SAN FERNANDO VALLEY—In an evening of celebration, unity, and vision for the future, Greg and Sylva Martayan hosted an illustrious reception in honor of Pepperdine University Chancellor Sara Young Jackson and Senior Vice Chancellor Hung Le. Held at the stunning Encino Banquet and Gardens, the event brought together a distinguished gathering of school administrators, boards of trustees, corporate executives, healthcare and law professionals, business owners, philanthropists, and institutional leaders.
The evening opened with a spirit of grace and reverence, featuring a beautiful benediction by Father George Bet-Rasho, followed by an uplifting prayer led by United Armenian Congregational Church’s Reverend Shant Barsoumian. The event was further blessed with heartfelt words from His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, delivered by Father Haroutioun Tachejian, setting a strong tone of faith, hope, academic excellence, and community.
“This evening, we are especially blessed by the presence of Pepperdine University’s esteemed Chancellor, Sara Young Jackson, and Senior Vice Chancellor, Hung Le. Their visionary leadership has played an instrumental role in upholding the university’s values of faith, purpose, and service. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Greg and Sylva Martayan for their gracious hospitality in hosting this beautiful reception in their honor. Your generosity and dedication to fostering meaningful connections between faith and education are deeply appreciated” stated Father Tachejian, reading from His Eminence Archbishop Derderian’s message.

The reception served as a powerful platform for establishing pathways for future generations of scholars, highlighting the importance of education, collaboration, and shared vision. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions around the development of opportunities for students and strengthening of partnerships.
Among the evening’s distinguished guests were LAFD Deputy Chief Jaime Moore, Congressman Brad Sherman’s Chief of Staff Scott Abrams, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath’s Director of Constituent Affairs Barri Worth Girvan, AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian Head of School David Ghoogasian, and Holy Martyrs Ferrahian School Principal Sossi Shanlian — along with many other impactful community leaders.
“Sylva and I are elated to bring together such an extraordinary group of individuals committed to higher education, service, and the advancement of future generations,” said Greg Martayan, a Pepperdine University alumnus and dedicated community leader. “We are steadfast in our recognition of Chancellor Sara Young Jackson and Senior Vice Chancellor Hung Le for their unwavering leadership and vision, and for the invaluable role Pepperdine University continues to play in shaping excellent, compassionate, and driven scholars.”

“It is a profound honor to celebrate the remarkable leadership and enduring legacy of Pepperdine’s leadership. Pepperdine’s mission of purpose and service inspires generations of students and educators alike. This evening is a tribute to the Pepperdine vision and a testament to the transformative impact it has on our community and beyond” stated David Ghoogasian, AGBU Head of School.
“We are filled with thankfulness as we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Pepperdine’s Chancellor and Senior Vice Chancellor, whose dedication to academic excellence and leadership has been a guiding light for the entire educational community. Their vision and commitment continue to inspire us as we shape the next generation of leader” expressed Sossi Shanlian, Principal, Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School
As the evening unfolded, the spirit of partnership, faith, and dedication was palpable. Guests left inspired, with a renewed commitment to working together to create opportunities, foster educational excellence, and build a brighter future.