California State University Northridge
June 11, 2022
2022 being the 30th anniversary of its founding, the ARPA Institute organized a one-day
public conference on education, science, technology and healthcare and their impact on
socio-economic wellbeing and political perspectives. The program is intended to promote
public participation and dialogue.
Desired Impact
The ARPA Institute Board of Directors believe that this event will be an impactful public
learning experience that will offer the participants opportunities to draw upon the
methods and insights of these important subjects, as well as foster greater
understanding among people. ARPA Institute also invited experts from Armenia to
connect with their peers in California and promote better understanding of one another,
appreciation of shared heritage of diverse cultures, for a more tolerant development of
society. The content of the conference program, formulated by the 30th Anniversary
Committee was tailored to promote wide public participation and encourage interactions
between different communities, for potential collaboration between institutions and
organizations.
The fundamental objective was to relate histories, experiences and/or contemporary
issues of concern to the Armenian community in California, promote discussion of ideas
and different points of view and deeper understanding of culture heritage and history, as
well as encourage critical thinking and analysis,
The Conference was a forum for dialogue to smooth diversity of views about topics of
common interest, as well as a means for intergenerational discussions to inspire the new
generation to learn more about history and cultural heritage.
Our surveys from similar events organized in the past have the organization members
convinced that the impact will be positive, both in terms of education and constructive
dialogue amongst people of similar heritage but diverse lifestyles and social
environments.
The ARPA Institute always tries to offer participants opportunities to draw upon the new
methods and approaches to solving inter-societal problems for greater understanding
among people and concentrate on thoughtful reflection on important topics. The idea is
to create links between one another to understand our shared heritage and diverse
cultures, inspire civic participation, and shape a better future.
The ARPA Institute 30th Anniversary program has a special focus on expanding public
participation and reducing social and artificial barriers. Moreover, connecting Armenians
in Armenia and those in California will invite collaboration between the two countries that
may enhance social and political discourse as well as bring about economic benefits.