Glendale, CA (October 11, 2024) – The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California has announced that Executive Director Shant Sahakian will be stepping down from his role following a decade of dedicated service at the developing cultural and educational center. He first joined the museum project as a volunteer in 2014. The Board of Trustees appointed him to serve as the museum’s inaugural Executive Director in 2019.
The museum will launch a national search to select the organization’s next Executive Director. Sahakian will volunteer as an advisor to the museum’s Board of Trustees to support the transition process.
“We are profoundly grateful to Shant Sahakian for his leadership, professionalism, and contributions to the Armenian American Museum,” stated Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian. “He has played a key role in the museum’s milestones – from the commencement of the construction to the design of the permanent exhibition as well as the organization of major events connecting thousands of supporters. The museum family extends its heartfelt appreciation to Shant Sahakian.”
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Executive Director of the Armenian American Museum,” stated outgoing Executive Director Shant Sahakian. “It has been a fulfilling experience to contribute to the development of the cultural and educational center. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside museum leadership, staff, and supporters to advance the project’s mission, vision, and promise.”
The museum’s mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Armenian American experience. The vision is a cultural campus that enriches the community, educates the public on the Armenian American story, and empowers individuals to embrace cultural diversity and speak out against prejudice. The cultural and educational center is currently under construction in the museum campus at Glendale Central Park.
To learn more about the museum project, visit ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org.