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HYE SHARZHOOM th Armenian Action 30 FA|

HAGOP OHANESSIAN STAFF WRITER

Friday, April 24, marked the 94th commemoration of the Arme- nian Genocide, and Armenians all over the world came together to remember the past, even as stu- dents of Fresno State’s Armenian Students Organization (ASO) held their own commemorative event. Students from Fresno State, both

Mugrdechian Armenian and non-Armenian, and members of the community, came Der together in the Free Speech area, not only to remember and reflect Barlow on the past, but to look at the future. During the week, the ASO distrib- Photo: The Arax Dancers performed two dances, “Moush,” and L. to R.: Dr. George Bournoutian, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, uted flyers and brochures about the “Adana,” dedicated to the memory of the Armenian Genocide. Fresno State President Dr. John Welty, Ambassador John Armenian Genocide in order to Ordway, Keith Simmons, Bruce Janigian, and Dr. Bill Erysian. bring awareness on campus. The man Empire were killed in their placed around the Free Speech area Photo: Joseph Vasquez Armenian Genocide, which began historic homeland. and a replica of the Armenian Mar- STAFF REPORT tables joined guests for this special on April 24, 1915, lasted up to 1923 During the commemorative cer- tyrs Monument which is in Yerevan, occasion. and it is estimated that more than emony, photographs, and posters The Armenian Studies Program SEE APRIL 24 PAGE 8 Fresno State President Dr. John 1.5 million Armenians in the Otto- about the Armenian Genocide were at California State University, Welty greeted the special guests at Fresno held its 21st Annual Ban- the Banquet: former Ambassador Hye Sharzhoom Celebrates 30th Anniversary quet on Sunday, March 15, at the to Armenia John Ordway, former PATEEL MEKHITARIAN Fort Washington Golf and Country USAID Mission Chief in Armenia Club in Fresno. There was an excit- EDITOR ing feeling in the air as many no- SEE BANQUET PAGE 7 Hye Sharzhoom is an ethnic Fresno State Students Engage in supplement to The Collegian, the Fresno State campus newspaper. Political Advocacy Workshop Hye Sharzhoom is published quar- paper. This year celebrates a mile- 1977, and also was instrumental in terly, covering special Armenian stone for Hye Sharzhoom, its 30th establishing Hye Sharzhoom, I events at Fresno State and in the anniversary, which symbolizes the learned a lot about the beginnings community. The goal of Hye strong maintenance of the Arme- of the paper. Sharzhoom is to inform the public nian culture in society today. In 1976, Dr. Kouymjian was about what is occurring with Ar- Armenian Studies courses have recruited to Fresno from Paris, menian students on campus, and to been offered at Fresno State since where he was living at the time, report on events that have occurred the 1960s, before Hye Sharzhoom after teaching eight years in Cairo in Fresno. The Armenian Students came into existence. After inter- and Beirut. He sought a method to Organization and the Armenian viewing Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, attract the Armenian students on Studies Program are involved in Berberian Professor of Armenian campus, to get involved with fel- the process of writing, editing, and Studies Emeritus, who established HYE SHARZHOOM PAGE 6 preparing articles published in the the Armenian Studies Program in SEE Society for Armenian Studies 35th Anniversary Conference-“Armenian Studies at a Threshold”

STAFF REPORT L. to R.: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Yeghig Keshishian of the Armenian Assembly, Supervisor Debbie Poochigian, The Society for Armenian Stud- Stepan Kyutunyan, and Hagop Ohanessian. ies (SAS) held an international con- Photo: Armenian Studies Program Archive ference, “Armenian Studies at a STAFF REPORT Threshold,” marking the 35th an- the Western Region of the Arme- niversary of the organization, at the For busy college students occu- nian Assembly conducted a work- University of California, Los An- pied with classes and jobs, partici- shop on political advocacy with geles, March 26-29. pating in a workshop to promote Fresno State students on Wednes- The Society of Armenian Stud- participation in the political pro- day, April 22. His presentation in- ies is composed of scholars and

Matossian cess may not seem to be high on cluded a practical discussion on students (and some non-scholarly their radar screen. But the Arme- why advocacy is important and how supporters of Armenian Studies). Der nian Students Organization orga- bills and resolutions are developed Its membership is international, nized such a workshop to bring in Congress. His power-point pre- although the overwhelming major- Bedross students face to face with the chal- sentation gave an overview of ity of members are based in the lenges that politics can bring. Photo: Yeghig Keshishian, Director of SEE ADVOCACY PAGE 8 SEE SAS PAGE 7 Scholars at UCLA for the SAS 35th Anniversary Conference. 2 Hye Sharzhoom May 2009 Armenian Studies Program California State University, Fresno Book/Video/CD/Archival Gifts Armenian Studies Program Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian and the Armenian Stud- ies Program would like to thank the donors, authors, and Fall 2009 Schedule of Courses publishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, and archival gifts, either offered personally, or to the Course Units Time Day Instructor Program. General Education Arts & Humanities, Area C2 Kevork Bardakjian, for the gift of the book The Historical Figures and Events in Some of Hagop Baronian’s Allegorical Works • ArmS 20 Arts of Armenia 3 9:30A-10:45P TuTh B Der Mugrdechian (Boston: Baikar Publishing, 1980). A gift of the author. (Class #73946) Kamron Jabbari, Ph.D., (Publisher), for the gift of the book Jambr • Arm 1A Elementary Armenian 4 10:30A-11:35A MWF B Der Mugrdechian (Archival Chamber) with an Introduction and Annotated Trans- (Class #72532) lation by George A. Bournoutian (Costa Mesa, CA: Mazda Publishers, Inc., 2009). Kamron Jabbari, Ph.D., (Publisher), for the gift of the book The Arts & Humanities, Area C1 Travel Accounts of Simeon of Poland with an Annotated Trans- • Arm 2A Intermediate Armenian 3 9:00A-9:50A MWF B Der Mugrdechian lation and Introduction by George A. Bournoutian. (Costa Mesa, (Class #73424) CA: Mazda Publishers, Inc., 2007). Satenig Karabian, for the 3 DVD’s, that are a compilation of Social Studies, Area D3 Armenian articles that were collected in her scrapbooks from 1930 – 1980, from Fresno, CA. Donated by the Hon. Walter • ArmS 10 Intro Arm. Studies 3 1:00P-1:50P MWF S LaPorta Karabian. (Class #72533) Martin Tourigian, for the gift of his original music compositions. Arts & Humanities, Area IC Erysian Recalls Early Days of Hye • Arm 148 Masterp. Arm Culture 3 10:00A-10:50A MWF S LaPorta Sharzhoom in Banquet Remarks (Class #76627)

Dr. Bill Erysian, one of the origi- anything we could squeeze onto Upper Division Armenian Studies Courses nal editors and co-founders of Hye those pages, including a special • ArmS 108A Arm History I 3 11:00A-12:15A TuTh S LaPorta Sharzhoom, shared some of his Armenian language page. (Class #72535) thoughts on the early years of the Thus began the long history of newspaper during the Armenian Hye Sharzhoom, the first and only Studies Banquet held March 15. student-run Armenian newspaper • ArmS 120 Armenian Church 3 12:30P-1:45P TuTh S LaPorta His remarks are reprinted below. in the world, with a circulation that (Class #76631) has now reached 7,000 and which It’s not difficult to recall what is sent to more than 40 countries. For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669 was happening on this campus, in You would be surprised at how or visit our offices in the Peters Business Building, Room 384. this community and in the Diaspora many places this newspaper has Get a Minor in Armenian Studies. Check on requirements thirty years ago. Because of a com- popped up over the years. As one bination of political events unfold- of the co-founders and original edi- for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the 2009-2010 catalog: ing in the late 1970’s that provoked tors of the newspaper, I am com- http://www.csufresno.edu/catoffice/current/armstudhd.html a resurgent awareness of the com- pelled to recount a couple of inter- plex issues still surrounding the esting experiences I had because of Genocide, a sense of patriotism and my early association with Hye historical identity had overtaken Sharzhoom that demonstrate the many Armenians in the world – 15 impact this publication has had. years before anyone would have A few years after I graduated HYE SHARZHOOM realistically anticipated anything from Fresno State, I left for gradu- like an independent Armenian na- ate study at the London School of tion. Economics in 1983. After settling FA|

STAFF REPORT by Dr. Theo van Lint, Calouste “Translation and other Creations: Gulbenkian Professor of Armenian The International Context of Ar- Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Studies at Oxford University, Dr. menian Culture,” by Theo van Lint, Director of the Armenian Studies Kevork Bardakjian, Dr. Khachig and “Translation: An Art of Cre- Program at Fresno State, partici- Tölölyan, Professor of English at ation or Simulation?” by Kevork pated in a workshop on Armenian Wesleyan University, Dr. Talar Bardakjian. literature held at the University of Chahinian of UCLA, and Prof. Participants had the opportunity Michigan, Ann Arbor, April 16- Barlow Der Mugrdechian of Fresno to interact in an warm atmosphere 19. State. at a dinner party hosted Saturday Organized by Dr. Kevork Papers covered many topics, night by Dr. Kevork and Flora Bardakjian, Marie Manoogian Pro- including “Some versions of the Bardakjian at their Ann Arbor fessor of Modern Armenian Litera- Armenian Epic Poem, Sasna home. The previous night, partici- ture at the University of Michigan, Tzrer,” “The Contemporary Novel pants were hosted for dinner at the the workshop brought together in Armenia,” and “Narrative Time home of Mourad and Ani

Harutyunian eighteen graduate students and and Diaspora’s New Novel: A Look Kasparian. scholars from throughout the world at Krikor Beledian’s Anune lezui Sona The workshop concluded in on to present papers and discuss the tak.” Sunday, April 19, with an open results of their research in the field Der Mugrdechian presented a Photo: forum on Armenia-Diaspora liter- of Armenian literature. paper on “Genocide, Identity, and ASP Coordinator Barlow Der Mugrdechian (left) with Dr. Talar ary relations, chaired by Prof. Der The workshop opened on Fri- Memory in Post-Genocide Arme- Chahinian, Dr. Kevork Bardakjian, and Dr. Khachig Tölölyan Mugrdechian. day, April 17. The format for the nian-American Literature,” focus- at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Participants then visited the St. workshop called for two or three ing on the works of late twentieth translation, a field that is deserving nian World,” by Sona Harutyunian, John Armenian Church in participants to each present for century writers and especially on of more attention. Papers in this “Durian and Translation: Many Southfield, and toured the Alex and twenty-five minutes, followed by a Peter Balakian’s Black Dog of Fate. panel included “The Reception and Journeys, Several Destinations, No Marie Manoogian Museum, before discussion. Sessions were chaired One session was devoted to Translation of Dante in the Arme- Arrival,” by Khachig Tölölyan, departing. Bill Erysian Granted Ph.D. from Author Janigian Introduces Riverbig Novel State Agrarian Univ. of Armenia STAFF REPORT dependence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the Republic of Armenia Author Aris Janigian presented launched one of the most aggres- his new book, Riverbig: A Novel, at sive land reform programs ever at- 7:30PM on Wednesday, April 1, as tempted by any of the former So- part of the Spring Lecture Series of viet states. Within a few months, the Armenian Studies Program. the entire structure of the Soviet Armenian Studies Program Di- style “collective” farms would be rector Barlow Der Mugrdechian in- dismantled and more than 320,000 troduced Janigian, who read sev- new private farms would be cre- eral excerpts from the book, cap- Vaughn-Dotta turing the spirit and mood of his

ated. The government began a sys- Mugrdechian tematic program to privatize live- novel. His intense prose and vivid

Der

Randy stock, inputs, farm machinery and imagination combine to make a fas- most of its processing sectors. In cinating book.

Photo: addition, the Armenian government This work is the follow-up to Barlow Dr. Bill Erysian would grant each family anywhere Bloodvine, Janigian’s acclaimed STAFF REPORT from 0.5 to 5.0 hectares of land as first novel, and continues the tale of Photo: part of the privatization effort. Andy Demerjian. Having finished Author Aris Janigian with Fresno State reference librarian Congratulations to Bill Erysian, A free-market economy was college, returned to farming, and Diane Majors at the Riverbig book-signing event. who received his doctorate degree born with an immediate dependence undergone a chain of disasters, he in Economics from the State Agrar- on this emerging agriculture sec- is now landless. Desperate to sup- pography as it transports the reader lives in Los Angeles with his fam- ian University (SAUA) of Arme- tor, which would soon be respon- port his wife and two sons, through the valley and into the ily. He returns to the Fresno area nia in November 2008. Erysian’s sible for nearly 40% of the country’s Demerjian embarks on a series of rhythms of rural life. annually to work as a grape packer accomplishments in the branches national income. Armenia’s inte- ventures that put his integrity and The book is based upon a tragic and shipper. He is the author of of transitional economies and agrar- grated system of a planned mettle to the test. and real episode in Janigian’s Bloodvine and the coauthor, with ian reform are the result of more economy, one that was tradition- The novel brings an unsettling father’s life. He wrote this book April Greiman, of Something from than a decade of research and par- ally controlled by Moscow, dis- look at the inner workings of one because “I loved my father, and Nothing. ticipation in numerous agricultural solved almost immediately and with family. Set in California’s Central wanted to tell the story that he never Riverbig was published in 2008 development initiatives in the Cen- it, the country’s once prosperous Valley, and ranging in time from got around to telling for himself.” by Heyday Books and is available tral Caucasus, particularly in Ar- agrifood economy. Now that cal- World War II to the drug wars of A second-generation Armenian at local bookstores or online at menia. culated production quantities and the 1960s, Riverbig explores both American, Aris Janigian was born www.heydaybooks.com. Erysian began working in Ar- exports markets were gone, the emotional terrain and physical to- in Fresno, California, and currently menia in 1996 as an advisor to the great factories that once helped USDA Marketing Assistance drive this centrally-planned By targeting the research, analy- a reduction of poverty, an increase campus California State Univer- Project, a foreign aid program origi- economy quickly fell silent. Most sis and assessment of the post-re- in manufacturing and consistent sity Consortium for International nally designed to provide technical production facilities in the country form condition of Armenia’s growth in the private sector. A Development. He also serves as and financial support to the were subsequently stripped of their agrifood sector, his ultimate pur- strong case is made for agriculture Executive Director for the non- country’s emerging agriculture sec- valuable metal and eventually sold pose is to promote the stable devel- to assume a critical role in the fu- profit Armenian Agribusiness Edu- tor following independence from off. opment of Armenian agriculture ture of the country’s economic de- cation Fund. He holds an under- the former Soviet Union. That pro- Thousands of jobs were lost in and explain how it continues to velopment. graduate degree in journalism from gram grew into the largest and long- the privatization process as agri- affect the country’s economy. He Dr. Erysian currently serves as Fresno State (1980) and an MSc in est running agribusiness develop- cultural output fell dramatically. also sets forth a calculated process Coordinator of Grants and Interna- International and Comparative Poli- ment project ever managed by the Independence, land privatization, of what steps the Armenian gov- tional Projects for the College of tics from the London School of USDA. and a blockade from the neighbor- ernment has already taken and Agricultural Sciences and Tech- Economics and Political Science. Erysian has also been a frequent ing countries of Turkey and should continue to implement, in nology at Fresno State. He is the He can be reached at international consultant and project Azerbaijan would quickly chal- order to nurture the proper devel- founder and current Director of [email protected]. director for the U. S. Agency for lenge Armenia’s ability to adjust to opment of a free-market economy, Resource Development for the five- International Development an agricultural-based, free-market (USAID), the World Bank, USDA economy without the help of any ERYSIAN, FROM PAGE 1 about Hye Sharzhoom is the in- – with Dickran Kouymjian peering Foreign Agricultural Service, historical road map. credible amount of work that went over our shoulders, smoking a ci- ACDI/VOCA and other interna- In his dissertation, Erysian pro- Sharzhoom on his desk. “Do you into producing some of those early gar. tional non-governmental organiza- vides an exhaustive account of read that paper?” I innocently asked. issues. We had no desktop publish- It was worth every minute… tions in the areas of agribusiness Armenia’s privatization process “All the time,” he quickly re- ing in those days. Personal com- A surprising number of indi- marketing, small/medium enter- and the challenges the country faced sponded. “But it’s in English and puters had not even been invented viduals have worked on Hye prise management and sustainable in its transition to an economy based you can’t read English,” I replied. yet. It was cut and paste, paragraph Sharzhoom over the years. Those development. He has managed on market forces. Specifically, he “It’s okay…it doesn’t matter what by paragraph, on a dimly-lit names appear in the booklet on twelve international development explores the role of agriculture in I can or can’t read,” he explained. lightboard in the basement of the your tables and some of those projects in five different countries this process and the gradual matu- “What matters is what is written in Daily Collegian university news- people are here today. They de- over the past thirteen years. rity of the agrarian sector of Arme- the paper.” paper office, late at night, strug- serve to be recognized. Following its declaration of in- nia over the past 15 years. Perhaps what I remember most gling to meet our printing deadline Thank you. 4 Hye Sharzhoom May 2009 Congratulations to Students Receiving Armenian Studies Minors

Name: Svetlana Bagdasarov the Masters Program in Public Health Administration and I am hoping to be accepted into that Major: Social Work program. If I am accepted into the program, I will begin in the fall and continue my education Minor: Armenian Studies for another three years. While attending school I plan on interning and volunteering to gain the work experience needed to prepare me for my career ahead. I am very passionate about Why did you pursue an Armenian Studies Minor? health and health education and I hope to be able to teach people one day. I decided to pursue an Armenian Studies minor in order to increase my knowledge of my culture. I can honestly Name: Mary Madoyan say that everything that I have learned about my heri- Major: Business Management tage was a direct result of my participation in numerous Minor: Armenian Studies Armenian Studies classes. What Armenian Studies class or classes influenced Why did you pursue an Armenian Studies Minor? you the most and why? I pursued a minor in Armenian Studies because I I truly enjoyed each and every Armenian Studies course wanted to learn more about my culture. offered during my undergraduate career. However, the What Armenian Studies class or classes influenced class that influenced me the most would have to be you the most and why? Armenian Studies 20 (Arts of Armenia). The course not The Armenian Studies class that influenced me the only expanded my knowledge on the various aspects of Armenian culture, but it also elaborated most was Armenian history. Armenians have such a on the many things that make it so distinctive. rich history; it was interesting to learn about everything How has taking Armenian Studies courses shaped your college education? they have gone through over the centuries. It is truly Armenian Studies courses were a great addition to my academic curriculum. The courses amazing that after all their struggles they still held on enhanced my college experience by enabling me to become a well-rounded individual through to their beliefs, language, and religion, and that today valuable information acquired outside of my field of study. their still stands a country named Armenia. What was your favorite college experience? How has taking Armenian Studies courses shaped your college education? My most memorable college experience would have to be the year that I served as a Wellness Armenian Studies courses have provided me with an abundance of information about Ambassador for the Wellness Ambassador Program here at Fresno State. Since I have chosen Armenia and Armenians that I was never aware of. They have helped me answer many to pursue public health as my ultimate career ambition, the time I spent working as a Wellness questions that I had about Armenians, and helped me fill in gaps where I only had bits and Ambassador was definitely the field experience that I needed to help me hone my skills as a pieces of information growing up. future public health professional. What was your favorite college experience? What are your plans after graduation? My favorite part of college was getting to meet new people and making new friends. College Graduate school is definitely on my list of priorities after I graduate. I am planning to pursue a allows you to network and meet people you probably would have never come in contact with master’s degree in public health in order to fulfill my dream of becoming a public health outside of school. professional working in the public or the private sector. What are your plans after graduation? After graduation, I plan to take some time off and hopefully do some traveling. After my break, Name: Gina S. Jelladian I am planning to find a management position in a hospital. Major: Real Estate & Urban Land Economics Minor: Armenian Studies Name: Peter Petrosyan Major: Business Management Why did you pursue an Armenian Studies Minor? I love my culture and I wanted to study it. What Armenian Studies class or classes influenced What Armenian Studies class or classes influenced you the most and why? you the most and why? All of the courses influenced me equally because they My favorite classes were the language classes, architec- all had interesting information about Armenian cul- ture, and the most recent Armenian Studies class with ture. visiting professor Dr. Bournoutian. How has taking Armenian Studies courses shaped How has taking Armenian Studies courses shaped your college education? your college education? The courses helped me realize that understanding dif- I took an Armenian Studies course nearly every semester ferent cultures assists you in approaching ideas and during my college education, so it was a nice filler to solving problems with different perspectives. space out all of my business classes. I’m not a huge fan of What was your favorite college experience? history, but all of the Armenian history, religion and My favorite college experience was meeting teachers literature of my people was invaluable! and students with similar interests. What was your favorite college experience? What are your plans after graduation? This – Graduating! My plans after graduation will be to find a career that supports my major, as well as pursue What are your plans after graduation? my MBA. Photos: Randy Vaughn-Dotta I will continue running my gift and invitation boutique, RSVP, with my sister Stephanie. You can visit us anytime at the Palatine Building on Fresno and Alluvial – we do all types of party Candice Denise Antaramian, graduated in December 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts and wedding invitations and have a beautiful collection of gifts! degree in History. A fuller listing of 2009 graduating seniors will be published in Hye Sharzhoom in the Fall. Name: Ariana Kasparian Major: Health Science (Option: Community Health) Minor: Armenian Studies Armenians on the Internet Why did you pursue an Armenian Studies Minor? A minor in Armenian Studies gave me the opportunity PATEEL MEKHITARIAN-EDITOR to learn so much more about my culture, religion and history. Going to church and being around Armenians Armenian Legends and Epics does not necessarily teach you about where the history started and where things are today. I wanted to learn the language, as well as how to read and write. I wanted www.armenianheritage.com, www.armenian-history.com to learn about the country itself and all the history behind the architecture. Receiving my minor was an Armenian literature is a major aspect of the culture. Literature may include a wide added bonus to going to college because I leave know- assortment of genres, such as fables, folk tales, myths, fantasy, poem, prose, and many ing more about myself then I came in with. others. However, early Armenian literature began with the oral legends and epics. In What Armenian Studies class or classes influenced many towns, storytellers (gousans) played music as they narrated these legends, reciting you the most and why? them as entertainment for the village people. Movses Khorenatsi, one of the earliest The very first class I took my freshmen year was an Armenian Architecture class. I took this class Armenian historians from the fifth century, is to thank for the preservation of the early with my older sister and we were truly inspired by this class. I learned the details of all the Armenian legends. Because of Khorenatsi, the early legends of the Armenian culture are different styles of Armenian Churches, and also about Armenian manuscripts. Seeing all the still being orally passed down today, from generation to generation. architectural structure and beautiful relics made me appreciate my culture and where my family A well-known legend from the Armenian culture is the story of “Hayk and Bel.” Hayk originated from even more than I already did. I have not had the opportunity to travel to Armenia, was an Armenian epic hero, who continually fought for his people. Bel was a tyrant, who but when the time comes, I feel this class prepared me for what I will be seeing. How has taking Armenian Studies courses shaped your college education? wanted Hayk’s power and land, however Hayk refused Bel. Hayk is today known as the Every course taken gave me a different type of knowledge. The Armenian Studies courses patriarch of the Armenians because he proved that it is better to fight for what you believe shaped my college education by presenting new material and teaching me about a variety in, rather than to live under tyranny. This legend is about freedom and the strength to stand of different things. They helped me stand out among my peers, because not only was I there up for oneself. Hayk portrayed these brave characteristics, and is therefore known as an to get a degree in something I love, but also to get a minor in something that is directly linked Armenian hero. to me. Another Armenian legend, recorded by Khorenatsi, is “Ara the Handsome.” Ara was a handsome Armenian hero, who was desperately desired by the queen of Assyria, Queen What was your favorite college experience? Semiramis. Queen Semiramis offered riches, love, wealth, and prosperity to Ara, The college experience in itself was an adventure, so it is hard to be able to pick just one. Those however because Ara was already married, he continually denied her foolish offers. experiences stem from the classes I have taken, to the professors I have met and from all the obstacles along the way. College was a great experience, and I learned so much from the classes Because of her frustrations, Assyria called for battle, where Ara the Handsome was I took and from the people I met. eventually killed. Once the queen was notified of his death, she yearned to bring him back What are your plans after graduation? to life, however her wishes were never fulfilled. This legend shows how loyal and faithful My plans after graduation are to take the summer off and relax for a while. I have applied for Ara was to his home, family, and himself. May 2009 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Dr. Bournoutian Gives Second Lecture on The Armenian Church Under Russian Rule

MARISSA ISQUIERDO and Middle Eastern Studies at Iona Church and are important because STAFF WRITER College in New York and the au- they remained in force until 1917. thor of seventeen books. Dr. Bournoutian mentioned that On Tuesday, March 24 at 7:30 Dr. Bournoutian gave a stirring historians view these Statutes as PM, Dr. George Bournoutian gave presentation on the history of the either having a positive or negative the second of his three part lecture Armenian Church under Russian impact on the Armenian Church. series on “The Armenian Church rule during the period of the He noted that some historians view Under Foreign Rule: Persia, Rus- Romanov Dynasty from approxi- these Statutes as either being “re- sia, and South Asia 1600-1800,” to mately 1600-1800. Audience mem- strictions placed on the Armenian a full audience in the Alice Peters bers learned that the Armenians Church by Russia” or as “the offi- Auditorium at Fresno State. In this living in Russia at this time had to cial document that gave the Arme- lecture, Dr. Bournoutian covered overcome Russian opposition to nian Church its autonomy.”

Mugrdechian the topic “The Armenian Church Armenians practicing their faith and Fresno State students showed under Russian Rule: 1600-1800.” to building Armenian churches. Dr. Der their appreciation for Dr. He spoke on how the Armenian Bournoutian noted that Armenians Bournoutian’s lecture. “It is fasci- community in Russia had to fight had settled in Russia since the time Barlow nating to learn about the Armenian for their right to practice their faith of Ivan the Terrible in the tenth culture and its impact in European in their own church and the signifi- century, so by the seventeenth cen- Photo: society in its development,” com- cant impact the Armenian Church tury, Russia had a substantial Ar- Dr. George Bournoutian and some students at lecture. mented Jonathan Munoz, a senior had on Armenians in Russia. He menian population, yet the Arme- permitted the Armenians to build a Moscow, St. Petersburg, and a sec- History major at Fresno State. Ani cited numerous sources, such as nians were denied the opportunity wooden church in Astrakhan. How- ond one in Astrakhan. Russia even Simonyan, a junior History major letters and official documents, to pray in Russian churches. ever, this church remained the only forbade Catholic missionaries from at Fresno State, felt that “Dr. which he himself had translated This changed in 1667 after Ar- Armenian Church for the entire converting Armenians. Bournoutian presented a history of from Russian into English. menian merchants presented a dia- Armenian community in Russia Towards the end of his lecture, 300 years in an informative way in Dr. Bournoutian is currently mond throne to the Russian Tsar, until 1762. Dr. Bournoutian focused his atten- our understanding of the Armenian Kazan Visiting Professor of Arme- who then granted the Armenian Under the rule of Catherine the tion on the Statutes (Polozheniye) Church under Russian rule.” nian Studies for the Spring 2009 community access to pray in Rus- Great, 1762-1796, Armenians en- of 1836. The Statutes defined the Dr. Bournoutian concluded his semester at Fresno State. He is se- sian churches. Thirty years later, joyed a period of prosperity and relationship between the Russian three part lecture series on Tues- nior Professor of East European the Russian ruler Peter the Great Armenian churches were built in Government and the Armenian day, April 21. South Asian Churches Focus of Final Lecture Dr. Bournoutian Ends Semester

had many Armenians, who pro- With Fond Memories of Students duced 85% of the jute, which is a Some of the material used for burlap and ropes. topics cho- The Armenians became wealthy sen by stu- through the jute trade. dents in- The church in Bangladesh has cluded writ- an octagonal dome, executed in an ing about the Armenian style. Until today, a care- A r m e n i a n taker is responsible for maintain- communi- ing the church and he resides in a ties of Rus-

Bournoutian house directly next to the Church. sia, France, Names here also started changing, Greece, Po- for example, Haroutoun Krikor George land, Hun- Simonian became Arratoon Gre- gary, Iran, gory Simeon. Today, there is only Photo: Syria, Leba- a single Armenian living in The Armenian Church in Singapore, built in 1835. non, Turkey, Bangladesh. Former Hye Sharzhoom editor Mark Malkasian Argentina, PATEEL MEKHITARIAN there are only some 200 Arme- Singapore is another country that (left) with Dr. George Bournoutian. the United EDITOR nians left in Calcutta. A major street was once home to a large Arme- Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian States, and many more. Other stu- in the city is now known as “Arme- nian community. A huge church HAGOP OHANESSIAN dents focused on the Armenian On Tuesday, April 21, Dr. nian Street,” and a resident priest was built in 1835 and is currently STAFF WRITER Genocide, the first Genocide of the George Bournoutian presented his from Etchmiadzin is responsible extremely well maintained and re- twentieth century. third and final lecture in a series on for all Armenian churches in South stored thanks to the former Arme- Dr. George Bournoutian, Pro- The most memorable moments the Armenian Churches of Persia, Asia. nian ambassador in Thailand. The fessor of History at Iona College in for Dr. Bournoutian were his three Russia, and South Asia. The lec- The Armenians living in India church is so large and beautiful that New York, was appointed as the public lectures where he talked ture covered the many areas in were greatly influenced by the Brit- non-Armenians, such as the Kore- seventh Henry Khanzadian Kazan about three important Armenian South Asia where Armenian ish merchants, who came to the ans, often wed at the church. There Visiting Professor of Armenian Diasporan communities. All three churches exist and are maintained. area to establish trade agreements. is a plaque in front of the church, Studies for the Spring 2009 semes- presentations were fascinating, in Dr. Bournoutian accompanied his Both Indians and Armenians were recognizing the building as the ter. This semester he taught a three particular the one on Southeast Asia talk with slides that he had taken increasingly influenced by the Brit- Church of St. Gregory the Illumi- unit course on the Armenian where he showed photos of the during his numerous trips to the ish throughout the years, for ex- nator. Diaspora and Genocide, Monday different Armenian churches. region. ample, Armenians started chang- Surprisingly, Shanghai, China, evenings from 6:00-8:50 PM. The When Dr. Bournoutian was Many of the churches, includ- ing their names, from Davidian to is another location where Arme- course focused primarily on the asked about what he felt was differ- ing Holy Etchmiadzin, the head- simply David. In addition, Arme- nians have settled. In the past, Diaspora, that began with the fall ent about teaching in Fresno from quarters of the Armenian Church, nian gravestones began to be writ- there have been a number of build- of the Arshakuni Kingdom, the first other places he answered by stat- show the artistic influence of ten in English, instead of Arme- ings owned by Armenian people, partition of Armenia in the fourth ing, “The Armenian Center, the Armenia’s neighbors. Over the nian. however due to countless renova- century, and continued through the director, and the staff of the univer- years, due to war and hardships, The Armenian Sports Club and tions and advances, the city of political upheavals of the twentieth sity was extremely friendly.” This Etchmiadzin had been neglected the Armenian College in India are Shanghai has changed and many of century, and up to the present day. is interesting because Fresno State and when it was renovated and re- still open and active today. Stu- these buildings are no longer in When asked about his class and is one of only a few other programs decorated in the seventeenth cen- dents from Lebanon, Cyprus, Ar- existence. students at Fresno State, Dr. that has a strong Armenian Studies tury, the Persian influence was very menia, Iran, and other countries There once was a large and beau- Bournoutian stated, “I would rate undergraduate program. Dr. strong. travel to study at the Armenian tiful Armenian church in Jakarta, my students as very good.” He was Bournoutian enjoyed his stay in From 1600-1800 many Arme- College and Philanthropic Acad- Indonesia and a smaller one in impressed with how well his stu- Fresno and in particular he loved nian churches were constructed in emy, whose curriculum is based on Surabaya. Unfortunately, the gov- dents did on their midterm, “Sev- the fruits and the trees blooming all a number of South Asian cities, the British educational system. ernment purchased the Jakarta eral students in particular received over the Valley. When asked if he such as Delhi, Bombay (Mumbai), Bombay’s Armenian commu- church and demolished it, donating an A on the midterm.” Dr. would return to Fresno to teach Madras (Chennai), and Calcutta nity only has twelve to fourteen the money to the Armenians. Cur- Bournoutian believes in research another course his answer was a (Kolkata). Holy Nazaret church in Armenians, most of who intermar- rently, there are about twenty Ar- and seminars for students, over definite yes. Kolkata is the oldest church in In- ried with the British or Indians. menians left in Indonesia. memorization. On behalf of the students taking dia, and while it does not look like There is a commercial building in Armenians have migrated to Each student in the class chose a his class at Fresno State, we thank a traditional Armenian church, the Bombay, called Ararat, and the many different areas of the world topic on the Diaspora or the Geno- Dr. Bournoutian for all of his hard dome is of an Armenian style. money collected from rents is do- and whether the Armenians relo- cide and wrote a research paper. work and dedication. Calcutta had many Armenians who nated to the Armenian Church. cated for economic, political, or settled in the area, creating the larg- In Bangladesh, there is a beauti- family reasons, they managed to Armenians built churches every- and due to their strong bond, they est Armenian community in India, ful church built with three large maintain a strong relationship with where they went, staying true to have maintained their unique iden- with about 4-5,000 Armenians hav- church bells. In the nineteenth and their faith. Although they were far their roots. The Armenian people tity over time. ing lived there at one time. Today, early twentieth centuries the city away from their Motherland, the deeply cherish their Christian faith 6 Hye Sharzhoom May 2009 CineCulture Feature Film on Armenian Genocide well as historical accounts from sur- dered by the government of the vivors, perpetrators, and eyewit- Young Turks from 1915 to 1923, MARISSA KALASHIAN nesses. Experts in the field like instead claiming that it was a civil STAFF WRITER Samantha Power, Taner Akçam, war and that both sides suffered. Peter Balakian, Vahakn Dadrian, Although the majority of Turks Every year as April approaches, Ara Sarafian, and others appear in believe the official government Armenians are increasingly re- this film to explain the historical, story that the Genocide did not minded of the Armenian Genocide, political, and social aspects of the occur, there are those who recog- “the forgotten genocide,” which genocide. Celebrities also lend nize it, as the film also shows. One commenced on April 24, 1915 with themselves to the production by man recounts how his grandfather the massacres of Armenian reli- narrating the film and giving voice told him stories of the killings. For gious, political, and intellectual to the many personal historical ac- some, it is too difficult to accept leaders in Constantinople. In counts from people living at the that their relatives participated in Fresno, where there is a consider- time of the Genocide. such atrocities.

Mugrdechian able Armenian population, the The documentary provides view- As a follow-up to this film, Pro- Genocide issue is constantly alive, Der ers with a history of Armenians in fessor Barlow Der Mugrdechian and Armenians take the opportu- their homeland from the rise of the invited the viewers to respond to nity in April to remind the rest of Barlow Ottoman Empire up to present-day the film and opened the floor to the world of the first Genocide of Turkey. The complex aftermath of questions. A thoughtful discussion the twentieth century. Photo: the Genocide is analyzed, includ- ensued in which audience mem- On the evening of Friday, March Flowers are placed at the base of the Martyr’s Monument at the ing the reasons behind Turkey’s bers inquired about several issues 6, Fresno State students and local conclusion of the April 24 Commemorative Ceremonies. ongoing denial of the Genocide. including the religious aspects of community members gathered on present films that promote diver- lively and interesting discussion. Described by one scholar as a “fab- the Genocide, the limited instances campus to view the documentary, sity through cultural themes, fol- Written and directed by docu- ricated national memory,” the film of Armenian resistance, and the The Armenian Genocide. The lowed up by a post-film discussion mentary filmmaker Andrew captures, through candid interviews, modern Turkish government’s con- CineCulture film series is a semes- led by professors of Fresno State. Goldberg, The Armenian Genocide the belief widely-held by many tinued denial of the Genocide. ter-long program organized by Pro- After The Armenian Genocide, Pro- first aired on PBS in 2006. The modern Turkish citizens that the After the film and discussion fessor Mary Husain and the Mass fessor Barlow Der Mugrdechian, sixty-minute film presents valuable Genocide never happened. In these had concluded, CineCulture pro- Communication and Journalism Coordinator of the Armenian Stud- information about the Genocide interviews, a number of Turks dis- vided a questionnaire for viewers Department at Fresno State. The ies Program, solicited questions including interviews with world- pute the claim that 1.5 million Ar- to complete to share their responses objective of CineCulture is to from the audience and prompted a renowned genocide scholars, as menians were systematically mur- to the film.

HYE SHARZHOOM, FROM PAGE 1 of the paper, he responded with patiently awaited the arrival of Hye world or that it is the longest con- University, and as a training ground pride. “Hye Sharzhoom gave voice Sharzhoom to stay connected with tinuously published Armenian stu- for our students in the experience low Armenians, take Armenian to Armenian youth like no other Fresno and the Armenian Studies dent publication anywhere at any of news making and reporting. classes, and start a successful pro- institution I’ve ever been part of. Program, while others The Hye Sharzhoom is cur- Although Prof. Kouymjian was re- looked forward to learn- rently a cherished part of the Ar- sponsible for getting the newspaper ing something new menian Studies Program at Fresno off the ground, he gave students the about the Armenian cul- State. The newspaper was a defi- freedom to take ownership of the ture and people.” nite success in bringing the Ar- editorial content. Hye Sharzhoom For Arakel Arisian, menian students together on cam- helped put Fresno State on the map involvement with Hye pus, and has far exceeded the in the Armenian Diaspora.” Sharzhoom began when initial expectations. This widely Because of Dr. Kouymjian’s ef- he was a freshman and read Armenian newspaper is forts, many students who worked joined the staff as a unique and very special. Thanks on the newspaper have benefited writer. “Writing for Hye to the editors, staff writers, and from it — whether from writing, Sharzhoom had a pro- advisors from throughout the

Vaughn-Dotta editing, or taking photos. Dr. found impact on my col- years, we have managed to edu- Kouymjian was the advisor for the lege experience,” said Arakel Arisian cate the public about our trea-

Randy paper for the first six years, and Arisian, “Not only did I Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian sured culture. Most importantly,

Photo: then was joined by Prof. Barlow improve my writing skills and learn time. Though all of this is even truer this paper has allowed Fresno State Dr. Dickran Kouymjian Der Mugrdechian, who has been the process behind creating a news- today after thirty years, still the students to preserve and remember the advisor of the Hye Sharzhoom paper, but I also was able to better most important functions of the our beautiful Armenian roots. For gram. In order to achieve this goal, until today. analyze current events and issues newspaper are its outreach to the these reasons, we today celebrate Dr. Kouymjian decided to petition Many editors and writers have affecting the Armenians.” Arisian community, covering the dynamic the 30th anniversary of Hye the Student Senate to request per- taken a lot away from being a part says that the newspaper creates activities of the Program and the Sharzhoom. mission to start an Armenian news- of the Hye Sharzhoom team. Edi- learning opportunities for students, paper. At the same time, African- tors such as Mark Malkasian (1979- and that “Hye Sharzhoom strength- American and Hispanic students 1980), Bill Erysian (1979-1980), ens the connection between the already had student supplements. Arakel Arisian (1998), and Zhanna Armenian Studies Program and the Thanks to Dr. Kouymjian, Hye Bagdasarov (2005-2007) have put Armenian community throughout Sharzhoom was first published in the world.” April 1979. I contacted Dr. Thanks to these devoted Fresno Kouymjian to ask him some ques- State students, the newspaper has tions regarding the paper. “I chose remained strong throughout the the paper’s name, Hye Sharzhoom, years. The existence of Hye inspired by an important militant Sharzhoom has allowed the com- newspaper started in Paris in 1975 munity to stay involved with events call Hay Baikar, Armenian organized by the Armenian Stud- Struggle,” stated Kouymjian, “At ies Program at Fresno State. first we translated Hye Sharzhoom Hye Sharzhoom has made such by Armenian Movement, but after

Vaughn-Dotta a profound difference for the Ar- some kidding about ‘what kind of menian students at Fresno State,

movement,’ I changed it to Arme- Randy and the Armenian community in nian Action. From the beginning I general. Although the amount of Young Saroyan: Follow and Other Writings

wanted those involved in the paper Photo: effort necessary for the production Price per copy: $21 and those who eventually would Zhanna Bagdasarov of the paper is enormous for the read the paper to feel engaged in editors, production staff, and the (includes tax and postage in the United States) Armenian life not only locally, but great effort into both maintaining advisors, the work is worth all of also internationally.” the level of the paper and enhanc- the effort. At one time, the circula- Name: Hye Sharzhoom quickly became ing reader interest. tion reached 8,000 copies, which is a success, with journalism students Zhanna Bagdasarov began con- far above the standard campus Address: aiding in writing articles. In the tributing to the publication during newspaper. The paper is being dis- first academic year of production, her first semester of her freshman tributed to more than 20 countries, City: State: Zip: most students in Armenian Studies year, but it wasn’t until she became including Armenia, and countries courses and those involved in the the editor that she realized how in the Middle East, and Europe. Number of copies ordered: Total: Armenian Students Organization many people enjoy reading it and When asked about the evolu- Orders should be sent to: were contributing to the paper. take pride in its existence. “Letters tion of the paper, Dr. Kouymjian The Press Mark Malkasian and Mark Najarian from grateful readers often filled said, “Years ago I used to boast were the first editors of the Hye my email inbox commenting on the that Hye Sharzhoom was the only California State University, Fresno Sharzhoom. When I asked Mr. high caliber of the publication,” she regularly published Armenian uni- Fresno CA 93740-8024 Malkasian about the significance said, “Many claimed that they im- versity student newspaper in the or go to the webpage-www.press.csufresno.edu May 2009 Hye Sharzhoom 7 ASP 21st Anniversary Banquet Honors HS Staff parture of Dr. Kouymjian,” said generations of students have con- Dean Samiian. “It is so wonderful tributed their efforts in making the BANQUET, FROM PAGE 1 to see the accomplishments this newspaper, Hye Sharzhoom, into year, especially because it ensures an international phenomenon, Keith Simmons, and American the success of the Program into the reaching a readership of more than University of Armenia Vice-Presi- future. I have to tell you, that this seven thousand throughout the dent, Bruce Janigian. event, the Armenian Studies Ban- world. Many guests from the commu- quet, is one of my favorite events, Prof. Der Mugrdechian intro- nity joined students, faculty, and because of the community that you duced Dr. Bill Erysian, one of the administrators in celebrating the all bring to the university. And is founders and first editors of Hye thirtieth anniversary of Hye such a perfect example, that at ev- Sharzhoom, to speak about how the Sharzhoom, the Armenian student ery table, there are all of these won- newspaper began and what was newspaper on campus. Former and derful stories that go on during din- behind its growth. (Dr. Erysian’s current editors and staff were in- ner, and every one of you brings full remarks are found at the end of vited to the Banquet and many your history, your diversity, your this article.) took the opportunity to attend and perspective and that is so enriching Prof. Der Mugrdechian invited catch up with former colleagues. for us. And that is what makes our Dr. Welty to bestow certificates on Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Program so successful.” those staff members of Hye Director of the Armenian Studies Dr. Samiian continued, “So I Sharzhoom in attendance. Editors, Program, formally welcomed all Photo: Joseph Vasquez too, I want to thank you for the staff members, photographers, from to the Banquet and invited Dr. Dr. John Welty, center, with Hye Sharzhoom editors and staff. investment that you have made in all eras of the paper stepped for- Welty to give his opening remarks. our Program and I can tell you that ward to receive recognition for their “Thank you to all of you for not intellectual quality that the Program menian Studies Program will be we have the strongest undergradu- accomplishments. only being here this evening, but brings to our campus enriches our one of those Programs that we will ate Armenian Studies Program na- Prof. Der Mugrdechian also rec- thank you for the incredible sup- entire university environment.” highlight and honor, and indeed I tionally, and I am so proud of ev- ognized the many student recipi- port that you have provided for the Dr. Welty continued, “Tonight I look forward to it.” ents of scholarships and grants that Armenian Studies Program over feel an enormous sense of gratitude Prof. Der Mugrdechian then in- have been established at the uni- the years,” said Dr. Welty, “We to all of you, for what you have done troduced Dr. Vida Samiian, Dean versity through the generosity of are, as Barlow mentioned, in a dif- to build a Program that will live on of the College of Arts and Humani- the Armenian community. ficult time and we have some diffi- forever. We are just a little over a ties, and thanked her for her sup- Ambassador John Ordway, cult decisions ahead of us, but I can year from beginning our centennial port as Dean. Keith Simmons, and Bruce Janigian assure you that as a result of the celebration at Fresno State, in April “Thank you Barlow. Barlow is then engaged in a panel discussion sacrifices that you have made over of 2010, marking the 100th anniver- giving me credit for what he has on “United States Foreign Policy the years, that the Armenian Stud- sary of the then Fresno Normal done. He has really done an amaz- in Armenia and the Caucasus.” Each ies Program is strong and is a Pro- School that was officially started ing job carrying Armenian Studies spoke on their experience while in gram that has a bright future… The through legislative act… The Ar- forward, seamlessly, from the de- Armenia. Ambassador Ordway in particular had enjoyed his tenure in SAS FROM PAGE 1 Vahram Shemmassian of Califor- tempt: Rearticulation of (National) Armenia and spoke about how he nia State University, Northridge, Belonging and the Inscription of United States and Canada. The Sec- viewed Armenia’s future develop- gave a paper on “The Rescue of Aftermath Experience in French retariat of SAS is based at the Ar- ment and relations with the United Captive Genocide Survivors, 1919- Armenian Literature Between the menian Studies Program at Fresno Photo: Joseph Vasquez States. Simmons discussed the op- 1921.” Wars.” State. Dean Vida Samiian portunities for economic develop- Other panels included “Medieval Congratulatory letters to the The aims of the Society for Ar- erything that our faculty has done, ment in Armenia. Janigian spoke Literature and the Arts,” Medieval SAS were received from Dr. Radik menian Studies are to promote the our students who are our hope for about the success of the American History and Culture,” “Research- Martirosyan, President of the Ar- study of Armenian culture and so- the future, and everything that each University of Armenia (AUA), and ing the Contemporary Armenian menian Academy of Sciences; ciety, including history, language, of you are doing in supporting us, how AUA is making an important Diaspora: Consolidating the Past, Academician Dr. Vladimir literature, and social, political, and and in supporting our community, contribution to the intellectual de- Situating the Future,” “ Armenian Barkhudaryan; Davit Sargsyan, economic questions; to facilitate and our campus. Thank you.” velopment of the Republic of Ar- History as Connected History,” Director of the National Library of the exchange of scholarly infor- Thirty years ago in April 1979, menia. “Economy, Society, and Culture of Armenia; Dr. Virgina Aksan, Presi- mation pertaining to Armenian a small group of students, under the The 21st Annual Banquet was a Early Modern East Central Europe dent of the Middle East Studies studies around the world; and to direction of Dr. Dickran wonderful event that brought to- (14th-19th centuries),” “Between Association; Hrachia Tamrazyan, sponsor panels and conferences on Kouymjian, director of the Arme- gether the university with the com- Perversion and Representation: Director of the Matenadaran; Wil- Armenian studies at national con- nian Studies Program, started a munity. It has become an annual Sexual Allegories in Armenian Lit- liam Taubman, President of the ventions of organizations such as newspaper, that thirty years later tradition that should continue long erature,” “Contemporary Armenia,” American Association for the Ad- the Middle East Studies Associa- has become an institution. Several into the future. tion, the American Historical As- “Discourse and Violence: Revisit- vancement of Slavic Studies; and sociation, and the American Asso- ing the Adana Massacres of 1909,” Dr. Valentina Calzolari, President ciation for the Advancement of “Church Politics and Identity,” and of the International Association of ASO Spring Semester Activities Slavic Studies. “Armenians, World War II, and Armenian Studies. Fresno State Armenian Studies Repatriation.” A full listing of con- The Society for Armenian Stud- HAGOP OHANESSIAN ference participants and individual ies was founded in 1974 in Boston Program Director Barlow Der STAFF WRITER Mugrdechian participated in a papers can be found on the SAS by five scholars: Richard website at http:// Hovannisian (UCLA), Avedis panel on “The State of Armenian As the Spring semester is com- armenianstudies.csufresno.edu/sas/ Sanjian (UCLA), Nina Garsoian Studies Chairs and Programs in the ing to an end, the Armenian Stu- SAS/35th Anniversary (Columbia University), Robert United States,” that brought twelve dents Organization, together with Program.htm Thomson (Harvard, then Oxford), chair holders and program direc- the Armenian Studies Program has A gala banquet held at the and Dickran Kouymjian (AUB, tors together to discuss their Pro- continued to cosponsor several Taghlyan Center in Hollywood con- then Fresno State). Since its incep- grams. Der Mugrdechian reported events. This semester we have had cluded the conference. Dr. Rubina tion, the Society has grown to over on the Armenian Studies Program the privilege to hear three public Peroomian was the mistress of cer- 250 members, with scholars in all at Fresno State and presented an lectures by Dr. George overview of its activities. emonies for the program that fea- the major countries of the world Bournoutian, who was appointed ASO Vice-President Hagop Dr. Richard Hovannisian, AEF tured remarks from several guests represented. as the seventh Henry Khanzadian Ohanessian at the April 24th Professor of Modern Armenian as well as musical entertainment by Fresno State Professor Dickran Kazan Visiting Professor of Arme- commemorative event. History and President of the Soci- Salbi Mailyan. The Honorable Kouymjian (Berberian Chair of nian Studies for the Spring 2009 Russia, and Southeast Asia, during ety for Armenian Studies opened Grigor Hovhannissian, Consul Gen- Armenian Studies, Emeritus) was semester. He lectured on the Arme- the period 1600-1800. Students the conference with his welcom- eral of the Republic of Armenian President of SAS in 1985-1986 nian church and communities in from the ASO as well as members ing remarks on Thursday, March was present to give his congratula- and 1993-1994, while Professor three areas of the world: Persia, of the community attended these 26. Hundreds of students and com- tions, as did Haig Der Manuelian, Barlow Der Mugrdechian was lectures. munity members attended the vari- and Dr. Theo van Lint representing President (2001-2004). On Wednesday March 11, the ous sessions during the three day the International Association of The Armenian Studies Program ASO invited members to a “Bowl- conference. Armenian Studies. Dr. Joseph at Fresno State, along with several ing Night” in the Student Union on More than sixty scholars were Kéchichian, editor of the Journal of other Armenian Studies Programs campus. It was a great evening, as invited to participate in the confer- the Society for Armenian Studies, in the United State, co-sponsored members of the club showed off ence, presenting papers in a wide awarded the prize for the best dis- the Conference, along with the their bowling skills and enjoyed variety of disciplines. One panel sertation in Armenian Studies for Society for Armenian Studies. each other’s company over soft on “New Perspectives on the Ar- 2006-2008 to Sebouh Aslanian for Those interested in learning drinks and pizza. menian Genocide,” brought to- his work “From the Indian Ocean to more about the Society or in apply- During the months of March gether scholars who presented their the Mediterranean: Circulation and ing for membership may go to the and April, the ASO and the ASP findings based on new research. the Global Trade Network of Arme- web page for the Society for Arme- worked to organize the 94th Com- Taner Akçam of Clark University nian Merchants from New Julfa, nian Studies at http:// ASO President Stepan memoration of the Armenian Geno- gave a paper on “Ottoman Docu- Isfahan, 1605-1747.” Honorable armenianstudies.csufresno.edu/ Kyutunyan at the April 24th cide, which took place on campus ments and Genocidal Intent of the mention went to Talar Chahinian sas/index.htm. commemorative event. April 24, in the Free Speech Area. Union and Progress Party,” while for her dissertation “The Paris At- 8 Hye Sharzhoom May 2009 APRIL 24, FROM PAGE 1

Armenia, was placed in front of the speaker’s platform. With the sound of the duduk playing in the back- ground, people gathered around the Free Speech area at noon. This year the ASO and the Ar- menian Studies Program invited the Arax Armenian dancers of Fresno to perform two dances dedi- cated to the genocide, “Moush,”

and “Adana.” The dance ensemble Mugrdechian consisting of Arevik Stepanyan,

Der Flora Mirijanian, Ani Mirijanian, Faten Myaznih, Michael Rettig, Kevork Gevorkian, and leader Barlow Zaroohi Der Mugrdechian, wore traditional Armenian costumes. Photo: L. to R.: Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Hagop Ohanessian, Stepan Some of the students and guests on April 24. They performed elegantly and ev- Kyutunyan, Councilman Borgeas, and Yeghig Keshishian. ery member in the audience ap- perpetrated by Turkish generals. Darfur today. Following the movie, ADVOCACY, FROM PAGE 1 Photo: ASP Archive plauded for their fantastic perfor- At the conclusion of the com- there was a march and a candle grassroots lobbying and its impor- nian Genocide recognized and she mance. memoration, those in attendance light vigil to the Martyrs Monu- tance in the political process. emphasized that political involve- Students from the Keyan Ar- placed flowers at the base of the ment in the Free Speech area. Keshishian also presented some ment was important and that stu- menian Community School of Martyrs Monument. Fresno State’s Collegian cov- of the top issues for Armenian lob- dents should consider working as Fresno recited poetry in Armenian At 7:30PM on Thursday, April ered the Genocide commemora- byists in Washington D.C.: U.S. volunteers or as interns in political that had themes of Armenian cul- 23, the ASO and the Armenian Stud- tive events with a full front-page assistance to Armenia, Section 907 offices, focusing on the broad local ture and identity. ies Program invited students and cover in the Monday, April 27, of the Freedom Support Act, elimi- issues. At the conclusion of the dis- Armenian Studies Program Di- members of the community to a issue of the newspaper. See the nation of blockades and regional cussion she presented the Arme- rector Barlow Der Mugrdechian screening of the movie “Scream- article at cooperation and energy security nian Students Organization with a presented a historical overview of ers.” In the film, director Carla http:collegian.csufresno.edu/ for Armenia, U.S. assistance to Certificate of Recognition for “cul- the Genocide, while Hagop Garapedian follows the rock band 2009/04/27/a-day-of-remem- Karabagh, Turkey and Article 301, tivating a spirit of appreciation to- Ohanessian, Vice-President of the “System of a Down” as they tour brance/. the Karabagh peace process, and ward Armenian history, culture, and ASO recounted two survivor testi- Europe and the U.S., pointing out The ASO thanks everyone for the Armenian Genocide. the Armenian language.” monies about the terrible events the horrors of modern genocide that their support in the Commemora- The Armenian Students Orga- The delegation then visited the began with the Armenians in the tion of the 94th Anniversary of the nization organized the workshop offices of United States Senator Hall and a meeting with Fresno Ottoman Empire in 1915, up though Armenian Genocide. as part of the activities associated Barbara Boxer in the Fresno Fed- City Councilman Andreas with Armenian Genocide Com- eral Courthouse. Tom Bohigian, Borgeas, newly elected to the Sec- memoration week at Fresno State. State Director, Ameen Khan, Di- ond Council District of Fresno. Following the workshop, ASO rector of Central and Eastern Cali- Councilman Borgeas discussed President Stepan Kyutunyan and fornia, and intern Marissa Kalashian with the group some plans for up- Vice President Hagop Ohanessian, greeted the Fresno State group. As coming activities in Fresno, that together with ASO Advisor Barlow State Director, Bohigian is respon- involve Armenians. On June 5 and Der Mugrdechian and Keshishian, sible for supervising Boxer’s Cali- 6 the City is coordinating HyeFest, paid a visit to offices of three poli- fornia operations and has worked a festival of Armenian culture in ticians: Fresno County Supervisor for Senator Boxer since 1993. A downtown Fresno. Efforts are also Debbie Poochigian, the office of lifelong resident of Fresno, Bohigian underway to increase ties with the United States Senator Barbara holds a degree in Journalism from Republic of Armenia through a Boxer, and Fresno City Council- Fresno State. variety of initiatives. man Andreas Borgeas. A productive conversation re- Councilman Borgeas is active Mugrdechian

Debbie Poochigian is a Fresno volved around how politics were in supporting Armenian efforts to Der County Supervisor for District practiced in the nation’s capital. recognize the Armenian Genocide

Five, located in eastern Fresno Senator Boxer has been at the fore- and in general issues of interest to Barlow County. She is married to former front of efforts to pass a Genocide Armenians. He presented students

State Senator Chuck Poochigian resolution in the United States Sen- with a Letter of Commendation for Photo: and her father was former Fresno ate. Bohigian emphasized that Boxer their “…commitment and desire Students of the Keyan Armenian School on April 24. County Supervisor Deran Koligian. will continue to support the issue to strengthen political outreach and Poochigian graduated from Fresno and call on the President to fulfill efforts of the Armenian commu- State where she received her his campaign pledge to support af- nity in cultivating relations with Thank You Donors bachelor’s degree and two teach- firmation of the Armenian Geno- elected officials…” ing credentials. cide. Bohigian also emphasized that The workshop and visits to po- Richard G. Barberian, PD Burlingame Poochigian discussed a variety student involvement in the political litical offices provided students In memory of Penny Markarian of issues dealing with her work in process was key to making changes with an inside view of politics and Karl DeKlotz Fresno the County. She has been an active in the political process. the importance of participation in In memory of Alex Costis voice in efforts to have the Arme- The final visit was to Fresno City the political process.. Dian Karabian Shaver Lake Mary Karegian Sommese Chicago, IL In memory Seta (Karegian) Sosinski HYE SHARZHOOM Anchalee and Marcus Marootian Fresno NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Jackie Matosian San Marino Ani Naljian Upper Saddle River, NJ Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the Mr. and Mrs. Leo Pilibosian Fresno world. Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts Eunice Rustigian Fresno with donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance John and Linda Shahbazian Parlier because of increased mailing costs. Dr. Randy and Kathy Shahbazian Fresno Martin Tourigian Drexel Hill, PA Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a donation of: Donation to Armenian Studies Endowment Fund $ Dianne and Arnold Gazarian Name: In memory of Robert Kooyumjian Address: City: State: Zip: Dianne and Arnold Gazarian In memory of Ruth Aivazian Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Thank You Annual Fund Donors Armenian Studies Program Sponsor Supporters California State University, Fresno National Association for Ara Dostourian 5245 N Backer Ave M/S PB 4 Armenian Studies and Sylva Etian Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Research, Inc. (NAASR) Richelle Noroyan