ASSEMBLY BANQUET HONORS TWO

A gala banquet capped off the successful Diocesan Assembly, which was skillfully hosted by the St. Gregory the Enlightener Church of White Plains, N.Y., on May 1. Guests at the banquet enjoyed the food and fellowship and were treated to a performance by the Shushi Dance Ensemble of St. Vartan Cathedral.

During the banquet the Diocese honored two men for efforts to continue and foster the Armenian culture.

HONORING FRIENDS

Rabbi Arthur Schneier, founder and president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation—an international organization dedicated to freedom of religion and human rights issues—was presented with the “Friend of the Armenians” award.

“The Armenian of the Year” award was presented to Dr. Vartan Gregorian, president of the Carnegie Corporation and former president of Brown University and the New York Library.

“Both of our honorees are men of deep faith, which has inspired them to action,” said Archbishop Khajag Barsamian. “Neither has lost their faith in the better angels of human nature. Their sense of hope has helped them not only endure but excel in life.”

Both men came from humble backgrounds and overcame obstacles to rise to prominence. Rabbi Schneier was a survivor of the Holocaust and Dr. Gregorian came to America from Iran and ascended through the academic world.

“And both have dedicated their efforts to the greater good,” the Primate said. “This weekend we talked about stewardship: the giving of your time, talent, and treasure. Each of these men exemplifies that virtue at the highest level.”