Armenian Officials Visit Fresno

BARLOW DER MUGRDECHIAN–ADVISOR

Yerevan State University and State Engineering Institute of Armenia officials were in Fresno for a two-day visit, February 13-14, with Fresno State officials.

The Armenian Studies Program hosted the delegation, whose visit and itinerary were developed with the assistance of Dr. Harold Haak, President Emeritus of Fresno State, who deserves special recognition for his participation. The officials were based in California State University, Pomona where they had been participating in a month-long program to learn about American universities and how they operate.

Academic Vice-President Dr. Edward Chubarian and Vice-President for International Relations Rafael Matevossian represented Yerevan State University and Vice-President Dr. Vostanik Maroukhian and Chairman of the Foreign Relations Office Dr. Michael Sarafian represented the State Engineering Institute.

Fresno State University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affirs Dr. Alex Gonzalez met with the delegation to discuss future closer ties between the universities. Dr. Peter Klassen, Dean of the School of Social Sciences and Director of International Programs was also involved in the discussions.

The delegation from the State Engineering Institute had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Elden Shaw, Dean of the School of Engineering and with Dr. Hamo Lalehzarian and Dr. Kenneth Moshier of the Industrial Technology Department.

The delegation from Yerevan State University met with Dr. Luis Costa, Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities, Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, Director of the Armenian Studies Program, and Barlow Der Mugrdechian of the Armenian Studies Program.

It was generally agreed that the result of the three day stay in Fresno was a clear perception and a definite willingness on both sides for an enlarging of the existing exchange agreement between Fresno State and Yerevan State University. A further agreement between Fresno State and the State Engineering University should to be drafted soon.

The delegation urged Fresno State students to come to Armenia for a year, semester, or summer program, especially as conditions in Armenia are improving.

Although brief, the visit by the Armenian University officials was extremely beneficial in developing plans between the universities.