PRESS RELEASE
Armenian Studies Program
Ingrid Peterson Administrator
University of Michigan
1080 S. University, Suite 3633
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1106
Phone: 734.763.0622; Fax: 734.763.4918
email: [email protected]
New Gift to the Armenian Studies program at the University of Michigan
Bequest Focuses on Student Research and Overseas Experiences
ANN ARBOR, MICH., January 6, 2010-
The late Mr. Robert S. Ajemian of Michigan has willed the Armenian
Studies Program at the University of Michigan the generous amount of
$350,000. This gift has been designated for student use in two
endowment funds: the annual proceeds of the first ($250,000) will be
available for general support for students in Armenian studies, while
the proceeds of the remaining $100,000 are designated for student
travel and research abroad. The funds reserved for research and travel
abroad also qualify for President Mary Sue Coleman’s Challenge for The
Student Global Experience which will add another $50,000 from
University funds to the initial endowment amount. Starting in the
spring of 2010 students at the UM with research related to Armenia and
Armenian studies will be able to benefit from the proceeds of this
generous and thoughtful combined endowment of $400,000.
Mr. Ajemian was born in Detroit in 1927, the son of a student
from Chmshkatzak and a survivor of the Genocide. He served in the US
army, studied chemistry at Wayne State University. He developed a
career in occupational health and pollution prevention. He worked for
major companies and published extensively. He was an outstanding
member of the Armenian community in the Detroit area. In addition to
the generous gift provided to the University of Michigan, Mr. Ajemian
made funds available to various organizations within the Armenian
community, including to the A.G.B.U Alex & Marie Manoogian School in
Southfield, Michigan, and the Armenian General Benevolent Union.
The endowments established by Mr. Ajemian will be known as the
Haiganoosh Mengushian/Ajemian Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Armenian Studies Program
The University of Michigan’s Armenian Studies Program promotes the
study of Armenian history, culture, and society. A member of the
University of Michigan International Institute, the program organizes
educational opportunities for students, faculty and the community.
For more information, contact the Armenian Studies Program at (734)
763-0622 or visit
University of Michigan International Institute
The University of Michigan International Institute houses 18 centers
and programs focused on world regions and global themes. The institute
develops and supports international teaching, research, and public
affairs programs to promote global understanding across the campus and
to build connections with intellectuals and institutions
worldwide. For more information, visit
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From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
