AEF Holds Annual Scholarship Reception in Yerevan

AEF’s 2025 Yerevan Scholarship Reception

The Armenian Educational Foundation held its Annual Scholarship Reception this fall on September 28, 2025, at the Meridian Expo Center in Yerevan, bringing together more than 1,570 guests, including over 1,300 scholarship recipients and graduates, AEF sponsors and supporters to celebrate the organization’s continued investment in education across Armenia and Artsakh.

The event began with an interactive group activity, where attendees collaborated to assemble a creative AEF photo puzzle, a symbolic representation of unity and shared purpose. This was followed by a giant group Karno Kochari dance, bringing together guests and students in a celebration of culture and togetherness. The formal program then commenced, featuring remarks from Armine Haroyan, Executive Director of AEF’s Armenia Office; Serop Beylerian, President of AEF’s Board of Directors; and Seda Davidian, Chair of the Scholarship Committee in Armenia.

Kochari Group Dance at AEF Scholarship Reception

In her remarks, Haroyan reflected on AEF’s 75-year legacy. “For 75 years, AEF has believed that education is the strongest tool for our country’s development. Through education, we don’t just change one student’s future— we help shape families, communities, and ultimately our homeland.”

Beylerian thanked the sponsors and encouraged students to continue pursuing excellence, reminding them that “Education is the most powerful weapon that can change the world. The Armenian Educational Foundation gives you this unique opportunity—to change the world and achieve your dreams.”

The program featured a presentation on AEF’s initiatives, along with remarks by distinguished alumni Vazgen Muradyan, Advisor to the Minister of Justice of Armenia, and Anna Sahakyan, Deputy Principal of the Anahit Tsitsikyan Music School, who shared the lasting impact of their AEF scholarships.

Musical performances were by AEF alumna Mariam Zohranyan and her ensemble, as well as by students of Anna Sahakyan, adding a creative touch to the celebration. A slideshow highlighted the contributions of AEF’s student volunteers, underscoring the organization’s spirit of service and community engagement.

In the final portion of the event, AEF graduate and sponsor Hamlet Khnkoyan, Founder and CEO of Big Projects LLC, as an esteemed program alumni and success story. He encouraged the students to pursue their passion and one day pay it forward, to one day make monthly donations themselves and support the next generation of students to come. The reception concluded with a photo session uniting students and sponsors, a symbolic moment that reflected AEF’s commitment to connecting generations through education.

AEF Scholarship Recipients & Alumni Gathered with Sponsors

Founded in 1950, the Armenian Educational Foundation continues to expand its scholarship and school programs throughout Armenia and the diaspora. With each new academic year, AEF reaffirms its belief that education matters—as both a personal opportunity and a national responsibility. For more information, please visit www.aef.org.