Our Story
St. Vartan Camp was founded in 1979 with a bold vision: to create a summer home where Armenian youth could unplug, deepen their faith, connect to their heritage, and build friendships that last a lifetime. What began as a single week with a small group of campers has grown into a beloved institution that has shaped generations.
More than a camp, St. Vartan Camp is a living community rooted in faith, culture, leadership, and joy — a place where Armenian identity is celebrated and passed on, year after year.
Our Legacy
From its earliest days, St. Vartan Camp has been guided by visionary clergy, dedicated staff, and passionate volunteers who believed deeply in the power of youth ministry. Their leadership laid the spiritual, cultural, and educational foundation that continues to define the SVC experience today.
Through periods of growth, transition, and renewal, one truth has remained constant: camp is where faith becomes alive and community becomes family.
1979
The Beginning
St. Vartan Camp is founded by the ACYOA Seniors and held at AGBU Camp Nubar. The first session lasts one week and welcomes a small but passionate group of campers.
1980
A Vision Takes Shape
The late Rev. Fr. Paree Metjian becomes the camp’s first official director. His passion and leadership ignite the spirit that still defines SVC.
1984
Program Foundations
Nancy Basmajian serves as Program Director, shaping the educational and cultural framework that becomes central to camp life. A positions she held all the way until 1997.
1988
Growth & Expansion
Camp transitions from Canterbury School to Loomis Chaffee and beloved traditions begin to form.
1991
New Leadership
After a decade of leadership by Rev. Fr. Paree Metjian, the torch passes to a new generation of dedicated staff.
1996
The Marvelwood era Begins
Rev. Fr. Vasken Kouzouian, Yn. Arpi Kouzouian and Fr. Arakel Aljalian lead St. Vartan Camp through its most transformative period, with camp now located at the Marvelwood school. Expanded programs, staff development, and modernization elevate SVC to new heights.
2000
A new session is added
With interest now exceeding capacity, camp expands to four weeks with two sessions.
2004
A Permanent Home
St. Vartan Camp establishes its long-term home at the Ararat Center in Greenville, NY — the setting for countless traditions, memories, and milestones.
2006
Ararat Center Growth
Rev. Fr. Krikor Sabounjian serves as director for eight successful years, ensuring continuity, growth, and stability. He continued the excellence of the Kouzouian’s, with steady growth year after year.
2014
Spiritual Leadership
Clergy including Rev. Fr. Khatchatur Kesablyan and Rev. Fr. Vart Gyozalyan strengthen the spiritual life of camp and continue to serve on the Executive Board.
2022
Catholicos Visits Camp
His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, paid a surprise visit to camp during session B. This transformed a typical day at camp into a profound, once in a lifetime experience for our campers and staff.
2025
The leadership Board is formed
St. Vartan Camp forms its first-ever Leadership Board, comprised of five alumni dedicated to advancing the camp’s mission and securing its future.
Today
A New Chapter
Under the guidance of His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, St. Vartan Camp continues to flourish with renewed energy, vision, and purpose.
Our Future
With a strong foundation and an energized leadership team, St. Vartan Camp looks ahead with confidence. The mission remains clear: to inspire young Armenians, nurture faith and leadership, and preserve a legacy that continues to grow with each new generation.
