Educating a Generation

Volunteering makes me feel a small part of this huge puzzle called AGBU with so many productive people who are graciously impacting change.

Sevan Boghos-Deirbadrossian's passion for education and advancement in the Armenian community continues to set up all those who cross her path with knowledge, while upholding the Armenian heritage. While teaching at AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School, she also sits on a number of volunteer committees where she focuses on encouraging growth of youth, women and the arts.

Q: What is your role with AGBU? How do you think you are impacting change in others’ lives?

A: I am an Armenian language Arts teacher at AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School (MDS), a member of AGBU Hye Geen and a Board member of the Krikor Satamian Theater Group. Of course, these are not titles but rather roles that complete a big part of who I am as a person. By becoming a member of the AGBU MDS family for 15 years, I have learned and enjoyed how to make the journey of a student the most memorable experience. In Hye Geen, it is the idea that we empower women and help build a strong civil community. Pregnant women face many fears during this time in Armenia, especially after the war- there is a lot of uncertainty and questions about what the future holds. Who would think to have a child during this time? We are helping women feel empowered and feel knowledgeable and guided. The Satamian Theater has entertained many generations. First thing I did when I moved to Los Angeles 22 years ago was to attend a play at the Satamian Theater as an audience member. Later, I became a Board Member. Although I was not on stage, I felt as one with those performing. My son is 21 and he is now involved with the Satamian Theater, as well- talk about full circle.

Q: What is your current focus at AGBU and where do you see things headed in the next 1-2 years?

A: I am not the type to say I’m going to do this and I am going to do that- I am guided by this exciting life. Every time I volunteer or am involved, I like to back up and allow others to have the chance to work, as well. I am working on my masters in Armenian Studies and though things get so busy, I always find my way back to my committees. Volunteering makes me feel a small part of this huge puzzle called AGBU with so many productive people who are graciously impacting change.

Q: What are some of your long-term goals with AGBU?

A: For the school, I really hope that we will continue to educate our Armenian students and make sure that the Armenian program is relevant. I love seeing the student-based and group projects and would love to see more of this in the future. I also implement the Armenian Virtual College in the classroom, which has been a great tool to help me teach in a more technology-forward way.

Q: If you could describe AGBU as an organization in only 3 words, what would they be?

A: Valuable, productive and the future.

Q: How has your involvement with AGBU shaped who you are with family, friends, career, etc.?

A: The word AGBU comes to my mouth 10 times a day. AGBU connects me to my people in the homeland and has given me the opportunity to know more people and to be a part of a larger collective aiming towards the same goal. The organization has taught me how to work with everyone and deal with different adversities. My lifestyle is defined by the many functions that I do- that is just me. These roles may seem so simple, but definitely add value to my life. AGBU is a platform, a collective movement with valuable goals.

Q: What are you looking forward to personally and professionally in 2022?

A: The most important thing for me is earning my Masters degree, which I also feel like I owe to AGBU because of all the experiences and the people I have met along the way, which led me to this goal. I will be finishing this upcoming semester, which I am so excited about. There are people from all over the world in my class and this is the best thing that has ever happened to me because I am constantly connecting with others. I also love to write and now I am inspired to write so much more. Recently, one of my articles was published In Houshamadyan and it featured my family and our history. I love my job and I am happy with where I am, truly, I am just very proud of where I am. I would also love to see my children graduate in 2022- that is something I am really looking forward to, as well.

Q: What is one thing about AGBU that you wish people knew?

A: AGBU has given a lot and never taken.

Q: Two fun facts about you?

A: I like to travel, but I don’t get to do that enough. I love to gather people at home to cook and host for them, as well. I love to sing and dance, but again, I am so busy I don’t get to do that enough.

Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?

A: My proudest accomplishments are my children. They are a product of AGBU, they both graduated from AGBU. I am so proud of who they are.