Remembering Zaven Khanjian: A Life of Service, Leadership, and Love

Zaven was born and raised in Aleppo, Syria in 1944. His early years were shaped by a deep-rooted connection to his heritage and a passion for positively impacting those around him. After completing his education from Aleppo College, he attended the American University of Beirut in Lebanon, and later pursued a career that spanned various industries, but it was his work with the Armenian Evangelical community and his role as the executive director/CEO of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) since 2014, and before that, the chairman of the Board of Directors at our beloved C. & E. Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School, that truly defined his life’s mission.

Zaven’s leadership was not limited to his professional endeavors. He was a pillar of strength in his personal life, always extending a helping hand and offering wise counsel to those in need. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched everyone he encountered, making him a friend and mentor to many.

In addition to his community work, Zaven was a man of deep faith, and his spiritual beliefs guided his actions throughout his life. His commitment to his faith was evident in his involvement with the United Armenian Congregational Church, where he served in various capacities, including as a deacon and board member; Haigazian University in Beirut, Lebanon; and many others.

 
Merdinian board chair Nerses Aposhian said, “The loss of Zaven Khanjian is big for the Merdinian community and the Armenian Evangelical community he served worldwide. Zaven was Merdinian's board chair while I was a student. Years later, when I joined the board, we reconnected several times and shared many wonderful conversations about the Merdinian and AMAA partnership, our current successes, and what we hope to achieve in the future for decades to come. I vividly recall our recent conversation at the most recent Merdinian Gala in 2024, where Zaven spoke about the significance of passing the torch from his generation to mine and expressed his pride in how far Merdinian has come. He also spoke about a dream that he and my late grandfather and former Merdinian principal, Aram Boolghoorjian, shared—the dream of establishing a Merdinian high school.”

Interim principal Shogher Shanoian said, “One of the pillars of Merdinian—and one of our original members—was Mr. Khanjian. From the beginning of Merdinian's founding years, Mr. Khanjian was a member of the first board of directors and the organizing committee who dreamt of establishing the first Armenian Evangelical school in the United States. He significantly enhanced the school community and was instrumental in guiding its growth. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to the school will be remembered and cherished by all who worked with him. Upon my assignment as Interim Principal, Mr. Khanjian extended his congratulatory message stating that Merdinian school was in good hands. He continued by saying that he prayed for God to guide me and our school as I assume this "precious responsibility.” Along with his wife, Sona, he always made a point to encourage my service and ministry at Merdinian. My sympathies go out to his family and the whole evangelical community as we grieve this significant loss.

Zaven is survived by his loving wife, Sona; his children, Vasken, Hrag, and Vana; and his six grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of his life. He was a devoted family man who always put the needs of his loved ones first. His guidance, love, and unwavering support will be deeply missed.

Zaven’s legacy of service, leadership, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His memory will be a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege of crossing his path. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Details of a memorial service will be shared as they are made available.