June 25, 2026
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The Armenian International Women’s Association (AIWA) is thrilled and honored to announce the creation of the $40,000 Barbara Merguerian Endowed Scholarship Fund, generously created by Dr. Merguerian herself, a founding member of AIWA along with Eva Medzorian and the late Olga Proudian. This fund, with a clear preference for applicants pursuing studies in History and Armenian Studies, honors her enduring leadership, intellect, and tireless advocacy for women and the Armenian cause, and it embodies the spirit and vision she brought to AIWA from its inception.
Born in Providence, RI, and a graduate of Brown University and Harvard University, Dr. Merguerian began her career as an economic and political analyst and then became a journalist, first for the Patriot Ledger and then for the Armenian Mirror Spectator, where she was editor for many years. She has been at the forefront of Armenian studies and women’s studies for many decades through her activism and leadership at NAASR, the Armenian Studies Association, the Armenian Museum of America, and numerous other organizations, as well as through organizing and presenting at multiple workshops and conferences, and teaching at Yerevan State University, California State Fresno, and elsewhere.
Dr. Merguerian embodies the heart of AIWA: vision, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to empowering women to lead, shape diplomacy, and shape history. She is not only a distinguished scholar and historian but also a passionate advocate for women’s rights. Her work has consistently illuminated the Armenian narrative and advanced the rightful roles of women in leadership and public service. Barbara’s scholarship—grounded in rigorous research and a deep understanding of less visible qualities —will guide countless women toward higher achievement while highlighting the pivotal importance of preserving and broadcasting our histories.
“From the inception of the scholarship program, Barbara has tirelessly vetted scholars for grants and scholarships ensuring that the next generation has access to the resources they need to succeed,” said Silva Katchiguian, President of AIWA. “And now, this generous fund will support students who embody Barbara’s values of leadership, collaboration, and service to the Armenian community and beyond.”
Beyond her scholarly achievements, Barbara has been a devoted champion of translation and publication that brings pioneering Armenian women’s voices to light. She has shepherded the publication of numerous works by and about Armenian women, and her published research on missionary work in the Ottoman empire and afterwards highlights the contributions of women to the advancement of education in the Armenian community over the past two centuries. She has secured funding and fostered partnerships to translate and publish works by women whose contributions might otherwise be overlooked, reinforcing the transformative power of literature as a tool for empowerment. It is this lifelong dedication to history, literature, and the advancement of women that guides the Barbara Merguerian Endowed Scholarship’s mission and priorities.
In recognition of Barbara’s distinguished leadership and her unwavering belief in the power of education, the Barbara Merguerian Endowed Scholarship focused on History and Armenian Studies aligns with her own scholarly passions and her conviction that understanding our past is essential to shaping a more equitable and informed future. By supporting students in these fields, the scholarship seeks to cultivate historians, researchers, and advocates who will illuminate Armenian heritage, contribute to the broader academic discourse, and lead with integrity and compassion.
“Barbara’s leadership and example continue to inspire AIWA’s mission: to unite women from diverse backgrounds, amplify their voices, and effect lasting, positive change in our communities. The Barbara Merguerian Endowed Scholarship stands as a living tribute to her legacy—an enduring commitment to empowerment, unity, and the pursuit of knowledge,” said Katchiguian.
Dr. Merguerian’s testament to the power of literature and education reminds us that empowering the next generation of Armenian women is a collective responsibility. With gratitude for her foundational work and with optimism for the scholars to come, AIWA honors Barbara Merguerian by investing in history, Armenian studies, and the bright futures of those who will carry forward her legacy.
While her scholarship gift aims to support Armenian and women’s studies, she says, “I’m inspired to see Armenian women students majoring in a broad variety of fields. Armenian women still need support for their education–and a lot of other things besides!”
For inquiries about the Barbara J. Merguerian Endowed Scholarship, please contact AIWA’s scholarship committee at [email protected].
