SOAR - Rocky Mountains Chapter
P.O Box 350032
Westminster, CO 80035-0032
The Rocky Mountains chapter joined the SOAR family in October 2012, and is committed to upholding SOAR’s vision to provide orphaned Armenians with resources fundamental to their physical, emotional, and intellectual development.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Zhanna Poghosyan
President
Zhanna Poghosyan is a senior at the University of Colorado Boulder pursuing a degree in International Business Management with a focus in political and legal studies. Born in Yerevan, Armenia, and raised in Colorado since 2010, Zhanna has been actively involved in the Armenian community for over 15 years.
At CU Boulder, she co-founded the first Armenian Student Association in the state of Colorado, creating a space for cultural connection, student leadership, and community advocacy. Beyond campus, she has contributed to numerous cultural events, youth initiatives, and community programs that strengthen Armenian identity and visibility in Colorado.
With academic interests in global markets, political risk, and international law, she strives to bring a unique perspective to the board by combining business knowledge with cultural and civic engagement. She aspires to continue bridging communities and pursuing opportunities in international business, leadership, and policy.
Fluent in both Armenian and English, Zhanna is committed to advancing cross-cultural understanding and strengthening ties between the Armenian diaspora and broader global networks.
Marine Sargsyan
Vice President
Pic and Bio coming soon
Hannah Grabill
Hannah Grabill is a proud half Armenian on her mother’s side and currently resides in Colorado Springs, CO with her husband. She graduated from College of the Ozarks in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in public relations and minoring in business administration. Hannah currently works as a Senior Engagement Specialist for Legends Hospitality where she fundraises for the Air Force Academy Foundation
Michael Hansard
Michael brings over two decades of expertise in sales, marketing, and logistics across diverse industries. A proud alumnus of the University of Texas at Arlington with a BS in Marketing, he is seeking his Master of Science in Business Analytics.
Nurtured by parents who embodied generosity and empathy, Michael imbibed the spirit of volunteerism from a young age. This foundation has led him to commit his time passionately to causes close to his heart. Besides contributing to SOAR, Michael also dedicates his time to tutoring math to elementary and middle school students through CABPES (Colorado Association of Black Professional Engineers and Scientists). Whether it’s helping students, family, friends, or neighbors, Michael never misses a chance to extend a helping hand.
On a personal note, Michael cherishes every moment spent with his family, including his wife and daughter. Through his wife’s Armenian heritage, Michael has discovered a deep-rooted passion for supporting the Armenian community. Thanks to his wife and her family’s enthusiastic introductions, he frequently delves into the rich tapestry of Armenian culture and cuisine.
Natela Manuntseva
Natela Manuntseva is a professional with exceptional leadership and relationship-building abilities. She has diverse skills and experience in business development, community outreach, and project management. Natela has a proven track record of success in various roles. Natela currently participates in non-profit organizations to increase awareness, and beyond her professional endeavors, Natela is deeply committed to volunteer work and community engagement. She has served on the executive boards of CARA, GlobalMindED, CABPES, and the Central City Opera Guild. Natela holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Communications from Metropolitan State University of Denver.
Lilit Yeghishyan
Born and raised in Gyumri Armenia, Lilit moved to the United States in 2009 to join her husband with 2 baby girls, welcomed another girl to the family in 2010, and now raising 3 daughters (Heghine 17, Jemma 16, and Maneh 14) in the beautiful city of Colorado Springs, CO.
She has graduated with honors from International Academy of Business in Gyumri, with BS in Jurisprudence. After moving to the US, she went back to school to obtain Certification in Accounting and is now working as a Project Controls Specialist at a major international engineering company. Prior to this role she supported US DoD/Missile Defense Agency as a Financial/Earned Value Analyst.
All her free time is dedicated to her family, and hobby – painting. For Lilit, passing down the culture and traditions to the younger generation and speaking the native language in the family, are extremely important. During a period spent in California, she volunteered to open an Armenian language and literature class adjacent to St. Kevork Church in Rancho Mirage, CA, dedicated to teaching kids to read and write in Armenian.
Throughout past years Lilit and her husband were supporting wrestling schools in Gyumri with sportswear, wrestling shoes and gear. Lilit is joining S.O.A.R Rocky Mountain Chapter for 2025 to contribute to the mission.