After years of leading the development of UWC Dilijan and serving as Chair of the Board since the establishment of the Dilijan International School of Armenia Foundation (DISA) in 2012, Co-Founder Veronika Zonabend has resigned from her role as Chair.

In recognition of her exceptional contribution, the Board of Governors has formally conferred upon her the title of Chair Emerita. While Veronika will step away from her ongoing duties as Chair, she will continue to be involved with the school in her capacity as Co-Founder.

Elisabet Engellau and Alice Petrossian, both of whom bring distinguished experience in education and institutional development, have been serving as Governors for a number of years and have been appointed as Co-Chairs of the Board of Governors. Together, they will lead UWC Dilijan through its next stage of development as the school reflects on its strategic priorities following the celebration of the 10th anniversary since opening in 2014.

 

 L-R Elisabet Engellau and Alice Petrossian with Hakob Sarkissian

UWC Dilijan was established by and is governed under the terms of the Dilijan International School of Armenia Foundation (DISA). DISA is a non-commercial legal entity established and registered in accordance with the Foundation Law of the Republic of Armenia. The governing body of the school is the Board of Governors. 

The Board of Governors is the highest governing and supervisory body of DISA and holds collective and ultimate responsibility for approving the College’s strategy, as well as overseeing its academic, legal, fiduciary, and financial affairs. The Board consists of up to 15 members, meets at least three times a year, approves the College budget, and appoints the Head. 

Veronika Zonabend, UWC Dilijan Co-Founder, said, "Establishing and developing UWC Dilijan has been both the most challenging and the most rewarding experience that Ruben and I have undertaken. We believe deeply in the power of education and in the importance of bringing young people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and geographies together to study in Dilijan as a meaningful contribution to peace and a sustainable future. As Nelson Mandela, former President of the United World Colleges movement, once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” I remain fully committed to this belief and to UWC Dilijan in my role as Co-Founder and Chair Emerita.”      

Veronika Zonabend, UWCD Co-Founder 

In a joint statement on their appointment Elisabet Engellau and Alice Petrossian stressed the following, “We are honoured to take on the role of Co-Chairs at this important moment for UWC Dilijan. Building on the remarkable foundation established by the school’s founders and Board, we are committed to supporting UWC Dilijan’s mission, strengthening its long-term sustainability, and guiding its strategic development in service of its students and the wider UWC movement.”