Walls That Talk
The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center starts new conversations on identity and heritage
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September 10, 2007
Young Professionals of Northern California Pay Tribute to Founder Ashken Mouradian
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Asken Mouradian with past and present members of the AGBU Young Professionals of Northern California (YPNC) at a special tribute on September 9, 2007 to honor Mouradian's tireless work to establish a Bay Area YP Group. -
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Ashken Mouradian (left) with Event Chairwoman Kim Bardakian.
Oakland, CA - On September 9, 2007, over 25 past and present Board Members of the AGBU Young Professionals of Northern California (YPNC) gathered at the home of Alison Ekizian to pay tribute to local AGBU Chapter Chairwoman Ashken Mouradian who founded YPNC in 1998 and is now moving with husband Anto to Southern California.
In the late 1990s, Ashken Mouradian had the vision and foresight to assemble a dynamic group of young Armenian professionals in the San Francisco Bay area to host a variety of educational, cultural, and recreational events under the auspices of AGBU.
"It was quite a sight to see so many past and present YP Board Members in one room," commented Event Chairwoman Kim Bardakian the day of the tribute. "Ashken has touched so many of our lives--not only as our leader, but as our friend. She will truly be missed but her legacy in Northern California will never be forgotten."
Ashken's guidance and encouragement have been a major reason for the success of the group which continues to flourish as it approaches its 10th anniversary. Part of AGBU's global network of YP Groups around the world, YPNC is one of its oldest groups, as well as the only one to host a signature benefit event (Winter Gala Getaway Weekend) which annually attracts hundreds of Armenians across the nation. Throughout the years, YPNC has raised over $46,000 for worthwhile AGBU programs locally and in Armenia.
On behalf of AGBU President Berge Setrakian and AGBU Central Board of Directors, a beautiful engraved crystal ornament was presented to Ashken for her years of dedication to the local Chapter, along with flowers and gifts from attendees. Visibly humbled, Ashken spoke to everyone present about her initial goal of the group and how it has far exceeded her expectations. She also encouraged the past and present members to always remain loyal to AGBU, as well as the local Armenian and American San Francisco Bay Area community.
AGBU YPNC is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Armenian heritage and identity through educational, cultural, and humanitarian programs. For more information on YPNC, email agbuypnc@hotmail.com or visit www.agbuypnc.org.
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