Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
By Arakel Arisian
ASO President
The Armenian Students Organization (ASO) is well into its 24th year of existence. Coming off a successful year, the newly elected executive is focused and committed to making the organization even better. The ASO of California State University – Fresno was founded in 1974 in order to encourage students to learn and appreciate Armenian history, culture, heritage and language. It is a forum for Armenians to come together as a cultural group regardless of political orientation, race, religion, or national origin.
At the first meeting of the year the following individuals were elected: President-Arakel Arisian, Vice President-Sosi Thomassian, Secretary-Rita Aramian, Treasurer-Raffy Khorozian, Historian-Michael Harutinian. Since the election the ASO has participated in events such as: a fundraising Car Wash, Fresno State football game, and another general meeting. The organization has planned for October: a Shish Kebab sale on October 14, 1997, a celebration of Armenian Cultural Month, and will soon begin play in an Intramural coed volleyball league.
Being that the ASO has so many upcoming events and fun activities the executive sees no reason that any Fresno State or FCC student should not join. Fresno has one of the larger Armenian communities and the University has a large Armenian population. Therefore, it follows that the ASO should have large membership. Unfortunately, membership is not as high as it should be. This is because of a number of reasons such as people not knowing about the organization or people not thinking it is worth their time.
ASO is a fun means of accomplishing our goals and for someone to be involved with Armenian culture. Additionally, the ASO is open to new ideas and ways of doing things. All students need a way to express their culture and have a good time. So any of you who don’t know about ASO need come out to one of the events and see what it is all about. The ASO challenges all young Armenians at Fresno State to be involved and to partake in the important functions of ASO.
If there are any questions or comments about ASO please contact Arakel Arisian at arakela@csufresno.edu