On July 9, RA Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan received Armenian American doctor Hovhannes (John) Ounjian.

Greeting the guest, the minister attached importance to the pro-national activities of Ounjian Charitable Foundation in Armenia and the Diaspora and particularly mentioned the following: “You have played a huge role in the contributions that have been made to the educational system in Armenia. Glory and honor to you! Education is the major weapon of our nation. We must present ourselves to the world with knowledge. Our ministry pays its respect to you.”

Praising Hovhannes (John) Ounjian’s charities and community service in Armenia and the Diaspora, as well as his contributions to the strengthening of relations between the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora and the development of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership, Minister of Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan granted the Boghos Nubar Medal of the RA Ministry of Diaspora. Expressing gratitude for the high award, Mr. Ounjian mentioned the following: “My desire is to see Armenia become stronger and more beautiful, as well as to see people find jobs and stay in the country,” Ounjian said, adding: “I have always brought to Armenia whatever I have gained in medicine.”

Hovhannes Ounjian was born in 1922 in Istanbul. He has served his people as a national benefactor for many years.

John Ounjian’s financial assistance helped renovate secondary school N 21 in Gyumri and turn it into the Ounjian Educational Complex. The benefactor also helps high school graduates receive a higher education. Through his financial assistance, hundreds of alumni have already received a higher education.

The Varduhi Art School will soon open in Gyumri. The three-story building has all the accommodations to provide the children of Gyumri with a free education and provide them with an aesthetic education at a high level.

Overall, the benefactor has already made $6 million dollars in investments in Armenia.

Hovhannes (John) Ounjian is a Honorary Citizen of Gyumri, was granted the Mkhitar Heratsi Medal in 2000, as well as the “Second Degree Medal for Services Provided to the Homeland” and the Commemorative Medal of the RA Prime Minister in 2011.