CHICAGO — The Chicago Affiliate of the Armenian International Women’s Association (AIWA) held its annual membership luncheon meeting on Saturday, June 16, at Maggiano’s Restaurant in downtown Chicago. The keynote speaker for the meeting was Oscar Tatosian, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia.
Greta Doumanian-Harley, who served as the mistress of ceremonies, welcomed Tatosian and the other 45 members and guests in attendance. To commence the meeting, Deacon Narek Garabedian sang the national anthems of the United States and Armenia, accompanied by Rebecca Boelzner on viola. Following the anthems, Father Tavit Boyajian of Saints Joachim and Anne Armenian Apostolic Church gave a blessing before lunch was served.
After lunch, Doumanian-Harley introduced AIWA Chicago President Shaghig Danielle Galian, who spoke about how she was inspired to join the organization after learning about AIWA’s programs in Armenia, particularly the Women’s Support Center, which offers services and support to victims of domestic violence. Galian introduced Tatosian, who discussed the Honorary Consulate in Chicago and its focus on promoting trade between Armenia and the United States in the following areas: agricultural products, technology, tourism and wine. Tatosian encouraged AIWA Chicago to set its priorities for the year ahead and reach out to the consulate in order to achieve shared goals. A lively and informative question-and-answer followed Tatosian’s presentation. At the conclusion of the program, Prof. Ann Lousin, a lifetime member of AIWA, presented Tatosian with a book about ancient Armenia on behalf of the Chicago Affiliate.
AIWA Chicago’s luncheon resulted in the addition of 14 new members. The AIWA Chicago Affiliate was founded in October 2012 by lifetime member Sonya Doumanian, who gathered several young professional women in her home to launch the new group.
For more information about AIWA, visit aiwainternational.org.