Armenian Mesrobian School Celebrates 60th Anniversary at Diamond Jubilee Gala
The Armenian Mesrobian School marked a historic milestone with its 60th Diamond Anniversary Gala, held on Sunday, May 18, bringing together alumni, community leaders, benefactors, and educators.
The gala was held at the Taghlyan Complex in Los Angeles. The evening featured tributes, a video celebrating the 60 years, silent auction, and a series of special awards honoring individuals and groups who have shaped the school’s journey.
Mesrobian alumus Raffi Kassabian served as the Master of Ceremonies and in a moving salute to his alma mater welcomed the attendees to the 60th anniversary celebration.
California State Senator Bob Archuleta attended the gala and presented a special proclamation to Principal Lena Garabedian.
The school also received a heartfelt letter for its accomplishments from Western Prelate Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, who was unable to attend because he was in the Vatican for Pope Leo XIV’s consecration ceremony. The Prelate’s letter was delivered and read by Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian of Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello..
Officials from the Armenian community were also in attendance, including Board of Regents Chair Sarkis Ourfalian and member Silva Kirakossian, and representatives from other organizations.
The school presented several distinguished awards:
- The Mashtots Award for Volunteerism was presented to longtime volunteer Lussy Garboushian.
- The Zabel Yesayan Legacy Award honored Azniv “Zina” Minassian for her commitment to Armenian education and cultural preservation.
- The Simon Vratsian Award for Lifelong Learning was awarded to educator Zepur Ohanessian.
The school also honored the Armenian Mesrobian Gym and Performing Arts Committee for their instrumental role in the visioning, planning, and realization of the school’s first-ever gymnasium and performing arts center.
The award was presented by School Board Chair Christopher Guldjian, who also announced that $3.5 million was raised in total, including contributions generated through the evening’s event.
“This wasn’t just a celebration of our past—it was a declaration of our future,” said Principal Lena Garabedian. “For 60 years, Mesrobian has been a place where identity is nurtured, values are passed down, and generations are empowered. The success of this gala reminds us that our community’s belief in education and heritage is stronger than ever.”
With generous support from sponsors and donors, the Gala raised critical funds to enhance academic programs, support facility development, and invest in student enrichment.
Mesrobian was the first Armenian elementary day school established in the United States.
