Armenian American Museum Holds Gala Welcoming More than 1,000 Guests

The Armenian American Museum held a gala on Saturday, November 22, 2025. It drew more than 1,000 supporters and  community leaders gathered at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown.

The program began with a welcome from Master of Ceremonies Sona Movsesian

The Invocation was led by Board of Trustees Co-Chairs Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian representing the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian representing the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, Reverend Hendrik Shanazarian representing the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America, and Very Reverend Father Armenag Bedrossian represented the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of the United States and Canada.

Heritage Gala Chair Steve Mathison, PNG Builders President delivered hid address. PNG Builders has been the General Contractor for the museum’s landmark cultural and educational center since the start of construction in 2021, following approval by the Board of Trustees and Board of Governors after an extensive selection process.

“This museum isn’t just about architecture—it’s about identity. Every wall we raise holds history, every design choice honors memory, and every square foot stands as a tribute to resilience,” stated Heritage Gala Chair Steve Mathison. “On behalf of PNG Builders, we’re proud to be part of a project that will inspire generations to connect with their past and envision their future.”

The first Heritage Gala Honoree Award was presented to Emmy award winning FOX 11 Good Day L.A. Co-Anchor Araksya Karapetyan by Board of Trustees Co-Treasurer Talin Yacoubian representing Armenian General Benevolent Union Western Region and Board of Trustees Member Dr. Nazareth Darakjian representing Armenian Missionary Association of America. Karapetyan was recognized for her journalism, dedication to Armenian heritage, and her decades of elevating Armenian stories on one of Los Angeles’ most-watched morning broadcasts. The museum celebrated her long-standing support, dating back to her role as Master of Ceremonies at the Inaugural Gala.

“I am grateful to be part of this journey and humbled by this recognition. I would not be able to do what I do without God’s guidance, without my family’s support, my colleagues who have become friends, and this community,” stated Araksya Karapetyan. Your stories give my work meaning. This recognition belongs to all of us who carry our heritage, in ways both big and small. Together, we can continue to write our story.”

Alec Van Khajadourian, the young piano prodigy, delivered a moving musical performance that lit up the evening.

The stage came alive with a performance by the students of Sonata Music School, founded by Sona Vardanyan. Their performance kicked off with a qanon segment and transitioned into a rendition of Ara Gevorkyan’s Artsakh.

Next, the second Heritage Gala Honoree Award was presented to the renowned Alajajian Marcoosi Architects by Board of Trustees Co-Treasurer and Secretary Krikor Moloyan representing Nor Serount Cultural Association, Board of Trustees member Armen Hovannisian representing Armenian Cultural Foundation, and Board of Trustees member Garo Kupelian representing Nor Or Charitable Foundation. The award was presented in recognition of the firm’s four decades of visionary leadership and contributions to the architectural landscape of Glendale.

“Architecture is not just about physical form. It’s about creating a sense of belonging and shaping spaces that reflect the people they serve. When we set out to design this museum, we embraced the challenge of capturing a rich cultural heritage while creating a place for future generations to interpret, imagine, and explore,” stated Aram Alajajian. “Every structure and detail was chosen with purpose, creating a dialogue between function and beauty.”

“As architects, we shape space, but the real builders of this museum are the volunteers, leaders, and supporters whose determination has carried it forward,” stated Sako Marcoosi. “Tonight’s recognition humbles us. We are proud to contribute to a project that stands as a beacon of culture, memory, and identity for our community and future generations.”

Honorees were presented with a one-of-a-kind sculpture commissioned from London-based artist Garo Nigogosian, founder and director of Garogosi Studio. Each piece was crafted using geological material taken from the summit of Mount Ararat, capturing a suspended moment of snow and ice preserved within the stone. The gift honors the recipients’ inspiring stories and steadfast commitment to Armenian heritage and serves as a symbolic keepsake of Armenia’s enduring spirit.

Next, the City of Glendale Mayor Ara Najarian delivered remarks emphasizing the city’s unwavering support and reflecting on the significance of the museum as both a cultural anchor and a beacon for future generations.

Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian and Executive Vice Chairman Zaven Kazazian closed the evening by expressing their sincere appreciation for PNG Builders, Heritage Gala Sponsors, speakers, the museum team, performers, long-standing supporters, and more for making the evening possible. Board of Trustees Co-Chair Archbishop Hovnan Derderian added the importance of sustaining a world-class institution that will preserve Armenian heritage and foster education for the community.

Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian also expressed sincere gratitude for the major Naming Opportunity donors of the year including Joshua & Anna Macciello, Armen Manoogian, Isaac and Frieda Vartanian Family, and Zaruhy Sara Chitjian Foundation.