WASHINGTON–D.C.–To commemorate Women’s History Month–US Representative Adam Schiff announced that he has named Sonia Bedrossian Peltekian of Burbank–California as one of the Women of the Year for California’s 29th District. Peltekian was honored at a "Women of the Year" luncheon hosted by Rep. Schiff on Friday–March 21.
"Over the years–Sonia has been an outspoken advocate for the Armenian-American community and has served the needs of refugees everywhere," Rep. Schiff said. "The entire community joins me in thanking Sonia for her continued efforts to make the 29th Congressional District a more vibrant and enjoyable place in which to live and her devotion to those in need."
Born in Jerusalem–Peltekian attended St. Joseph High School–graduating as valedictorian–and Terra Santa Girls’ College where she majored in business administration and minored in music teaching and conducting. Sonia worked in Jerusalem as a music teacher at Terra Santa Boys College–a secretary at the United Nations Relief and Work Agency–and organist/choir director for Terra Santa Church.
In the 1970s–Peltekian immigrated to the United States–became a United States citizen–and married Barkev Peltekian. She and her husband have two children–Lara and Paul.
Peltekian volunteers for the United Armenia Fund–the American Red Cross and the Armenian Cultural Association. For nearly thirty years–she has been extremely active in the Armenian Relief Society–Western Region "Mayr" Chapter in Los Angeles–serving as President and Vice President.
In 1998–Sonia won the County of Los Angeles’ Outstanding Volunteer Award for her service to refugees living in Los Angeles County. In addition–she volunteers at various schools and community functions to speak about issues related to Armenian culture–women and religious holidays. Her command of four languages: English–Armenian–Arabic and French help to make her a much sought-after public speaker and volunteer.
