Clark’s auditeria was bustling with parents, students and faculty on Feb. 27 in honor of the Founder’s Day Program. The day was created to celebrate the accomplishments of the association in helping create a voice for the student body. The evening was spent awarding students and faculty in recognition of talents and dedication.

PTSA President Lucy Petrossian spoke to attendees about the evening’s schedule. Shortly after, Honorary Service Awards, given by the California State PTA, were awarded to Amir Ghavam, Susan Newcomer, Chris Waltheim and Todd Black. During his speech, Ghavam spoke about his immigration to the United States in 1978, and his journey through the years. At the end of his speech Ghavam stated that he “wouldn’t be here without your great children.”

Saikiran Ramanan presented the Honorary Service Award to Todd Black, Mr. Black’s brother. Ramanan stated that Black has been “helping [students] since 2008, whether he was donating his time or tools.”

Math Teacher Fred Blattner awarded the Continuing Service Award to Gerald Gruss. “This is like Lex Luthor giving an award to Superman. He has been here for 25 years as a teacher of the Glendale Unified School District. He makes physics come to life for students,” Blattner said.

In addition, PTSA board member Eve Mekerdichian was thanked for all of her service during the four years she was a member. This is her last year as a PTSA member at Clark Magnet, as her son is graduating this year.

The event ended that evening with PTSA reflections awards given to finalists. Students awarded were Austin Trace Borusiewixz, for film production; Elizabeth Minasian, Megan Mirkhanian, and Vardui Grigoryan for visual arts; and Emmily Hovannisyan, Cynthia Babakhanian, Lauren Eby-McKenzie, and Shakeh Aslanyan for literature.