Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian was a guest speaker at the Phoenix Secondary Academy in Fresno on Monday, January 26, 2026. This was Prof. Der Mugrdechian’s second visit to the Academy, where students learn about a variety of cultures.
More than forty students and staff of the Academy attended the morning talk. Prof. Der Mugrdechian divided his presentation into several parts, beginning with an overview of Armenian history and culture. He emphasized the significance of Armenian’s conversion to Christianity and also the invention of the Armenian alphabet in the fifth century. Students were intrigued by the unique shapes of the Armenian letters.
Prof. Der Mugrdechian in-formed students how the modern Republic of Armenia became independent on September 21, 1991. He showed images of the capital city Yerevan, describing it as a modern city home to more than one million people.
Fresno and Armenia have many connections. There is a statue of the epic hero David of Sassoon in both Fresno and Yerevan, with both statues becoming landmarks in their respective cities. Another significant connection is through the Armenian Genocide.
There is an Armenian Genocide Monument in Yerevan, at Tzitzernakapert, and also an Armenian Genocide Monument at Fresno State. The Fresno State monument was built in 2015, on the hundredth anniversary of the Genocide.
Prof. Der Mugrdechian then moved the focus of his presentation to the local Armenian community. He gave numerous examples of Armenians who had made significant contributions to their community. Armenian churches are another dimension of the Armenian presence in the San Joaquin Valley – they demonstrate the continuing faith of the Armenians, as well as their connection to their history.
Prof. Der Mugrdechian concluded his presentation with an overview of Armenian food and music. Students enjoyed learning about traditional Armenian foods and also enjoyed the sounds of traditional Armenian music.
Following the presentation, students asked a variety of questions about the Armenians and Armenian history.
Phoenix Secondary Academy is a unique educational program designed to meet the needs of students exhibiting behavioral challenges in grades 7 through 12 for Fresno Unified School District. The program creates an environment in which the staff builds strong relationships with students and parents, and work to create positive learning experiences that support future success.
The academic program is structured to provide rigorous class offerings and intensive, focused support in areas of identified student need.