Berj and Ani Chekijian Host Reception for AMAA

BELMONT, Mass.—On Sat., Jan. 16, the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) held a reception graciously hosted by Berj and Ani Chekijian of Belmont. More than 50 guests gathered in fellowship and good spirits to view a video presentation and hear updates on the happenings and operations of the Khoren and Shooshanig Avedisian School in Yerevan.

AMAA Executive Director/CEO Zaven Khanjian began his presentation by placing the success of the school in context with the AMAA’s long history of moving education forward as one of its primary missions throughout the world.

The school’s benefactor, Edward Avedisian, and Armenia Tree Project (ATP) Executive Director Jeanmarie Papelian highlighted the numerous ways it benefits Armenia beyond offering a fine education. The school serves a major extracurricular, social, and community function for the deprived Malatia-Sepastia district of Yerevan, in addition to working with numerous partner organizations such as ATP.

Edward Avedisian talks about the Avedisian School in Yerevan

The original Avedisian School was founded in 1999 as a tuition-free kindergarten. In September 2014, the doors opened to the new Khoren and Shooshanig Avedisian School and Community Center complex, in the presence of Republic of Armenia President Serge Sarkisian and various leaders of the AMAA. It is the first LEED-certified school building in Armenia and the Caucasus. The complex includes a primary school in the Krikor and Beatrice Bilezikian Building; a kindergarten, middle school, and high school; athletic facilities, including a soccer field; and a community center.

The AMAA held the reception to highlight the importance of upholding the passionate spirit that resonates throughout the administration, faculty, and students of this fine institution. Various giving opportunities are available to support the school and to leave a lasting legacy that will benefit Armenian students for years to come.

For more information, visit www.amaa.org or call the AMAA at (201) 265-2607.