Once the birds start singing, the lawn sprinklers boost the mood, and the campus greenery is in its full blossom, we know that the end of the academic year is here, commencement is coming up, and the AUBG staff is about to go back to the traditional tranquility on campus.
In the last week of the academic year where almost everything is all about commencement, there was yet one more moment where we reminded ourselves what stands behind the AUBG community. The people who are building not just an institution that has been growing for 35 years but a safe space for growth and care.
On May 12, AUBG honored its staff members who have are celebrating their five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 years of service in the university during the 2026 calendar year. It was inspiring to hear the names of the 40 people have been creating the community spirit.
“We are happy to continue this tradition of recognition and to honor the professionalism and impact of our colleagues,” said Anna Spasova, Chair of Staff Council.
Each one of the staff members plays a role in the life of the university. Apart from the daily work, they are the people who follow how students grow, overcome challenges, and create their success. This was reinforced by the words of the Student Government President Mariam Arakelyan.
“We come as kids who have never been apart from their families and homes, eager to explore the world of the adults and uncertainty that comes with it. You are the people who welcome us – with a smile, endless patience and lots of care. You make this transition easier. In all you, do we can feel the love and devotion you put in your work… Thank you for holding our hands while growing here.”
It was indeed a day of recognition and gratitude towards the people who make this instituition blossom.
“The word community is one we use a lot, sometimes easily,” said Provost & Interim President Dr. JD Mininger. “We have many opportunities how not to take this word for granted. To call ourselves a caring community is not something we should take lightly, it is one that we should earn together. It is especially important when we gather to celebrate a group of staff members who care truly about what they do.”
Just as the word community meant deeply, the words of the day were “Thank you”.
With appreciation to the AUBG staff members who have left their mark in the building of the beloved AUBG community.
