Sierra Canyon Embraces the Spirit of Armenian Heritage Month

Sierra Canyon recognized Armenian Cultural Heritage Month throughout April with meaningful celebrations and cultural appreciation.

On April 11, Lower Campus students gathered in the Barn for a presentation created by their peers, spotlighting Armenian history and culture. The video honored various notable Armenian figures—from pioneering inventors to influential artists and humanitarians—and was later featured in a televised segment on Good Day LA. The celebration continued with two traditional Armenian dances performed by members of the Hayastan Cultural Center in full costume, followed by a traditional Armenian lunch enjoyed by students and faculty. Lusy Lalabekyan (Daron '25 and Daliah '28) reflected, "It was so heartwarming to watch our youngest Trailblazers share their culture and heritage with our community."

On April 23, during Upper Campus Community Time, members of the Armenian Cultural Heritage Club—Mark K. '25, Anoush A. '26, Daron J. '25, Ria L. '25, Nelly A. '28, Arpi S. '27, Marcus A. '26, and Ben B. '27—guided their peers through an engaging cultural experience. The program featured a performance by singer Alene Aroustamian, who sang the traditional "Zepyuri Nman" in Armenian and "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." The event also included an electrifying drumming performance by LA Dholavengers Hamuyt, which captivated the audience and set the stage for the final celebration—a traditional Armenian circle dance. Led by Albert Vartanians, Director of the Ararat Dance Group, students joined hands and filled the Gym floor in a joyful, shared expression of culture and community. During lunch, students were also given a taste of traditional Armenian cuisine.

To conclude the month-long celebration, the Armenian Heritage Parent Group treated Lower Campus students to a special snack on April 28 of chechil (Armenian string cheese), grapes, and lavash bread. As students gathered at the Farmhouse, two life-sized puppets portraying Tatik and Papik—beloved figures from Armenian folklore—danced through the crowd to the rhythmic beat of the dhol, a traditional Armenian drum, creating a joyful and immersive moment. Christine Ayvazyan (Noah '33) shared, "Our conversations at home about Armenian Cultural Heritage Month were full of excitement. As a family, we were so proud of and grateful to Sierra Canyon for their effort in celebrating diversity."

Moments like these reflect Sierra Canyon's commitment to One Sierra, a community that celebrates connection, belonging, and shared learning.

Thank you to the Armenian Heritage Parent Group and the Armenian Cultural Heritage Club for leading the way in celebrating Armenian culture throughout April, and to the students, faculty, performers, and community members whose creativity and spirit made the month memorable.

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