From Santa Monica to the East Coast: Bringing Artsakh's Story to University Students
On October 27, 2026, Lorik Humanitarian Fund founder Shunt Jarchafjian visited Santa Monica College for a presentation organized by the college's newly established Armenian Students Association.
The gathering provided an opportunity to share firsthand experiences from Artsakh, discuss the consequences of the forced displacement of its Armenian population, and introduce students to Lorik's ongoing humanitarian work.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Armenian Students Association at Santa Monica College for the invitation, warm welcome, and initiative in bringing students together for this discussion.
Sharing the Experience of Artsakh
Having lived in Artsakh from 2020 until September 2023, Jarchafjian experienced the 2020 war, the Azerbaijani blockade, and the September 2023 military offensive that resulted in the forced displacement of Artsakh's Armenian population.
The presentation explored these events through personal experiences, while also addressing the challenges families continue to face as they rebuild their lives in Armenia.
Students were introduced to Lorik's humanitarian programs, including permanent housing, educational scholarships, small business development grants, children's arts and sports programs, and cultural preservation initiatives.
These discussions are an opportunity not only to share what happened in Artsakh, but also to examine what can be done today to support its people and preserve their heritage.
Continuing the Conversation Across the East Coast
Following the Santa Monica College presentation, Lorik will continue its university outreach with five scheduled presentations across the eastern United States in November.
Upcoming University Presentations
November 10: George Washington University — Washington, DC
November 11: Columbia University — New York, NY
November 12: Fordham University — New York, NY
November 13: Rutgers University — New Jersey
November 16: Duke University — Durham, NC
At each university, Jarchafjian will share his experiences in Artsakh and discuss the continuing humanitarian needs of families forcibly displaced in September 2023.
The presentations also aim to introduce students to opportunities for involvement in humanitarian assistance, education, and cultural preservation.
Engaging the Next Generation
University Armenian student organizations play an important role in bringing communities together, preserving Armenian identity, and encouraging younger generations to engage with issues affecting Armenians worldwide.
We particularly congratulate the newly established Armenian Students Association at Santa Monica College and thank its members for taking the initiative to organize this event.
As Lorik continues its university outreach, we hope these conversations will encourage students to remain engaged with Artsakh's history, its people, and the ongoing efforts to help families rebuild their lives.
We are grateful to the students and organizers making these discussions possible, both in California and throughout our upcoming East Coast tour.
To learn more about Lorik Humanitarian Fund and our work, visit LorikHF.org.
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