C. & E. Merdinian Evangelical School Announces Departure of Dr. Souzy Ohanian and Appointment of Mrs. Shogher Shanoian to Interim Principal
June 13, 2024 – Sherman Oaks, CA – Dr. Souzy Ohanian, principal of Charlotte and Elise Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School, will be stepping down from her position and returning to Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, where she will assume the role of principal. Dr. Ohanian generously served Merdinian School for the past two years during a critical time in the school’s history—helping nearly double enrollment, leading the renewal of its WASC accreditation, enriching the curriculum, developing a strong administrative team, and setting Merdinian up for success for years to come. Dr. Ohanian will conclude her term on June 30, 2024.
“Serving as the principal these past two years has been a gratifying experience filled with numerous achievements and unforgettable moments with my students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Ohanian in a statement to Merdinian faculty and staff. “I am confident Merdinian will continue to thrive in the days and years to come.”
In a unanimous decision at a special board meeting held June 12, 2024, the Merdinian Board of Directors appointed the current director of student affairs, Mrs. Shogher Shanoian, as interim principal to begin serving in her new role on July 1, 2024. Mrs. Shanoian is a dedicated member of the Armenian evangelical community and has held numerous leadership positions at Merdinian for over seven years. Her commitment to Merdinian spans decades, as she is an alumna, the parent of an alumnus and two current students.
Mrs. Shanoian holds a master of science in education from California Baptist University and a bachelor of science in business administration, management, and organization from California State University, Fresno. The Board of Directors, Dr. Ohanian, and the administration are extremely confident that with the collaboration of parents, faculty, and the school board, Mrs. Shanoian will continue to uphold the mission of Merdinian and advance the school's vision for years to come.
“We are extremely grateful for Dr. Ohanian’s visionary leadership,” said Nerses Aposhian, board chairman at Merdinian School. “I speak for the entire Merdinian community when I say she has brought our school to new heights. We look forward to continuing her work alongside Mrs. Shanoian to ensure a smooth transition. Mrs. Shanoian and her administrative team will build on the work accomplished in the last two years, including advancing Merdinian’s curriculum, developing the teaching staff, improving facilities, and growing our school. She has been a steadfast advocate for our students and faculty and demonstrated a lifelong passion for Christian Armenian education. We are enthusiastic and eager for her to enter this new leadership position.”
About C. & E. Merdinian Evangelical School
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA, the C. & E. Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School is committed to providing an academically and spiritually invigorating education for its entire preschool through 8th grade student body in a safe, caring, and nurturing environment. Since 1982, the school has prepared its graduates to become responsible American citizens and future leaders of the community, firm in their Christian beliefs and proud of their Armenian heritage. Merdinian School has been fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) since 1999.
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