AUA CENTER OPENS ITS DOORS FOR BUSINESS

While the American University of Armenia (AUA) will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its establishment this year, it will also mark the much-awaited official opening of the AUA Center. During the past 10 years, AUA has focused on the continuous development of its academic programs and research activities. In 1996, it was faced with the need for new and expanded facilities to fulfill its educational mission and to create a revenue-generating source for its development. Thus, the concept of constructing the AUA Center, a multi-purpose educational and business facility, was cultivated.

Located in central Yerevan, the AUA Center is a 5-story building totaling 7, 800 square meters. This multi-purpose educational and business facility is presently the most modern business and conference facility in Armenia. The AUA Center is designed to withstand an earthquake of 9 degrees on the Richter scale; it is built according to the Unified Building Code. It will enable AUA to host large meetings and conferences as well as house a number of activities of its research and development centers. Designed by a joint team of American and Armenian architects, AUA Center offers the comfort and convenience required by international businesspeople. It is equipped with the latest communications technology with dedicated T1/E1 high-speed data/voice communication lines through a PBX system with voice mail capability. Conference facilities are designed to include numerous meeting rooms, a 300-person auditorium, a complete selection of audio-visual equipment, a restaurant and retail space designed to provide adequate accommodations for business meetings and conferences.

Developed under the leadership of AUA’s Founding President, Dr. Mihran Agbabian, this facility will help extend AUA beyond the walls of the Bagramian building. Under the direction of project manager, Michael Kouchakdjian, a small construction team was assembled to carry out the project. Later in 1999, this work was continued by one of the team members, Mnatsakan Mkrtchian. The total cost for the construction of the AUA Center amounted to $5.7 million at the end of the year 2000. This amount includes the architectural and construction expenses, equipment, furnishings and start-up expenses. The building was developed with generous contributions from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Mrs. Louise Manoogian Simone, and the Shishmanian family.

The commercial wing of the Center opened its doors to the business community in January 2001. The modern spacious office suites have been individually tailored to the tenants’ needs and specifications. The official opening of the Center will take place in the Fall of 2001. While providing support to the research and business community, the AUA Center will also provide employment opportunities for its own students and graduates.