country Club • 10272 N. Millbrook • Fresno Armenian Church was suing for the return of eight pages from the Zeytun Gospels, a $50 per person • Table Sponsors $2,000 • $25 Fresno State students manuscript illuminated by the greatest me- Please respond by Friday, March 8, 2019 dieval Armenian artist, Toros Roslin. Pro- tected for centuries in a remote church, the Armenian Studies Program 559.278.2669 holy manuscript had followed the waves of displaced people exterminated during the The Knights and Daughters of Vartan Armenian genocide. Passed from hand to hand, caught in the confusion and brutality “Man & Woman of the Year” Banquet of the First World War, it was cleaved in two. Decades later, the manu- script found its way to the Republic of Armenia, while its missing eight pages came to the Getty. Honoring Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian The Missing Pages is the biography of a manuscript that is at once art, and sacred object, and cultural heritage. Thursday, April 4, 2019 • 7:30PM News Anchor Stefani Booroojian University Business Center, Room 191 Auditorium Saturday, March 30, 2019 Fresno State Fort Washington Country Club Free admission and parking (with code) 10272 N. Millbrook, Fresno For educating the community on topical issues in matters The Armenian Studies Program regarding our rich Armenian cultural heritage. and the Lorenz Keyboard Concert Series Proceeds to Benefit the Knights and Daughters of Vartan Charitable World Music Series Projects, the Armenian Studies Program, and the Armenia Medical Mission present $65 per person-$650 per table of ten. No tickets sold at the door. The Cadence Ensemble Cocktail Reception 5:30 PM-Hors d’oeuvres & Wine; 6:00 PM-Dinner & Dancing In 2004 five outstanding 559-438-4646/[email protected] Armenian instrumentalists For questions, please contact: Ara Karkazian [email protected] formed the Cadence En- Kevork Oflazian [email protected] semble. They continually expanded their repertoire and Man of the Year, From Page 1 the Society for Armenian Studies anchor desk since 1984. During rapidly developed into what Der Mugrdechian has been and has led student study trips to that time, she has reported on they are known for today: teaching at Fresno State for Armenia. many changes and events in the one of the world’s premier thirty-four years and has been Stefani Booroojian is a Fresno Central Valley. ensembles performing origi- the Director of the Program since native and one of the most She has recently made multiple nal works and arrangements 2008. He teaches a variety of recognizable names in KSEE 24 trips to Armenia to report on the by classical and contempo- Armenian Studies courses. News history. She has been on country and on projects that have rary European, Russian, Armenian, and American composers. ties to the Valley. He has served as President of KSEE24 for 27 years and at the Co-sponsored with the Orpheus Chamber Music Ensemble. The Armenian Series at Fresno State Fifty Years General Editor: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian of Armenian Friday, April 26, 2019 • 8:00PM Literature Ordering information: in France The Concert Hall, East Music Building • Fresno State The Press at California State University, Fresno Tickets required. 2380 E. Keats, MB 99, Fresno CA 93740-8024 559-278-3056 • [email protected] $20 a copy http://keyboardconcerts.com/ www.thepressatcsufresno.org

Exhibit, From Page 7 The Ahronians wanted to have HYE SHARZHOOM San Joaquin Valley who traveled everyone who visited to feel to the Fresno Fair to see this new some kind of attachment to the NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT exhibit. Exhibit. They have received The Ahronians raised private many positive reactions and so Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the world. funding from the community, feel they have reached their goal. Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts with which made the completion of The Exhibit is open daily donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance because of the Exhibit possible. They have during the Big Fresno Fair held in but a tour of the Fresno increased mailing costs. plans to expand the Exhibit October, every year with more photos and County Historical Museum year- information. round can be scheduled year- Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a donation The community has been round, by calling (559) 650- of: $ very receptive and supportive. FAIR.

Name: Thank You Donors Mr. & Mrs. Russell Adams Fresno Address: City: State: Zip: Bill & Shirley Armbruster Clovis Hovhannes Bezazian Fresno Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian Fresno in memory of Anahid Vartanian Armenian Studies Program Avak Howsepian Fresno California State University, Fresno Gina Injayan Walnut Creek 5245 N. Backer Ave PB4 Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Fresno Fresno CA 93740-8001 Marianne Sarajian Lompoc