CANOGA PARK, CA – AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School proudly marked the official groundbreaking of its highly anticipated Collaborative Learning Center (CLC). The momentous occasion brought together administration, current & past board members, building committee, students, faculty, community leaders, donors, and distinguished guests to celebrate the future of education at the school.
The ceremony commenced with the color guard entrance by the AGBU AYA San Fernando Valley Chapter Scouts. Student Council President, Karin Oruncakciel & Vice President, Hooys Dorian delivered their heartfelt gratitude and excitement on behalf of the entire student body. Notable figures in attendance included David Bright from Mayor Karen Bass’ office, Yervant Demirjian from AGBU Central Board, and Gohar Stambolyan, Director of AGBU Western Region. Former Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian who has been involved and supportive of this project from its inception, spoke about the strength of our community. Aaron Carrera, representing Councilmember Bob Blumenfield’s office, presented a certificate of recognition to commemorate the occasion.
Head of School David Ghoogasian delivered a heartfelt address, emphasizing the significance of the CLC in shaping the next generation of students. Chairman of the Board, Kevork Zoryan, and AGBU Central Board member Sinan Sinanian, a longtime supporter of the school, echoed this shared vision, expressing their enthusiasm for the future. Mr. Zoryan emphasized the deep-rooted connection between the school and the broader community, underscoring how this partnership has been pivotal in shaping the institution’s success. He spoke about the transformative potential the new facility holds—not just as a space for learning but as a symbol of unity, progress, and cultural preservation. Mr. Sinanian, offering a historical perspective, reflected on the decades of growth and advancement that have brought the school to this moment. He spoke passionately about the journey from humble beginnings to the flourishing institution it is today, recognizing the collective efforts of those who have contributed along the way.
Special recognition was also given to Christine Simone, one of the school’s benefactors, whose continued support honors the legacy of her late grandfather, Alex Manoogian, a visionary philanthropist and pillar of the Armenian community. The ceremony ended with a blessing of the soil by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Father Yeremia Abgaryan, Father Gevork Abyan and Father Shnork Demirjian, setting the tone for a day filled with promise and gratitude.
Following the groundbreaking ceremony, guests, including members of the Student Council, gathered for a reception where they reflected on the school’s remarkable journey and shared in the collective enthusiasm for the future. Guests were gifted custom ceremonial shovels commemorating the significance of the event.
AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School’s Collaborative Learning Center will provide students with state-of-the-art facilities designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence. Thanks to the unwavering support of the school community and benefactors, the CLC will serve as a beacon of learning for generations to come.
