With the blessing of Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan and the approval of the Diocesan Council, the Saint Vartan Camp Executive Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Zarouhi Vartanian-Hajinian, Pharm.D., MBA, CPPS, as the new Camp Director. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter in the continued growth, mission, and legacy of Saint Vartan Camp.
Following a thoughtful and comprehensive selection process, the Executive Board unanimously selected Dr. Vartanian-Hajinian for her clear vision, strong leadership experience, and deep commitment to faith-based youth formation. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation aligns closely with the mission and values that have shaped Saint Vartan Camp for decades. Members of the Board, including Der Hratch Sargsyan, who participated in the interview process, were particularly impressed by her insight, energy, and lifelong connection to the camp community.
This appointment reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening the camp’s future while remaining firmly rooted in its Armenian Christian identity. Speaking on behalf of the Executive Board, Ani Chamesian shared:
“Saint Vartan Camp has long been a place where lifelong friendships are formed and faith is nurtured through our Armenian heritage. I experienced this personally, having met my husband at camp. Dr. Vartanian-Hajinian’s deep love for camp and her passion for youth make her uniquely suited to lead Saint Vartan Camp into its next chapter.”
Born in Armenia and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island, Dr. Vartanian-Hajinian grew up immersed in Armenian School, Sunday School, and Saint Vartan Camp—experiences that instilled a lifelong love for faith, culture, and service to the Armenian Church. A licensed pharmacist and healthcare leader, she brings extensive experience in leadership, mentorship, program development, and team building, grounded in a collaborative and mission-driven approach.
An active member of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Armenian Church, Dr. Vartanian-Hajinian serves as the volunteer Parent Youth Director of the parish’s ACYOA chapter, where she revitalized a previously dormant program into a vibrant community engaging more than twenty youth through regular monthly activities. She is also actively involved in planning and supporting the upcoming ACYOA Juniors October Sports Weekend, ensuring youth programming remains rooted in faith, fellowship, and community.
Reflecting on her appointment, Dr. Vartanian-Hajinian shared:
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the trust placed in me. Saint Vartan Camp has played a meaningful role in my life, and as a devoted mother of a camper, I am committed to nurturing the next generation. I look forward to working alongside our Board, clergy, staff, alumni, and families to build upon the camp’s strong foundation of faith, service, and community.”
As Camp Administrative Director, Dr. Vartanian-Hajinian will oversee overall camp operations and the implementation of new and enriching programs, working closely with the clergy Spiritual Directors. Her focus will include enhancing the camper experience, supporting staff development, and strengthening community engagement, while remaining faithful to the spiritual and cultural values of Saint Vartan Camp.
She will also work in close partnership with the clergy representatives on the Executive Board, including Der Vart Gyozalyan and Der Khachatur Kesablyan, to guide, inspire, and lead the next generation through a dynamic and meaningful camp experience.
Additional details and upcoming initiatives will be shared in the weeks ahead.
Follow along at www.stvartancamp.org and @stvartancamp.