Remembering the past while preparing for the future is one of many values taught at the Academy. Following these principles, ASA students celebrated Vartanatz Day and the heroic struggles of Vartan Mamigonian who fought against the Persians to maintain Christianity. Although the battle took place in 451, it was monumental in the survival of the Armenian Christian nation and is celebrated as a religious and national holiday.

            At the Academy, Principal Sister Emma Moussayan welcomed the audience of clergy, students, parents and friends to this annual celebration. “At the Academy we instill in the child’s heart the importance of religion by celebrating Vartanantz Day. Our past is always present and our present is our future. With this theme we must work to ensure the existence of our nation,” she explained. Following tradition, the Montessori students opened the program with songs and poems honoring St. Vartan. What a gift to know history is honored by these youngsters who proudly waved flags they created in Mamigonian’s honor!

           The play, performed entirely in Armenian, not only recognized the memory of Vartan and his soldiers, but also the priests who died defending their faith and the Armenian women who gave  their worldly belongings to help their husbands, brothers and sons in battle. Performed by the 4th through 6th grade students, the moving production depicted the lives that were lost, yet the triumph that Christianity was sustained.

         Sister Emma thanked upper grade Armenian teacher Mrs. Tamar Panosian and music teacher and accompanying pianist Mrs. Maroush Paneyan - Nigon. Mrs. Danielle Jehanian and Sister Hovanna Aroyan, Armenian teachers for the younger grades, were also acknowledged.  The most important thank you went to the students for learning their parts so well.

         Very Rev. Fr. Oshagan Gulgulian of St. Sahag & St. Mesrob Armenian Apostolic Church then spoke stressing the importance of this event and that Vartan has not died, but he lives in all of us. “Vartan Mamigonian’s mission is not over....it is more important than ever, and one of his missions is this school. If the school closes, his sacrifices were in vain. Yet if the schools and Armenian institutions remain strong, his legacy carries on,” commented Fr. Oshagan. “God bless you and your mission and dedication. Thank you for taking history from your mouths to God’s ears,” he concluded.
        
         Guests walked away proud of their heritage and even more gratified that the Academy continues to instill Armenian faith and history in its students.