Los Angeles, CA – Hovanes Gasparian is making his mark. As one of seven interns for the Armenian National Committee – Western Region’s Summer 2008 Internship – Externship Program (ANC-WR IEP), Gasparian has engaged himself in the fast-paced world of government and public affairs. As a Community and Government Affairs intern, Gasparian has been actively scheduling August Congressional Recess Meetings to continue the Armenian American community’s strong relationships with elected officials throughout the western United States.

“My position as a Government and Community Affairs intern has given me first-hand experience in the political process in terms of contacting and communicating with Members of Congress,” stated Gasparian. “I really enjoy the opportunity of working with community leaders and student activists while learning about the Armenian Cause,” he added.

Gasparian currently attends UC Berkeley where he studies International Political Economy. Upon graduating, he plans to attend Law School and pursue an MBA thereafter.

Gasparian learned about the ANC-WR IEP while working with the Armenian Students’ Association, which piqued his interest as he learned about the opportunities available through the ANC. Prior to his internship, Gasparian also volunteered at the ANC of San Francisco on several occasions. Gasparian strives to engage and encourage the Armenian American community to increase their civic engagement and looks forward to utilizing the knowledge and experience he gains from his tenure as an intern at ANC-WR to accomplish this goal.

The Armenian National Committee – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANC-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

Photo Caption – Hovanes Gasparian at the ANC-WR offices.