Edgar Hagopian Feted as ‘Man of the Year’ by Detroit ADL and TCA Chapters

“He is with us and our prayers are with him, well represented by his daughters. Edgar Hagopian stands among other generous men who have contributed admirably to Detroit’s reputation. His generosity matches his wisdom and leadership skills. He is a political activist, benefactor, humanitarian and cultural icon, humble, knowing how to be on a level with everyone, standing tall. He projects the Armenian profile throughout the political scene in Michigan and beyond.”

Hagopian is a man of his word, nor does he mince them. For all his contributions, generosity and leadership we have today only a simple moment to present to him a symbol that says it all — our purest love, warmest respect and heartfelt wishes.

The celebration for “The Man of the Year” Edgar Hagopian was in the beautiful Cultural Hall of the Diocese’s St. John’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Southfield.

Those who have visited our area know this elegant hall adjoining the church comprises just one part of the complex serving the Armenian community. It is the signature gold-dome, a landmark piece of architecture harking back to cathedrals of ancient Armenia.

It was the perfect setting for Hagopian’s event, a man who should be called a prince among men. He would never approve of that title because Edgar Hagopian, unlike those who have become successful in business, remains an influential individual without actually wielding his power like an authoritarian. He does it with calm reason, not with a sword.

He is a visionary, whose biggest dream is to bridge the Armenian community in his lifetime, bring it closer together in the goal of unity.

The TCA and the ADL, plus their 175 guests, certainly paid tribute to Hagopian in the grand fashion which showed their love for this community leader.

The ambience of dimmed shimmering crystal chandeliers, white-linen-clad tables centered with tea lights and vases filled with branches creatively trimmed with sweets, was just the beginning of the pampering guests experienced all evening. An attentive wait staff served an especially thought-out, six- course menu featuring Armenian and international foods.

Fabulous dessert cakes were provided by Mr. and Mrs. Hassan Bahceli.

In the printed program forward, TCA Banquet Chairperson (as well as TCA chairwoman) Nora Azadian extended “a warm welcome to esteemed guests helping Armenia to survive by their attendance.” She stated the TCA’s project is education, sponsoring four schools in Armenia and one in Karabagh under the “Sponsor a Teacher” program, thus far providing $400,000 in total grants, including funds to deserving orphans to enroll in colleges or universities of higher learning.

Mistress of ceremonies, Diana Alexanian, graciously welcomed guests, thanking them for making the evening such a success. She followed by stating that The Tekeyan Cultural Association (TCA) was founded in 1947 and was named after the famous Armenian poet Vahan Tekeyan. “The group operates in 17 countries with its beginnings in the USA and has chapters worldwide. We support Armenian cultural and social centers, schools, weekly newspapers, radio and TV programs.”

Alexanian invited Darawi to bless the dinner. In his comments, Darawi acknowledged Hagopian’s many contributions and support of all Armenians and to him sent a special blessing of comfort and love.

A touch of class: strolling virtuoso violinist Henrik Karapetian provided background music for dining enjoyment.

An added attraction was the coffee cup reading by Vartoug Karadolian. A private booth was provided for those seeking to have their fortune read. She was a popular addition to an already successful event.

Lively, after-dinner dancing music was provided by popular, area violinist Harry Hovagimian and vocalist Marina.

It takes a lot of people to organize and pull off a successful event of this capacity. Mentioning just a few: program chairperson and ADL chairman, Hagop (Captain) Alexanian; Ara Belian, banquet chairperson. Special thanks should be given to the Gourmet Dinner Committee: Yeretzgin Roberta Kochakian, Dr. Nadya Sarafian, Nadya Vaporciyan, Zabel Belian, Marina Arakchyan and Nora Azadian. Karen Koundakjian masterfully fulfilled her role in the daunting task of maneuvering table reservations.

It’s true, just as Hagopian says in his trademark TV commercials, “Hagopian: to know us is to love us.” It is a family affair with all the family being involved in the business.

An evening of fashion stand outs knowing you can’t go wrong wearing black: youthful Zabel Belian in a smashing one piece black halter top gown, Shirley Sarkisian in a black suit trimmed with white and her signature big tortoise rimmed glasses, Diana Alexanian outstanding in a black pant suit with a touch of white looking glamorous with her perfectly coiffed silver-white hair, but again the show stealer for the money was the TCA matriarch Nora Azadian donning the design of a former painting artist student of hers, a Shant original, floor-length caftan, a black silhouette with side inserts of artfully cut colorful fabric inserts and gorgeous Egyptian jewelry, worthy of the Cairo Museum.

To their credit, all the men looked splendid in their suits and ties, a perfect compliment to the ladies on their arm.

Both Suzanne Hagopian and Angela Hagopian Snow were radiant and elegantly attired in their duties for their beloved father. Each guest was warmly greeted by them proving again there is no substitute for “undanegan gertitioun,” a proper upbringing in the home.

All of us extend to Sarah and Edgar Hagopian our thanks for a life-time of community service, leading the way on how to be exemplary citizens worthy of the work ethic they inherited from their immigrant parents in their love for their adopted home in America and their absolute love for all things Armenians.

Nothing more can be asked from any human being.