PRESS RELEASE
September 7, 2006
American University of Armenia
40 Marshal Baghramian
Yerevan 375019 ARMENIA
Tel: (37410) 512-522
Fax: (37410) 512-523
Contact: Diana Manukyan
E-mail: [email protected]
Thomas J. Samuelian is awarded the St. Sahak- Mesrop medal
Etchmiadzin. On August 30, 2006, His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All
Armenians, bestowed AUA Law Dean Tom Samuelian with the St. Sahak-Mesrop
medal in recognition of his nearly three decades of service to the Armenian
Church and nation. The Order of Sts. Sahak and Mesrop is one of the
church’s highest honors, reserved for individuals who have made outstanding
contributions in the fields of scholarship, education, culture, and service.
The Catholicos stated that he knew Dr. Samuelian personally and sincerely
appreciated his cheerful willingness to assist the Church on many occasions.
He cited Dr. Samuelian’s distinguished career as a scholar in the United
States at leading universities, church institutions, and community schools.
He made special mention of his many publications, including Armenian
textbooks, dictionaries, web-sites, and translations of Armenian classics,
such as the Narek and Yeznik Koghbatsi. He underscored Dr. Samuelian’s
long service in church parish life, as a choir member and trustee, and as a
bridge between Armenia and the Diaspora. He praised Dr. Samuelian as a
committed Christian and son of the Armenian Church and gave his Patriarchal
blessing.
The Hover Chamber Choir added luster to the evening, performing Komitas
sacred and secular pieces as part of the ceremony, which was attended by
over a hundred well-wishers and friends. US Ambassador John Evans was also
in attendance and delivered warm greetings, adding his appreciation for Dr.
Samuelian’s unique ability to integrate scholarly wisdom and practical
service and his contributions to Armenian-American relations. RA Foreign
Minister Oskanian also sent his congratulations, calling Dr. Samuelian "a
Renaissance man, a son of his nation, endowed with a deep spiritual inner
world, strong convictions and high principles," which inspire his work and
which "he generously shares with his co-workers and students."
The AUA Community joins in congratulating Dean Samuelian on this high honor
and wishes him many years of fruitful accomplishments.
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