My name is Shant Kevorkian, and I’m running for the Glendale Unified School District Board of Education because GUSD shaped who I am.

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I am the only candidate in this race who is a proud graduate of GUSD, and I’m committed to ensuring every student receives the same opportunities that helped me grow, succeed, and serve our community.

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GUSD AS MY FOUNDATION

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Education was not an option for many in my family. Fleeing war-torn Baghdad, Iraq, my family found refuge and stability in Glendale, where I was welcomed by GUSD educators who led with kindness and compassion.

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My journey in GUSD began in kindergarten with Ms. Janet Wells; first grade with Mr. Dawn Molzahn; second grade with Ms. Jane Bordy; third grade with Ms. April Bright; fourth grade with Ms. Phyllis Miller; fifth grade with Mr. Mike McGrath; and sixth grade with Ms. Lori Cassley. After elementary school, I attended Rosemont and Crescenta Valley High School, where I was taught by far too many outstanding educators to list. These teachers were more than instructors—they became family. Many remain part of my life today. Their patience, empathy, and dedication to service shaped my understanding of what it means to care for others, and I credit much of my success to their example.

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GUSD gave me the foundation and opportunities that ultimately led me to California State University, Northridge, and the University of Southern California.

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CARE FOR COMMUNITY

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With a strong background in healthcare, I proudly serve as an Administrative Resident with the executive team at CommonSpirit/Dignity Health Northridge Hospital. I earned my B.S. in Healthcare Administration with Honors from California State University, Northridge, and I am currently a Dean’s Merit Scholar and MHA candidate at USC. I am a committed advocate for social justice, access to quality healthcare, and educational equity.

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My professional journey—beginning as a 14-year-old volunteer at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital and Adventist Health Glendale, where I was born as a 1-pound premature baby—has always been centered on service. My first role was at Adventist Health Glendale, as the volunteer department leader, then, in medical education at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles with senior leaders and government affairs, all experiences that deepened my understanding of community needs, public systems, and the importance of advocating for those who rely on them.

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COMMITMENT TO OUR FAMILIES

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My commitment to public service extends beyond my career. I served as a Commissioner on the City of Glendale’s Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission; a Community Partner with the GUSD Office of the Superintendent; a member of the GUSD Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee; and the Founding Chair of the GUSD Alumni Association—an initiative I launched to reconnect graduates with our schools and build new pathways for mentorship, support, and investment.

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My desire to give back to GUSD began long before these roles. After graduating, I returned to the district with a deeper commitment to service, attending every school board meeting and working with major stakeholder groups—from teachers and staff to parents, students, and community partners.

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I also serve on the Boards of Directors for the Glendale Educational Foundation and the Character and Ethics Project, and I currently advise the GUSD Student Advisory Council. Throughout these roles, I have worked closely with students, families, educators, and community leaders to strengthen our schools and expand opportunities for student success.

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My dedication to service has been recognized through the KNX 1070 NewsRadio “Hero of the Week” Award, the Glendale Council PTA Honorary Service Award, and several community honors, including serving as Master of Ceremonies for CASPS (Committee for Armenian Students in Public Schools).