Barger Honors Community Members as Armenian History Month Ends in L.A. County

Supervisor Kathryn Barger on Tuesday honored three individuals of Armenian heritage on the final day of Armenian History Month in Los Angeles County.

The honors were bestowed in the Board of Supervisors’ hearing room before the Board delved into public policy discussions. “Just as we commemorated the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide this month, we must also take time to recognize the vibrant culture and contributions of our fellow Armenian neighbors, community members and leaders,” said Supervisor Barger. “We are fortunate to have the Armenian spirit alive and thriving in Los Angeles County.”

Those honored included a diverse range of individuals in background and achievements.

Nyree Derderian, a native of Pasadena, for nearly 30 years has fulfilled pivotal roles on the Central Executive Board of the Armenian Relief Society. She has served as Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, overseeing humanitarian efforts during critical times. In April 2022, she visited Artsakh to provide aid to victims of the 44-day war and initiated a sustainable project for the residents of Artsakh. In November 2022, she traveled to Lebanon to deliver aid to those affected by the Lebanon blast of August 2020 and the ensuing economic crisis.

Dr. Vartan Tachjdian is founder of the Byblos Babies Center and co-founder of the Armenian Medical World Congress. Born to Armenian genocide survivors in a Beirut refugee camp, Dr. Tachdjian eventually relocated to Los Angeles amidst a civil war. As medical director of homeless programs and a consultant for Doctors Without Borders, Vartan exemplifies a lifelong commitment to humanitarian work. Now 90 years old, Dr. Tachdjian is also a poet and writer, sharing his experiences and insights to inspire others.

Talin Yacoubian holds key positions on the boards of the Armenian Assembly of America, Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center, and Armenia Fund. Her leadership roles include serving as former Chair of the AGBU Western District Committee and co-chair of the Armenian Genocide Centennial Commemorative Committee in 2015, where she organized the historic peaceful march of 160,000 people in Los Angeles on the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. With a background in law and economics, Talin also teaches Legal Writing and Advocacy at USC Gould School of Law.