The results of the 5th edition of the "Golden Seeds: Educational Awards for Respect and Gratitude" program—dedicated to the memory of knight of the "Combat Cross" 1st degree order Vahagn Tumasyan—were summarized at YSU Faculty of History.
The academic award is a joint initiative of the Faculty of History and HaySanta Charitable Foundation, implemented since 2021. The program aims to encourage students and postgraduate researchers of the Chair of Archaeology and Ethnography at YSU who demonstrate academic excellence, innovative thinking, and civic commitment.
The 2025 award recipients are Karolina Yeganyan, a third-year undergraduate student in the "Archaeology and Ethnography" program, and Emma Ghukasyan, a first-year master’s student in the "Archaeology and Anthropology" program. The award fund was shared between the two recipients.
In her words of gratitude, Karolina Yeganyan stated: "I place great importance on programs like this, as the support provided to students is a direct investment in the country’s future. This scholarship ensures financial stability, allowing me to focus more deeply on my studies and research. In the future, this knowledge and experience will serve the prosperity and development of our homeland. I believe this is one of the best ways to honor the memory of Vahagn Tumasyan and all our national heroes."
Award recipient Emma Ghukasyan emphasized: "My academic interests include issues related to refugees and forced displacement. Through fieldwork, I examine the integration process of refugees in local communities and the role of state institutions in addressing these challenges. For me, this academic award is not only financial support, but a sign of trust that inspires me to continue my research with full dedication."
To evaluate the eight applications submitted for the competition, a committee was formed consisting of Mkhitar Gabrielyan, Dean of the Faculty of History, PhD in History, Associate Professor, Hayk Mkhoyan, Deputy Dean and Head of Office of the Faculty of History, PhD in History, Associate Professor at the Chair of History of Neighboring Countries, Hayk Avetisyan, Head of the Chair of Archaeology and Ethnography, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor, Armine Petrosyan, Director of HaySanta Foundation, asnd members of Vahagn Tumasyan's family.
