Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, an evening dedicated to honoring the life, service, and enduring legacy of former California Governor George Deukmejian was held at the Zorayan Museum of St. Leon (Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral on Thursday, June 4, 2026. The special gathering brought together more than 150 invited guests, including members of the judiciary, public officials, civic leaders, community benefactors, and distinguished guests, for the opening of the Governor George Deukmejian Exhibition and the official launch of the Governor George Deukmejian Scholarship Fund.
Mrs. Gloria Deukmejian and her two daughters, Leslie and Andrea were in attendance, lending a deeply personal dimension to the celebration.
The evening served as a fitting tribute to one of California’s most respected statesmen, whose decades of public service left an indelible mark on the state and whose Armenian heritage remained a source of pride throughout his life. Guests were welcomed into the museum where a carefully curated exhibition showcased historic photographs, official documents, personal memorabilia, and artifacts highlighting Governor Deukmejian’s remarkable career as California’s 35th Governor, as well as his devotion to family, faith, and community.
Serving as Master of Ceremonies was Z. Greg Kahwajian, who worked for a decade on Governor Deukmejian’s political campaigns, inaugural committees and throughout his eight years as governor. In his opening remarks, Kahwajian reflected upon Governor Deukmejian’s remarkable career in public service and the opportunities he created for others to serve.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, who reflected upon Governor Deukmejian’s extraordinary legacy and the enduring values that shaped his life and leadership.
“Tonight, we gather with hearts filled with gratitude and admiration as we honor the enduring legacy of Governor George Deukmejian — a devoted public servant, a principled leader, and a proud son of the Armenian people whose life continues to inspire generations,” stated Archbishop Derderian. “Governor Deukmejian’s legacy is not merely written in the pages of California’s history, but engraved in the lives of countless individuals who benefited from his wisdom, integrity, and steadfast commitment to the common good. Amid remarkable gubernatorial accomplishments, Governor Deukmejian never lost the humility, grace, and moral clarity that defined his character. He never forgot his roots, his heritage, or the values instilled within him by his family and faith.”
A significant highlight of the evening was the official launch of the Governor George Deukmejian Scholarship Fund, established to provide additional financial resources for promising students and to help cultivate future generations of ethical and dedicated leaders. Archbishop Derderian also expressed his appreciation to the host committee under the guidance of Mr. Z. Greg Kahwajian, the members of the Honorary Committee and all donors and supporters of the Fund.
The Scholarship Fund’s goals and mission were outlined by Maria Mehranian, President of Armenia Fund and member of the Host Committee, who emphasized the transformative impact the scholarships will have on aspiring young leaders.
“The Governor George Deukmejian Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of California's 35th governor by supporting students who demonstrate integrity, leadership, and a commitment to public service,” said Mehranian. “The fund uplifts young people pursuing careers in law, public policy, community leadership, and civic engagement—fields that reflect Governor Deukmejian's lifelong dedication to justice and responsible governance.”
Guests were also treated to a special video presentation chronicling Governor Deukmejian’s distinguished public career. In Governor Deukmejian’s own words, the presentation, using archived footage from various interviews, highlighted his goals and accomplishments as Governor, Attorney General, and public servant.
Among the featured speakers was the Honorable Marvin Baxter, former Associate Justice of the California Supreme Court, who shared reflections on Governor Deukmejian’s leadership and friendship. Justice Baxter noted that Governor Deukmejian’s appointment of qualified and principled jurists helped shape California’s judicial system for generations and demonstrated his profound respect for the rule of law.
The emotional highlight of the evening came with remarks delivered by former First Lady of California, Mrs. Gloria Deukmejian. Speaking with warmth and gratitude, Mrs. Deukmejian thanked the Western Diocese, the Host Committee, and all those in attendance for preserving and celebrating the memory of her beloved husband. Her heartfelt reflections offered a moving portrait of Governor Deukmejian not only as a statesman but also as a devoted family man whose values of faith, humility, and service guided every aspect of his life.
Donated by Mrs. Taline Berksanlar, as a commemorative keepsake, guests received a specially designed souvenir paperweight bearing the gubernatorial seal of Governor George Deukmejian, symbolizing the lasting impact of his public service and leadership.
Following the formal program, attendees gathered for a reception while touring the exhibition. Guests viewed the extensive collection of photographs, gubernatorial artifacts, official memorabilia, and historical displays that chronicled Governor Deukmejian’s extraordinary journey from the son of Armenian immigrants to one of California’s most influential leaders.
The evening stood as a powerful testament to Governor George Deukmejian’s enduring legacy—one rooted in integrity, public service, and unwavering commitment to the common good. Through the establishment of the scholarship fund and the preservation of his historical legacy through the exhibition, future generations will continue to draw inspiration from a leader whose life exemplified the highest ideals of civic responsibility, moral courage, and faithful stewardship.
