Armenian Council of America Hosts Inaugural Gala Honoring Leadership and Advocacy

The Armenian Council of America (ACA) proudly hosted its inaugural Annual Gala on March 14, 2026, an evening dedicated to celebrating Armenian American heritage, honoring community leadership, and reaffirming the importance of civic engagement and advocacy. The event brought together community leaders, elected officials, clergy, cultural figures, and supporters for a night of recognition, inspiration, and unity.

The evening began with an opening prayer delivered by Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, who also read a congratulatory message on behalf of Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, commending the Armenian Council of America for its dedication to strengthening Armenian American civic participation and advocacy.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by Emmy-nominated journalist Ellina Abovian before a distinguished audience that included Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church; Representative Laura Friedman; Representative Judy Chu; California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez; California State Assemblymember Nick Schultz; Glendale City Councilmember Vartan Gharpetian and Dr. Armina Gharpetian; Dr. Hampig Sarafian, Chairman of the Social Democrat Hunchakian Party Central Committee; members of the SDHP Central Committee; Mehran Khatchadorian, Chairman of the SDHP Western United States Executive Committee, along with fellow Executive Committee members; members of the Armenian Council of America Board and Executive Committee; and numerous distinguished guests, family members, and supporters.

In her remarks, Abovian highlighted the mission and history of the Armenian Council of America, noting that ACA is committed to promoting the well-being, unity, and progress of the Armenian American community. She emphasized that the organization’s mission is to empower the Armenian American community, protect its heritage, and advocate for justice and human rights.

Throughout the evening, speakers reflected on the organization’s roots in Armenian American advocacy efforts dating back to the 1940s, when organized community engagement emerged in response to the consequences of the Armenian Genocide. They also emphasized ACA’s continued role in ensuring Armenian American voices remain present wherever important public decisions are made.

Guests were introduced to Taniel Koushakjian, Executive Director of Government Relations for the Armenian Council of America, who plays a key role in advancing ACA’s advocacy program by building relationships with public officials, engaging critical policy issues, and ensuring Armenian American perspectives are represented in Washington, D.C. Guests also heard remarks from Sevak Khatchadorian, Chairman of the Armenian Council of America, who reflected on the organization’s mission and future goals.

The evening also featured remarks from several distinguished elected officials. Representative Judy Chu, was welcomed and recognized for her longstanding attention to issues of deep importance to Armenian Americans. Representative Laura Friedman, who represents California’s 30th Congressional District, home to one of the largest Armenian American constituencies in the United States, was recognized for her advocacy on issues important to the Armenian American community, and her strong engagement with Armenian American constituents. California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez, representing the 25th Senate District, was introduced as a thoughtful and energetic leader serving communities across Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties. California State Assemblymember Nick Schultz, representing the 44th Assembly District, which includes Burbank, Glendale, and surrounding communities, was also welcomed and recognized for his record of public service, including his prior service on the Burbank City Council and as Mayor of Burbank. Glendale City Councilmember Vartan Gharpetian also addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of the Armenian Council of America and commending the organization for its consistent advocacy on behalf of the Armenian American community.

Special video messages were shared from several prominent elected officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom, who reaffirmed the importance of Armenian Genocide remembrance and expressed continued support for the Armenian American community. Additional messages were delivered by United States Senator Alex Padilla and United States Senator Adam Schiff, both of whom conveyed their appreciation for ACA and their continued commitment to issues of justice, democracy, and human rights.

The program also acknowledged representatives from the office of Assemblymember Jessica M. Caloza and the office of Los Angeles City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, who conveyed their recognition of ACA’s tireless advocacy.

A central part of the evening was the presentation of awards recognizing individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and achievements have made a lasting impact on the Armenian American community.

The Stepan Sapah-Gulian Integrity Award was awarded to Representative Frank Pallone Jr. in recognition of his longstanding principled public service and unwavering support for issues of importance to Armenian Americans.

The ACA honored several distinguished individuals with Lifetime Service Awards, which were presented by Sevak Khatchadorian, ACA Chairman of the Board, to Jirair Giragosian, Vahe Atchabahian, Garine Depoyan, Lena Manoukian, and Vasken Kaltakjian in recognition of their many years of service, commitment, and contributions to the community.

Suzy Atityan-Dammron, Esq., Chair of the ACA 2026 Gala Committee, presented the Corporate Benevolence Awards to Nexus Auto Group and R A & Associates in recognition of their generosity and support. She also presented the Armenian Excellence Awards to Eddie Zaratsian and Hrush Achemyan for their professional accomplishments and for bringing distinction to the Armenian American community through their respective fields, as well as the ACA Excellence in Journalism Award to Ellina Abovian in recognition of her outstanding contributions to journalism and her commitment to informing and uplifting the community.

Mr. Krikor Moloyan honored ACA Chairman Sevak Khatchadorian by presenting him with the Setrak Shahen Leadership Award in recognition of his steadfast leadership and dedication to the mission of the Armenian Council of America.

The evening continued with musical performances highlighting the richness of Armenian American culture and the importance of community connection. The program featured special performances by acclaimed Armenian folk and contemporary singers Marta Kirakosyan, Irina Sychov, and Robert Manukyan, whose artistry added a vibrant cultural dimension to the event.

The Armenian Council of America’s inaugural gala marked an important milestone for the organization and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Armenian American representation, civic engagement, and advocacy.

The Armenian Council of America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing civic engagement, public advocacy, and community leadership within the Armenian American community. Through policy engagement, public education, and community initiatives, ACA works to ensure Armenian American voices are represented in the civic and political life of the United States.