LITTLE ARMENIA—The Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School students returned to the classroom on Sept. 3 to two new turning points—the school’s 40th anniversary and a new principal, Nazo Apanian.
At a special ceremony, attended by the student body, school-affiliated entities, religious and community leaders, all speakers highlighted the important role Alex Pilibos has played in the education of Armenians in the United States and advancements it has achieved to become a unique academic and educational environment.
In his remarks, Principal Apanian highlighted the achievements and said he was honored and humbled to be appointed to lead the school and continue the successes it has registered in the past 40 years.
This summer, the Board of Regents of the Prelacy Armenian Schools appointed Apanian as principal after Dr. Viken Yacoubian announced that he would be ending his successful 16-year tenure at the school.
“It is an immense responsibility,” said Apanian who expressed confidence that the community and entities who have constantly supported the school would continue to be an integral part of life at Pilibos.
The ceremony began with prayers offered by St. Garabed Armenian Church pastor Rev. Viken Vassilian.
Student Council representatives Lory Tashdjian and Donna Abdo presented welcoming remarks in Armenian and English respectively.
Dean of Students Charles Lousararian highlighted the many achievements of the schools, as well as its contributions to the community. He enumerated the successes of graduates and expressed confidence that the school will continue its academic mission and will produce exemplary individuals and Armenians.
In his remarks, Education Committee chairman Sako Berberian recounted the successes of the school and attributed each principal and staff who have played an integral role in nurturing it into an outstanding educational institution. He also welcomed Apanian, saying that as a former teacher at the school he has now returned to apply his experience to and confront the challenges with a new vigor and commitment.
In his blessing, Western Prelate Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian commended the teachers, students and parents who have always been a strong pillar for the school and after welcoming the new principal, prayed for future successes.
