25 February 2014, 20:04
165267 |

Harry Nadjarian to receive heritage award

For more than a decade, the Lebanese American Foundation, Inc. (“LAF”) has worked tirelessly to establish one of the nation’s first urban, Lebanese-American cultural and educational centers in Los Angeles. This April, the LAF will celebrate its 13-year effort during the annual Ray R. Irani Pride of Heritage Award Gala Banquet.

On April 5 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Harry Nadjarian, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Industrial Motor Power Corporation, is the 2014 recipient of the prestigious Ray R. Irani Pride of Heritage Award. Mr. Nadjarian is being recognized for his commitment and philanthropic efforts, as well as, his civic leadership and unyielding dedication to the local Lebanese-American community.

In a recent interview by the House of Lebanon, Nadjarian said “While we considered ourselves Lebanese, we also learned the importance of preserving our Armenian heritage, thanks to the dedication of my parents, grandparents and later through civic and educational involvement. Preserving and sharing our heritage and culture adds to our diversity and multiculturalism and enriches our cultural identity. This was true then and is true now -- especially in a community as diverse as Los Angeles."

Nadjarian continued: “The tradition of humanitarianism stems back many generations in my family. I was raised with strict guidelines when it came to community activism. Giving back to your community is not limited to status, position or income. There’s room in philanthropy and volunteerism for everyone. As for my involvement, it has evolved. In Lebanon, I was an active member of the Armenian General athletic Union, in addition to many cultural, youth and political organizations. I stayed true to my rooted values when I immigrated to the United States. I have served and continue to serve on boards of various charitable and educational organizations and institutions."

AS for the gala, the Honorable Consul Johnny Ibrahim of the Consulate General of Los Angeles has pledged to support the efforts of the LAF to make the gala a success. Consul Ibrahim and other dignitaries have been invited to attend the gala; a list of those planning to attend will be announced in March 2014.

In June 2012, the LAF purchased a building, located at 4800 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, Calif. The center officially opened its doors to the public in October 2013 but the building will be renovated to meet the LAF’s greater goals of offering educational and artistic workshops; a library and screening room for documentaries; a community room; and offices for the LAF and other non-profit organizations. Proceeds from the gala are expected to go toward the above-mentioned remodeling efforts.

The Beverly Hilton Hotel is located at 9876 Wilshire Boulevard, in Beverly Hills, Calif.

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