‘Friends of HMADS’ Celebrate 20 Years of Service

By Arpi Arukian, ‘92

BAYSIDE, N.Y.—For the tight-knit Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School (HMADS) community, 2014 marks a historic year. Its fundraising pillar, the Friends of HMADS committee, proudly celebrates 20 years of benevolent service to the school. Established in 1994, the all-volunteer group of HMADS supporters, led by former school board chairman Nurhan Adarian, set out to ensure the financial stability of their beloved institution. Little did they realize what an impact their ambition would have in the many years to follow.

The Friends of HMADS at the Gala Dinner Dance 2013

For those who are unfamiliar with Friends of HMADS, it is chaired by current school board treasurer Hovannes Malikyan and comprised of a dedicated group of supporters, including board members, current and former parents, and alumni. The committee’s mission is to raise funds, consequently contributing to the economic growth of the school. Thanks to the efforts of Friends, the Day School is able to maintain an affordable tuition, making it possible for Armenian families to take advantage of this superior learning institution. Year after year, the committee provides HMADS with a balanced budget and financial dependability. The committee meets twice a month at the school to create, discuss, and plan social and cultural events that will also benefit the Armenian community as a whole.

Throughout its 20-year history, Friends of HMADS has proudly promoted Armenian performing arts groups, including Sayat Nova Music School from Yerevan and Navasart Dance Ensemble from France, as part of its fundraising efforts for the school. This past November, through the efforts of Malikyan and his wife, Ellza, the committee introduced the HMADS community to the art of Flamenco song and dance from southern Spain. Headed by world-renowned guitarist Pedro Cortes, an extremely talented Flamenco group mesmerized the packed church auditorium with their passionate performance.

Every fall, Friends of HMADS sponsors the Annual Telethon, one of its major fundraising events. Last year, Berj Haroutunian of Vital Transportation again offered use of his company office and equipment to telethon volunteers. Over the course of two evenings, the volunteers telephoned hundreds of local Armenian households to seek pledges to sustain their cherished school.

The spring season brings with it the most exciting Friends event of the school year, the annual Gala Dinner Dance, which this year will be commemorating the 20^th anniversary of the Friends committee. The event will take place on Sat., May 3, at Woodbury Country Club in Woodbury, Long Island. The evening’s festivities will commence at 7:30 p.m. with a lavish buffet and open bar, followed by a delicious multi-course dinner served at 9 p.m. Throughout the evening, musical entertainment will be provided by popular international singer Elie Berberian and his band.

Guests’ Gala Dinner Dance contribution of $130 will greatly support the efforts of the Friends committee and HMADS, and help future generations of Armenians preserve their rich culture and heritage. For more information about this highly anticipated event, or to find out how to become a part of the Friends of HMADS, call the school office at (718) 225-4826, Negdar Arukian at (718) 423-4813, Siragan Varolian at (718) 631-7131, or Arek Nisanyan at (718) 224-4736.