HMADS Gala Dinner Dance: The Tradition of Celebration Continues…
By Arpi Arukian
When Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School (HMADS) first opened its welcoming doors to the Armenian community as “Hye Bardez” in 1967, little did its founders realize the impact it would have on the generations that followed. For nearly 50 years, HMADS has upheld a tradition of excellence in elementary education while inspiring a love and appreciation for Armenian heritage, language, and culture.
Surpassing the mandated New York State education standards, HMADS cultivates in its students a love of learning, a thirst for knowledge, a spirit of unity, and strength of character. Several years post-graduation, many of the alumni maintain a strong desire and responsibility to give back to the school, either monetarily or through service. They distinguish themselves with academic and professional honors, and as active and respected members of the Armenian community. It brings the school community great pride and joy to witness the return of many older alumni to HMADS as parents and members of the PTO, the school board, and the “Friends” fundraising committee. This ensures the school’s legacy will carry on for years to come.
The preservation of HMADS and its mission is the main goal of a dedicated group of supporters known as the “Friends of HMADS.” The Friends committee has coordinated and promoted fundraising activities since 1994, with extraordinary support from the greater Armenian community. Time and time again, this unwavering generosity has amazed us, allowing HMADS to maintain its high academic standards, while keeping tuition affordable for families. Chaired by school board treasurer Hovannes Malikyan, the Friends committee meets frequently to plan social and cultural programs and events, including the most anticipated one of the year: the annual gala dinner dance.
This year’s gala will be held on Sat., May 21 at the elegant North Hills Country Club located in Manhasset, N.Y. This significant fundraiser for the school is a truly elegant affair bringing together a vast group of HMADS supporters and friends. The evening’s festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. with a lavish cocktail hour, followed by a sumptuous multi-course dinner served at 9 p.m. Talented international singer Harout Bedrossian and his band from Toronto will provide the evening’s entertainment.
Join HMADS for an evening that is sure to be memorable. A contribution to the commemorative booklet, as well as the $130 admission donation, will greatly assist HMADS in continuing its mission of educating the next generation of Armenian Americans.
For more information on the gala dinner dance, call the school office at (718) 225- 4826; Nayda Voskerijian at (516) 603-2809; Siran Saroyan at (718) 224-0121; or Siragan Varolian at (718) 631-7131.
Arpi Arukian was in the HMADS Class of 1992.
Source: Armenian Weekly Mid-Atlantic