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Hye Sharzhoom is a supplement of The Collegian and the newspaper of the Fresno State Armenian Students Organization and the Armenian Studies Program and is funded by the Associated Students. Articles may be reprinted provided Hye Sharzhoom is acknowledged. Hye Sharzhoom welcomes prose, poetry, articles and other material from its student readers.

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Hye Sharzhoom

Armenian Students Organization Elects New Executive Officers

By Natalie Agazarian, Editor

Oct 28, 2023

Barlow Der Mugrdechian

Left to right: Careen Derkalousdian, Karina Messerlian, Alec Karayan, Armand Karkazian, and Simon Zhamkochyan.

The Armenian Students Organization (ASO) held their first meeting of the 2023-2024 school year on Thursday, August 31. Elections for officers were held with the following results: Alec Karayan, President; Armand Karkazian, Vice President; Careen Derkalousdian, Secretary; Simon Zhamkochyan, Treasurer; and Karina Messerlian, Publicist. Collectively, the board is unified in its goals of strengthening the participation of students in ASO, collaborating with Armenian student groups on other campuses, and providing fun and informative events for the student community.

Alec Karayan
President
Plant Science Major and Minor in Ag Business

What would you like to accomplish as an ASO Executive officer?

I would like to continue the success that this organization has had throughout its history. I would also love to bring in new members that have not previously attended ASO events, offer fun events, and serve the members of ASO. I feel that I can benefit the organization by introducing new ideas and utilizing the connections that I and other board members have within our community to strengthen our organization.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

In my free time, I work in the agricultural field and love to spend time outdoors. I used to be hesitant in taking on leadership roles, but being in ASO made me realize the potential I have in this role and how fun it is coordinating with the other executives.

Armand Karakazian
Vice President
Ag Business Major

What would you like to accomplish as an ASO Executive officer?

I would like to make ASO more friendly to the Armenians that don’t really have Armenian friend groups. I would like to unite the Armenians at Fresno State with new events, more student participation, and more fun.

Why are you interested in ASO?

I think the ASO is important at Fresno State. Not only do we get to meet new Armenians, but we also carry out some of the Armenian traditions. This is a way for me to give back to my Armenian community and to the leaders who have inspired me growing up.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I enjoy fishing, playing sports, and attending car shows. I look forward to catching up with the old faces, and meeting some of the new faces in ASO.

Careen Derkalousdian
Secretary
Biochemistry Major
and Minor in
Armenian Studies

What would you like to accomplish as an ASO Executive officer?

I would like to collaborate with the other board members in planning events to bring our Armenian youth together and also to raise awareness on campus regarding Armenian issues.

Why are you interested in ASO?

I have had so much fun attending ASO events and have made so many new friends through this organization. My positive experience with ASO motivates me to continue being an active member and officer to make sure new and returning members have the best experience possible.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

In my free time, I enjoy working out as well as reading and researching about Christian apologetics.

Simon Zhamkochyan
Treasurer
Finance Major

What would you like to accomplish as an ASO Executive officer?

I hope to further build upon the community of Armenians here at Fresno State.

Why are you interested in ASO?

I have been interested and involved in ASO because I have met many new people within the Armenian community and I want to do my part in bringing other Armenian students together.

What are your goals for the ASO?

My main goal for ASO is to create an environment where all types of individuals from different backgrounds can come together to experience Armenian culture and build long-lasting connections.

Karina Messerlian
Publicist
Liberal Studies Major and Minor In
Armenian Studies

What would you like to accomplish as an ASO executive officer?

As publicist, my goal is to promote ASO on social media by sharing information about upcoming events, trips, and social opportunities. I hope our posts garner attention from ASO members, Fresno State Students, and the larger Armenian community.

Why are you interested in ASO?

It is important for me to be an active member in our organization. I have met new people and have made unforgettable memories! I think ASO is a great way to bring Fresno State’s Armenian and non-Armenian students together and gives us opportunities to celebrate our culture.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

Outside of ASO, I am very involved in Fresno’s Armenian community. I am an Eagle Scout, part of Fresno’s Homenetmen Scouting Unit, and am also a member of the Armenian Youth Federation.