Friends of YSU Foundation organizes another event in U.S.

At the initiative of the Friends of YSU Foundation, a panel discussion on public service was held at the Hero House in Glendale, California. The event aimed to reassess the contributions of Armenians to the civic life of Los Angeles and to outline new prospects for ensuring innovation in public engagement and education.

FoYSU Board Member Haig Nazarian briefly introduced the organization’s mission and goals, emphasizing the importance of continuing to implement strategic programs that contribute to the development of Yerevan State University, thereby supporting Armenian statehood and society.

The discussion was moderated by Silva Harapetian, an award-winning journalist, Amazon best-selling author, and the first Iranian-Armenian American television journalist in the United States.

Among the panelists were Armenui Ashvanian, a trailblazing jurist and the first Armenia-born judge on the Superior Court of Los Angeles County; Anna Mouradian, Chief of Staff to Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger; and Shant Sahakian, Member and former President of the Glendale Unified School District Board of Education.

Each panelist brought the perspective of their respective field of service—law, civic leadership, and education—offering a well-rounded look at how Armenians continue to contribute to the public sphere in Los Angeles. Their reflections helped attendees gain a deeper understanding of both the opportunities and the responsibilities of public service.

Following the discussion, a Q&A segment allowed for direct dialogue with the panelists, after which guests stayed to continue the conversation informally, building new connections and sharing ideas.

The event drew strong participation, meaningful conversation, and renewed enthusiasm for civic involvement. This insightful and inclusive discussion further fostered the exchange of diverse viewpoints.