St. Nersess Seminary Expands Staff

Over the past few months, St. Nersess Armenian Seminary has not only grown physically with its new campus, but also in scope: the seminary’s expansion of mission has led to the hiring of additional professionals to support its progress. With construction on the new theological center and chapel almost complete, the St. Nersess Board of Directors has approved the addition of a new controller, administrative assistant, and a development director. “We have hired experienced and credentialed individuals to help take the seminary to new heights,” explains Richard Papalian, Board of Directors Treasurer.

Robin Perlmutter, who was recently hired as the new controller, has over 15 years of accounting experience in both the public and private sector and brings her expertise to help fulfill the mission of St. Nersess Seminary. “I look forward to working closely with the wonderful leaders and staff to further support and enhance the operations,” commented Robin.

Dorothy Bengoian, the new administrative assistant, is enthusiastic about joining the staff at St. Nersess. “It has been an encouraging start to work with the dean, Fr. Mardiros Chevian and other staff, as well as to interact with the seminarians. My career, as both a teacher and motivational speaker, has always been not only work, but an opportunity to contribute in a lasting and meaningful way – I believe my work at St. Nersess will be an extension of this. Similarly, my lifelong involvement and active participation in the greater Armenian community is an integral part of my life. I think my late father, Siragan Bengoian, a Genocide survivor, would be happy to know I am part of investing in our Armenian community’s future through my involvement at St. Nersess Armenian Seminary,” remarked Dorothy.

The new staff joins Dn. Levon Altiparmakian, Operations Manager, and Donna Sirounian, Marketing and Public Relations Manager. Dn. Levon began working at St. Nersess in 2006 and now manages the day to day operations of the seminary. He handled the transition of relocating the seminary from New Rochelle to Armonk, New York and is a key employee with his first-hand knowledge of the Armenian Church and community. Donna Sirounian, who holds an MBA, has been supporting the seminary since 2012 with her 21 years of marketing experience. Michelle Gonzalez, who gave over 10 years of dedicated service to the seminary, left her position in January.

Fr. Mardiros Chevian feels the formation of a dynamic, professional team will “further energize the mission of our seminary and will provide greater possibilities to expand our reach and programming.” All three new employees will be working part-time at the seminary.