GLENDALE — The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California hosted the highly anticipated Horizon Gala on Saturday, May 11. The signature annual event, which supports the developing institution, drew a full house of supporters to the prestigious InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown.
The evening commenced with welcoming remarks by Master of Ceremonies Talin Yacoubian, who serves as the Board of Trustees co-treasurer for the museum representing Armenian General Benevolent Union Western Region.
“Let’s raise a glass to how far we have come and the glorious future that is waiting for us,” stated Yacoubian. “Together, let’s keep fueling this dream and watching it blossom into something truly extraordinary — a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. Cheers to our museum in making.”
The Horizon Award was presented to Michael A. Goorjian, an accomplished Armenian-American director, writer, and actor. He has starred in many films and television series with notable roles in “Leaving Las Vegas,” “SLC Punk,” “Party of Five,” “Illusion” and more. He won an Emmy Award for his role in the television movie “David’s Mother.” Most recently, Goorjian earned widespread acclaim as the director, writer and lead actor of “Amerikatsi,” a film of tremendous spirit and hope. In a historic first for Armenia, “Amerikatsi” was shortlisted in the category of Best International Film by the Academy Awards.
Board of Trustees representatives Zaven Khanjian representing the Armenian Missionary Association of America, Vicky Marashlian representing the Armenian Relief Society of Western USA, Garo Kupelian representing Nor Or Charitable Foundation, and Krikor Moloyan representing Nor Serount Cultural Association joined together on the stage to present the Horizon Award to the honoree of the evening.
“Michael A. Goorjian has beautifully captured the spirit of the Armenian people and homeland in ‘Amerikatsi’ and helped the community reach new heights through his contributions in film and television,” stated Board of Trustees representative Zaven Khanjian during his introduction of the honoree.
