AEF holds Annual Scholarship Reception in Yerevan
YEREVAN — On Sept. 28, 2025, the Armenian Educational Foundation (AEF) held its annual Scholarship Reception at the Meridian Expo Center, bringing together more than 1,570 guests, including over 1,300 scholarship recipients and graduates, as well as AEF sponsors and supporters, to celebrate the organization’s continued investment in education across Armenia and Artsakh.
The event began with an interactive group activity, in which attendees collaborated to assemble a creative AEF photo puzzle, followed by a giant group Karno Kochari dance that brought together guests and students in a celebration of culture and community.
The formal program then commenced, featuring remarks from Armine Haroyan, executive director of AEF’s Armenia office; Serop Beylerian, president of AEF’s Board of Directors; and Seda Davidian, chair of the Scholarship Committee in Armenia.
In her remarks, Haroyan reflected on AEF’s legacy. “For 75 years, AEF has believed that education is the strongest tool for our country’s development. Through education, we don’t just change one student’s future — we help shape families, communities and ultimately our homeland.”
Beylerian thanked the sponsors and encouraged students to continue pursuing excellence, reminding them that “Education is the most powerful weapon that can change the world. The Armenian Educational Foundation gives you this unique opportunity — to change the world and achieve your dreams.”
The program featured a presentation on AEF’s ongoing initiatives, along with remarks by alumni Vazgen Muradyan, advisor to the Minister of Justice of Armenia, and Anna Sahakyan, deputy principal of the Anahit Tsitsikyan Music School, who shared the lasting impact of their AEF scholarships.
Musical performances were offered by AEF alumna Mariam Zohranyan and her ensemble, as well as by students of Anna Sahakyan, adding a creative touch to the celebration. A slideshow highlighted the contributions of AEF’s student volunteers, underscoring the organization’s spirit of service and community engagement.
In the final portion of the event, AEF graduate and sponsor Hamlet Khnkoyan, founder and CEO of Big Projects LLC, spoke as an alumnus and success story. He encouraged students to pursue their passions and, one day, pay it forward by becoming monthly donors themselves and supporting the next generation of students.
The reception concluded with a photo session uniting students and sponsors — a symbolic moment reflecting AEF’s commitment to connecting generations through education.
Founded in 1950, the Armenian Educational Foundation continues to expand its scholarship and school programs throughout Armenia and the diaspora. With each new academic year, AEF reaffirms its belief that education matters — both as a personal opportunity and a national responsibility. For more information, please visit www.aef.org.
