Hye Sharzhoom Armenian Action
Natalie Agazarian
Editor
“I feel that I offer an interesting mix of forensic, theoretical, and political perspectives, as well as an appreciation of the agency of target groups,” remarked Dr. Simon Maghakyan, reflecting on his position as the 20th Kazan Visiting Professor in Armenian Studies at California State University, Fresno for the Fall 2024 semester.
Born in Yerevan, Armenia, Dr. Maghakyan earned a degree in Political Science before completing his Ph.D. in Defense and Security, focusing on heritage crime, at Cranfield University. His work is deeply influenced by stories from his father about life in Julfa and interaction with Azerbaijanis. This personal connection informs his research, which focuses on heritage, security, politics of the past, and the material history and conflict in Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkey. At Fresno State, Dr. Maghakyan brings this expertise to the upper-division course Armenian Studies 120T – “Armenian Heritage and Conflict.”
“Everyone can have anxieties surrounding heritage, but not anyone can be destructive. In this class, we question why some countries completely destroy forms of tangible and intangible heritage, as well as the history that validates that narrative,” stated Dr. Maghakyan.
Students in the course have found it both eye-opening and engaging.
“The most interesting thing I have learned so far is that there are a large number of Armenian heritage sites that have been destroyed by Azerbaijan, and that Turkey is turning many Armenian churches into mosques,” said David Ashkharian, a Marketing major, who is pursuing a Minor in Armenian Studies.
“I didn’t realize the extent of falsification that was taking place in Turkey and Azerbaijan, and it was especially shocking to see when Dr. Maghakyan showed us before and after satellite imagery,” said History major Tyler Peterson.
Dr. Maghakyan has created an interactive and student-centered environment, encouraging exploration of each student’s own cultural and academic interests within the context of heritage. Reflecting on his teaching experience this semester, Dr. Maghakyan noted, “I enjoy the classroom setting at the college level. I missed the interactions with the students and faculty, and it is especially honorable to have this experience at a world-renowned program.”
The students have appreciated the opportunity to learn and research about the artifacts and architectural elements of the past, applying these studies to their own political and social interests in preparation for an upcoming group video project.
“This class has challenged me to think beyond the lines of a typical class and apply it to things that are going on in the world,” said Ashkharian.
“My experience in the class with a visiting professor has been great,” stated Peterson. “I think it’s cool to hear from someone from Armenia and to be able to hear his account of what he personally can add to every lecture, as he has seen first-hand the result of so much destruction of Armenian heritage sites. I would definitely recommend this class, as each lecture is thought-provoking and very informative.”
The diverse group of students in this class has gained more than just an understanding of heritage conflict – they have developed critical thinking skills and the ability to take action in support of the social and political causes they value. These are lifelong skills that many will carry with them well beyond graduation.
“I have really valued the time with my students,” Dr. Maghakyan stated. “It has allowed me to refine my perspectives and presentations – we have learned together.”