George Aghjayan Named New Chairman of Armenian National Committee of America

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has announced that longtime Armenian American activist and grassroots leader George Aghjayan will take on the role of national chairman. His appointment is a significant moment in the organization’s ongoing efforts to advocate for the Armenian cause in U.S. policy and politics.

Aghjayan, a veteran activist, expressed his deep honor in assuming the position, emphasizing the importance of ANCA’s work during a crucial period for Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).

“Our work is more vital than ever as we fight to secure justice for Artsakh’s displaced Armenians, hold Azerbaijan accountable for its crimes, and ensure the long-term security and viability of Armenia,” Aghjayan stated. “The ANCA has always been the most effective voice for Armenian Americans in U.S. policy and politics, and I look forward to working with our local chapters, grassroots advocates, and dedicated leadership team to expand our influence and advance our common cause.”

Aghjayan succeeds Raffi Hamparian, who has led the ANCA with dedication and strategic vision. Under Hamparian’s leadership, ANCA expanded its influence on Capitol Hill, mobilized grassroots activism, and built coalitions with policy advocates across the United States. His tenure saw increased bipartisan support for Armenian interests, particularly in efforts to safeguard Armenia and demand justice for Artsakh.

One of Hamparian’s major achievements was expanding ANCA’s youth empowerment programs in Washington, D.C., and nationwide. His efforts strengthened ANCA’s commitment to mentoring the next generation of Armenian American leaders, ensuring they have the skills and connections to advocate effectively.

Hamparian expressed confidence in Aghjayan’s leadership, stating, “Serving as ANCA’s national chairman has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Our work is not just about policy—it is about the survival and dignity of the Armenian people. George is a lifelong advocate with a deep commitment to our cause, and I know he will lead with purpose, passion, and perseverance.”

Aghjayan has been an active leader within the ANC of Central Massachusetts, playing a key role in advancing Armenian American advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels. As chair of the ANC of Central Massachusetts, he worked tirelessly to engage the Armenian community, mobilize grassroots efforts, and build relationships with elected officials. His commitment extended beyond Massachusetts, with contributions to national and regional efforts through his longtime service on the ARF Eastern U.S. Central Committee.

Born and raised in Rhode Island, Aghjayan holds a degree in Actuarial Mathematics from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and became a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries in 1996. After a successful career in finance and insurance, he retired in 2014 to focus on Armenian historical research and advocacy.

Beyond political advocacy, Aghjayan has been actively involved in Armenian cultural and historical preservation. He has served as a delegate to the National Representative Assembly of the Eastern U.S. Armenian Prelacy, a member of the Board of Trustees at Worcester’s Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, and an organizer of five Armenian genealogy conferences. His passion for Armenian heritage led him to create and host Hye Roots: Descendants of Ararat, the first program dedicated to Armenian genealogy. 

Aghjayan assumes leadership at a time when the ANCA is intensifying its advocacy efforts to enforce Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act, which restricts U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan in response to its continued aggression against Armenia and the Artsakh genocide. The organization is also pushing for Magnitsky Act sanctions against Azerbaijani officials responsible for war crimes and human rights abuses, while calling for the immediate release of Armenian prisoners of war and political detainees held in Azerbaijan.

A central focus of ANCA’s mission is securing the safe return of over 150,000 displaced Armenians from Artsakh, obtaining substantial U.S. humanitarian assistance for refugees, and defending Armenia’s sovereignty against ongoing threats. The organization also seeks to protect vulnerable minority communities, including Armenians and Christians in Syria, from persecution and forced displacement.

As ANCA’s national chairman, Aghjayan will work closely with the ANCA National Board, the ANCA Western and Eastern Region leadership, and more than 50 local chapters across the United States. With over 100,000 active ANCA advocates, he aims to strengthen Armenian American political influence and advance critical priorities for the community.

His leadership comes at a time when Armenian advocacy efforts require strong and effective representation. As the Armenian people face continued challenges, Aghjayan’s expertise, dedication, and vision will help shape ANCA’s role in ensuring a secure future for Armenia and Artsakh.