Dr. Arshavir Gundjian Honored by AGBU Central Board for Decades of Service

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NEW YORK — Citing his legacy of service to Armenians worldwide and to the AGBU Montreal community in particular, the Armenian General Benevolent Union’s (AGBU) Central Board of Directors honored Dr. Arshavir Gundjian with a dinner and well-deserved tribute on April 1, at New York City’s University Club.

Gundjian, who most recently served as vice president of AGBU, was a board member for 35 years. A professor and researcher in quantum electronics at McGill University, Gundjian played a pivotal role in establishing the AGBU Alex Manoogian School in Montreal, which just recently celebrated its 40th anniversary.

“Arshavir’s legacy of service to Armenian communities worldwide through his lifelong involvement with the AGBU and other organizations is truly extraordinary,” said AGBU President Berge Setrakian. “He has been a friend, a fellow activist and a partner committed to the ideals and goals of the Union and a true believer in the values for which AGBU stands.”

Setrakian also paid tribute to Nadia Gundjian, whose tireless support contributed to her husband’s lifetime of dedicated service. Most notably, Setrakian announced that Gundjian would be named an emeritus member of the Central Board. He then presented him with a crystal plaque as a token of appreciation on behalf of the organization.

“Arshavir’s wisdom and experience will be missed on the board but I am confident his service to our organization and our people will continue,” concluded Setrakian.

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In his remarks, Gundjian reminisced about the many rewarding initiatives and achievements he had realized during his involvement with AGBU. He recalled how Alex Manoogian, one of AGBU’s greatest presidents, had inspired him to become an active community member and had consistently supported him in his various initiatives and endeavors. Gundjian also expressed his appreciation for the leadership and forward-looking vision of Setrakian, who has rejuvenated the leadership of the organization through a younger, energized and professionally-talented board.

Also adding their personal comments were Alexis Govciyan, chairman of the AGBU Europe District, and Armen Bechakjian, the current chair of the AGBU Montreal Chapter. Emotional and powerful closing remarks were made by the most senior member of AGBU’s Council of Trustees, Nazar Nazarian, a major philanthropist and benefactor, who stressed that his entire extended family had embraced AGBU and made it a part of their lives. “How I can serve the Armenian nation and Armenian people throughout the world is and continues to be the source of my happiness,” said Nazarian. “We should all do as Arshavir has done and promote AGBU as the best organization to achieve this purpose.”

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