Los Angeles, CA – Karo Aydindzhyan is taking his interest in economics and translating it into helping bridge the markets of California and Armenia. As part of the 2007 Autumn Session of the Armenian National Committee-Western Region Internship-Externship Program, Aydindzhyan worked as an extern with the Foundation for Economic Development (FED). In this capacity he helped FED Executive Director, Johnny Nalbandian help promote the FED’s work. “After traveling to Armenia in 2005 and seeing the economic situation there I wanted to help improve the living standards and quality of life,” said Aydindzhyan. “Working with the ANC and the FED gave me the chance to help contribute to the economic growth and stability of Armenia,” he added.

A student at Glendale Community College, Aydindzhyan is double majoring in international business and accounting. His work with the FED has earned him the praise of Nalbandian. “I was thrilled to be working with a young and devoted gentlemen like Karo,” said Nalbandian. “He was a great asset helping ensure that the community was aware of the work the FED was doing and supporting our efforts to make a positive difference in the economies of California and Armenia.”

Established in June 2006, the ANC-WR IEP is a selective and intensive program that provides student leaders and activists with an opportunity to participate in an intensive internship designed to provide an in-depth introduction to Armenian American issues as well as advocacy efforts on the federal, state and local level. The program hosts spring, summer and autumn sessions. You can find more information about the IEP by visiting http://www.anca.org/gateway/gateway_overview.php. The Armenian National Committee – Western Region is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the Western United States and affiliated organizations around the country, the ANC-WR advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

Photo Caption: Aydindzhyan (second from left) with fellow ANC interns during a Marketing and Public Relations presentation by ANC-WR Board Member Pattyl Aposhian-Kasparian (right foreground).