Los Angeles, CA – On Tuesday, February 26, 2008, Armenian National Committee – Western Region (ANC-WR) Community Relations Director Haig Hovsepian met with over 100 grade 11 and 12 students at Ferrahian High School in Encino, California. Hovsepian discussed the programs and activities of the ANC-WR, and informed the students about several programs within the ANC that cater to students seeking a volunteer experience with the organization. Hovsepian also emphasized the importance of getting involved in local communities and the internship programs as a means by which they can become more knowledgeable and confident to do so.

“The session was very interesting and Haig did a great job,” stated senior Ferrahian student Nareen Melkonian. “Haig related current ANC activities to issues and concerns among Armenian youth. Although I was aware of how the ANC conducts its programs, it was valuable to understand how the programs benefit students,” she added.

Also present were two former interns, Aida Siyahian and Nareg Bostanian, who are both summer 2007 ANC-WR Internship-Externship Program graduates. Also in attendance was current ANC-WR Internship-Externship Program (IEP) participant Lori Kechichian.

In response to questions posed by a non-Armenian teacher, Hovsepian stressed the importance of working with other community organizations such as the Genocide Intervention Network.

“This was a great opportunity to connect with our high school activists,” said Hovsepian. “It is important that we help keep them updated regarding issues of concern to our community and continue to engage them – especially in our local ANCs and internship programs.”

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 #1 – ANC-WR Community Relations Director Haig Hovsepian addresses the student assembly at Ferrahian High School in Encino, CA.

Photo caption #2 – Ferrahian students assembly participates in ANC lecture.