CRANSTON, R.I.—Throughout his 41 years in education, Haig Varadian never wasted an opportunity to assist a student.
It was only fitting that Cranston High School East dedicate its newly constructed science wing to the “Chips” of the Armenian community, as he was so aptly known.
Family and friends turned out for a dedication recently, during which an appropriate plaque was placed at the site to memorialize and honor the man who brought so much attention and leadership to the schoolchildren of Cranston.
“Dad dedicated his life to family, education, sports, and community service,” said his daughter Diana Varadian. “He never ran for political office nor did he come from any financial means, but in his own modest and quiet way, he touched the lives of many and left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten. Many of his former students are thankful for the guidance they received from my father.”
Two years before his death, Haig Varadian was inducted into the Rhode Island Interscholastic League High School Hall of Fame.
Referred to by many as “the father of Rhode Island wrestling,” he devoted more than 50 years to the sport in addition to his four decades on the Council of the New England Secondary Schools Principals’ Association, the last 25 as its executive director.
In that supreme role, he governed all New England high school athletic tournaments as well as regional drama festivals, programs on drug prevention, computer leagues, and other regional high school activities through 2004.
At one time, he helped initiate a special program through the Providence Rotary Club for handicapped children to attend summer camp.
Whether it was academics or athletics, Varadian never relented in his capacity to promote a better environment for its constituents. The word “student-athlete” placed priorities where they should stand, especially with his own family.
A graduate of Cranston High School in 1944, Varadian was an All-State wrestler for two years and also participated in track. He was inducted into the U.S. Army, serving as a staff sergeant in the Third Division Combat Infantry Unit during World War II.
He was the recipient of the Combat Infantryman’s Medal with two battle stars and other awards for valor, including the Bronze Star.
While at Brown University, graduating in 1950, Varadian participated on its wrestling team. He coached the sport from 1950-61 at Cranston High School, winning many state titles. He was named Rhode Island Wrestling Coach of the Year five times, producing a host of state and New England champions, many of whom distinguished themselves on higher levels.
He was chosen by the U.S. Olympics Wrestling Committee as an alternate official for the 1960 Olympic Games held in Japan.
His professional career in the Cranston School System found him as a secondary school principal at Cranston High School East and West, and as principal of Park View Junior High School until his retirement in 1990. The track at Park View is also named in his behalf.
In 1999, Varadian was inducted into the prestigious Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame.
As a former member and athlete of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), Varadian is credited with establishing their Governing Body which oversees the Olympic Games each Labor Day weekend. The organization honored him with an Olympic King Award and named him an honorary member of the local Providence AYF “Varantian” Chapter.
“As a youth, Haig served his country and never stopped,” said Richard Magarian, the assistant executive director of the Rhode Island Interscholastic League. “He served youth in his capacity as a teacher, coach, and administrator. All were done with truth and honor.”
The science wing bears a bronze plaque with Varadian’s photo. Underneath the photo lies the inscription: “Educating the youth to meet the challenges of the future and become the leaders of tomorrow.” A concise biographical sketch of the man is also included.
“If Dad knew this dedication was taking place, he would have been humbled by it for sure,” said daughter Diana. “But he would have approved. My only wish is that students take the time to read the plaque and become inspired to follow their dreams, contribute to society, and make the world a better place. Dad’s life was not about recognition. It was about the self-rewarding contributions he made.”
The Honorable Judge Haiganoush Bedrosian, who was also Varadian’s student, characterized the man’s Armenian heritage at the ceremony and reminisced about the close relationships their families shared.
She credits Haig’s personal attention of advising and guiding her toward Brown University, ultimately leading to law school. Presently, Judge Bedrosian is considered a highly respected judge of the Rhode Island Family Court.
Michael Traficante, the school committee chairman and former Cranston mayor, delighted guests with personal anecdotes about his long-time friend and mentor. Both go back to their wrestling days at Cranston High School. “Coach Varadian led us to many state and New England titles,” Traficante recalled.
Among those steeped in pride by the tribute were Varadian’s wife Anahid, son Paul, and another daughter Christine, along with grandchildren Sonig and Nevart Varadian, and Erik, Andre, Aleksander, and Kristian Johnsen.
“There aren’t too many Armenians who have a public building named after them,” said his wife. “It memorializes my husband in the best possible way he could have imagined.”
Tom Vartabedian
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Hike was a giant in RI wrestling, and I’m proud to have wrestled under his tutelage. The personal extras he provided to me and my brothers, and all “his boys” made all the difference. His impact on me, and many hundreds – even thousands – of others, was immeasureable; he’ll be missed personally and professionally!
I first met Haig as a 7th grade student at Hugh B Bain. He was a mentor
to me & helped me succeed through those early years.
When I think of him, I see a very outgoing, confident person. On my all time list of men that I respected.
John Del Bonis
CHSE 1961
I was on the coaches wrestling team in 58-59 at Cranston HS.. We won the RI Championship that year. Big assembly got letters and jackets.. Never forgot him..Remember going to his house for a plate of cookies and milk served by Mrs Veradian..Thanks RAYMOND SHALVEY CHS 1960