GLENDALE—Mashdots College successfully completed its twenty-second academic year with the commencement exercises held on Sunday, June 22, at the Four-Square Holy Trinity Armenian Church in Glendale, California. The college welcomed a host of dignitaries, community and civic leaders, educators, benefactors, parents and friends who saluted the College’s 22nd anniversary.
Ani Bagdasaryan, Class of 2014, played the anthems of the United States of America and the Republic of Armenia on the piano.
Dr. Garbis Der Yeghiayan, President of the College, who served as Master of Ceremonies, introduced the members of the Board of Trustees and faculty. In his opening remarks Dr. Der Yeghiayan emphasized the important mission of the College and said, “We serve the Armenian community with vision, dedication and faith not only to preserve, but also to enhance and strengthen a very unique heritage, through the preparation of teachers, administrators, bilingual specialists and public servants”. Dr. Der Yeghiayan reported that the College’s achievements during its current academic year have surpassed even the most optimistic projections. He said, “The College pursued and ambitious commitment to provide educational opportunities and community services which improved individual lives, enriched our community and honored our national values. We are looking forward to the future with great anticipation and confidence”.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Varujan Gabuchian congratulated the students and invited the community to strongly support the mission of this unique Armenian institution of higher education.
The commencement Keynote speaker was Dalida Mardiros, a high-ranking U.S. civil servant, who addressed the students with an inspiring message. She commended the students for their accomplishments end encouraged them to continue striving to do their best. She shared with the graduating class three important life experiences: seize opportunities, have a mentor in life and focus on integrity.
Distinguished Judge Suren Ghazarian of Armenia expressed his profound gratitude to the College for its quality academic programs and its job placement success. “Mashdots College is the pride of our people”, he said.
Dr. Gabuchian joined Dr. Der Yeghiayan in awarding Bachelor of Arts degrees and certificates to 34 students. On behalf of the graduating class, Arpy Doctorian thanked the College and its dedicated faculty for their commitment to “excellence in Armenian higher education”.
Dr. Der Yeghiayan invoked a special prayer for the graduates and the 22nd commencement exercises of Mashdots College came to an end with a sense of pride and great satisfaction.
