UCLA student gets involved with ANC Professional Network, investigates Turkish pressure in American Academia
GLENDALE, Calif.,—Maria Akopyan, a recent graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles is wrapping up her 8th week as an intern with the Armenian National Committee-Western Region’s Internship-Externship Program (ANC-WR IEP). As part of the program she has focused on Community and Government Affairs while externing with the Armenian National Committee-Professional Network (ANC-PN).
“I always strive to be civically engaged in the Armenian-American community and do my part in advancing the Armenian cause,” Akopyan stated. “I joined the Armenian National Committee-Western Region IEP to learn the necessary skills that would help me be a better leader on these issues.”
Akopyan’s main project is investigating Turkish governmental pressure related to the Armenian Genocide in American academia. She is also learning more about the ANC’s community grassroots development efforts by assisting the regional office staff in its efforts to organize Armenian Americans in California’s Coachella Valley.
Akopyan particularly welcomed the opportunity to work with the ANC-PN. As a recent graduate, she is learning first hand about ways in which young professionals can stay involved in the ANC. As an extern with the ANC-PN, she has assisted other young professional volunteers with their projects and is also updating the organization’s website.
At UCLA, Akopyan majored in political science and minored in philosophy. She was an active member of the International Honors Society and the Armenian Student Association. She plans on attending law school and pursuing a career as a practicing attorney.
The Armenian National Committee-Western Region is the largest Armenian American grassroots community organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANC-WR works to promote understanding regarding issues of concern to the Armenian American community.
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PHOTO CAPTION: ANC-WR IEP 2010 Summer Session Intern, Maria Akopyan
I am proud of Maria, for being actively concerned about the Armenian community and her involvement with our heritage.