Fresno State alumni Joel and Jill Mazmanian have established an annual scholarship in the Armenian Studies Program at Fresno State.

Joel and Jill both attended Fresno State in the early 1990’s. Joel finished his college career at Boston University and Jill stayed on to earn her accounting degree from Fresno State’s Sid Craig School of Business. Her proudest college moment was being awarded the Dean’s Medal upon graduation in 1995, which provided her with many opportunities in the local Fresno community. Growing up in Fresno, Jill’s connection with Fresno State began at a very early age due to her family’s passion for attending Fresno State football and basketball games.

“We are both very proud of our education from Fresno State and continue to support the Bulldogs,” said the Mazmanians.

The Mazmanians were both involved in the Armenian Studies Program while attending Fresno State. “We were fortunate to have the opportunity to be educated in Armenian history through our enrollment in the Armenian Studies courses offered at the time,” said Joel and Jill. “Not only were we educated on the rich history, culture, traditions, and language of our ancestors, but we were able to enjoy the social aspect of taking these courses with our other Armenian friends. During our college years, Jill’s brother Jeff Ahronian was the chief editor for the Hye Sharzhoom newspaper which provided Joel the opportunity to use his creative journalistic skills to contribute to the newspaper that we continue to enjoy today.

“The Armenian Studies Program at Fresno State has grown to become one of the most recognized Armenian Studies programs in the country. We were proud to be a part of this program in the past and want to continue to support its future,” stated Joel and Jill.

Jill is very thankful for the Armenian Studies scholarships she received while attending Fresno State. Now her daughter Jordan is currently attending Fresno State and has received an Armenian Studies scholarship herself. Jordan is proud to be a part of the prestigious Smittcamp Family Honors Program.

“It was in our hearts to give back to our Fresno State community and we believe committing to an annual Armenian Studies scholarship will fulfill this goal,” said Joel and Jill. “The scholarships will also provide opportunities to other young students interested in preserving the history of rich Armenian culture.