Mourad Armenian Saturday School of Providence, Rhode Island, held a school year end event on Sunday, May 19, at the Aramian Auditorium of Sts. Vartanantz church, with attendees including Rev. Fr. Kapriel Nazarian and Yn. Debra, Board of Trustees members, representatives of church organizations, parents, grandparents, and Drs. Ara and Betty Sadaniantz.
After the rendition of the national and school anthems with the piano accompaniment of student Mardiros Karazian, co-principal Lala Attarian welcomed all by stressing the importance of this year’s function as the school’s milestone and big accomplishments are celebrated. She thanked all the parents, teachers, organizations, and benefactors who believed in the school and contributed to 90 years of success and continuity.
A medley of songs and recitations dedicated to the Armenian alphabet and language were presented under the directorship of music teacher Raffi Rachdouni. Student Nyree Corriveau offered a piano performance of “Giligia,” followed by the enthusiastic singing of all the students.
In her message, co-principal June Mangassarian thanked all the teachers for their selfless efforts throughout the year, especially to Angel Kozinian for her over 30 years of dedication to the school. Mrs. Kozinian was presented with a special award from the school committee and the greater school family.
Hagop Khatchadourian, the school committee chairman, thanked the co-principals, teachers, parents, individuals, and organizations who actively contributed to the school’s success. He reminded the audience about the 2024 message of Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, “Year of Human Resources Preparation,” which ties in so truly with the mission of our school which has endured for 90 years.
Two graduates, Arpi Donoyan and Nora Tarpinian, who still serve the school as teachers, were awarded the Maggie Nalbandian College Bound Scholarship that was established by Drs. Ara and Betty Sadaniantz 14 years ago for worthy Mourad School graduates heading to college, in addition to the Araxie Arzoomanian and Anahid Kibarian Scholarship for an attending student. Four students—Donovan Hagopian, Raelynn Hall, Natalie Keshijian, and Gregory Lora— received kindergarten graduation diplomas.
In his closing remarks, Fr. Kapriel congratulated the co-principals, teaching staff, graduates, and honorees. He encouraged the Mourad School to continue in its noble mission of educating the young in our faith and language, so that the torch passed on by the founders remains bright and alive.
