More than 1,000 donors, supporters, clergy, public officials and community leaders attended the Armenian American Museum Inaugural Gala on Dec. 9 in Hollywood. The Museum’s highly anticipated event was held at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood.

The inaugural gala honored the Glendale City Council for securing premier land for the landmark project as well as California State Senator Anthony J. Portantino, California State Senate President pro Tempore Emeritus Kevin de León, California State Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian, and California State Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon for securing major funding from the State of California. Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger also surprised the audience with a $1 million check presentation for the cultural and educational center.

Following a reception in the forecourt, the program began with the flag ceremony conducted by the Homenetmen Scouts and marching band followed by the national anthems performed by the Glendale High School choir led by director Grace Sheldon-William and the invocation conducted by Museum board of trustees co-chairs Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Bishop Mikael Mouradian, and Reverand Berdj Djambazian.

Fox 11 Morning News anchor/reporter Araksya Karapetyan served as the mistress of ceremonies for the evening. Karapetyan shared her personal story of immigrating to Southern California from Gyumri, Armenia and expressed her hope for what the Museum can accomplish for the next generation of children.

Museum Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian delivered the message from the Museum following a powerful video called “Nation of Builders” featuring the schools, churches, monuments and community centers built around the world by the Armenian Diaspora leading up to the Armenian American Museum project today.

“Thank you to our more than 1,000 esteemed guests and honorees for joining us at our inaugural gala and supporting the Armenian American Museum,” said Chairman Karapetian. “Just as our ancestors have done in the past, we will build a historic center with the community’s support that will serve generations to come.”

Learn more about the Armenian American Museum at www.ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org.