LOS ANGELES, CA – Sara Simounian recently joined the Armenian National Committee – Western Region’s Internship-Externship Program (ANC-WR IEP) as one of its newest interns this spring. As part of the program, Simounian will be specializing in Public and Media Relations. Only a few weeks into the program, Simounian has jumped into action assisting the ANC staff with several projects ranging from press releases to event promotion. “Through the program I am learning more about current issues dealing with Armenia and Armenian communities all over the world,” noted Simounian. “Though I am dealing with present community concerns, doing so has made me feel a greater appreciation for my heritage,” she added. Simounian is a third year student attending Crescenta Valley High School in Glendale. She intends to continue her academic studies at Glendale Community College before heading off to university. In addition to her projects, Simounian has also had the opportunity to learn more about the ANC as well as valuable work environment skills through the internship program’s lecture, workshop, and seminar series. Simounian learned about the internship program through her brother, an ANC-WR IEP alumnus. She had regularly volunteered for the ANC-WR in the past year and as soon as Simounian heard about the 2009 Spring Session of the internship program she quickly submitted her application. “One of the best things about this program is that I get to work with friends who feel just as strongly as me about making a positive difference in my community,” said Simounian. 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: Sara Simounian at ANC-WR offices.