SOAR - San Diego Chapter
San Diego joined the SOAR family in March 2013. Spanish for “Saint Didacus,” San Diego is the eighth most populous city in the United States. The city is known for its mild year-round Mediterranean climate, natural deep-water harbor, extensive beaches and parks, long association with the United States Navy, and recent emergence as a healthcare and biotechnology development center. Between 5,000 and 7,000 Armenians are estimated to live in the San Diego area.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Berj Arakelian
President
Berj Arakelian is a respected member of the San Diego community, where he has lived for the past eight years. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Berj is a highly involved member of the local Armenian church community. He has served as the Vice Chairman of the Parish Council and currently serves as an advisor to the council. Berj’s commitment to his community is exemplified by his significant involvement in the building committee for St Sarkis Armenian Church, where he played a crucial role in overseeing the construction of the new church building. Additionally, he serves on the Trust committee for St Sarkis Church, where he is a trusted member of the community.
Berj is also a highly respected mortgage loan originator and sales manager at CMG Home Loans, where he serves the needs of clients across California and the nation. Berj’s dedication to his work and his clients has earned him a reputation as a trusted professional in the industry.
In his free time, Berj enjoys spending time outdoors, fishing, camping, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of San Diego with his two boys. He also values his quiet time at home, where he can relax and recharge after a busy day of growing his business and real estate portfolio.
Berj’s LinkedIn profile showcases his professional achievements and expertise in the mortgage industry. He is highly regarded by his colleagues and clients for his integrity, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. Berj’s contributions to his community, both through his work in the mortgage industry and his involvement in the Armenian church community, have made him a respected and valued member of the San Diego community.
Inga Agasandyan
Social Media Director
Pic and Bio coming soon
Liliya Petrosyan
Director of Finance
Pic and Bio coming soon
Araksi Blbulyan
Araksi Blbulyan holds a Master’s degree in Audit and has over six years of experience in the field. Currently, she works as a Data Analysis Manager in the healthcare sector. Her journey started in auditing, but her passion for numbers and improving systems led her to the world of data analytics. Now, Araksi uses her skills to help make healthcare better and more efficient. She loves what she does and is always looking for new ways to make a positive impact through data-driven decisions.
Khori Cranford
Khori Cranford is a communications professional and advocate deeply committed to cultural identity, community engagement, and Armenian heritage. Originally from California’s Central Valley, she is the great-granddaughter of Armenian Genocide survivors. Now based in San Diego, Khori serves as the Program Assistant for San Diego State University Athletics’ Aztecs Going Pro (AGP) program, where she supports student-athletes in their personal growth, professional development, and civic engagement, helping prepare them for success beyond athletics.
Khori earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations from California State University, Fresno, along with minors in Armenian Studies and Italian Studies to honor both sides of her heritage. She later earned her Master of Arts in Communication from San Diego State University, where she was an undergraduate Public Speaking Instructor.
Her passion for Armenian advocacy has shaped both her academic and professional journey. In 2019, she participated in Paros Foundation service work across Armenia, supporting orphanages, families in need, children with disabilities, and community rebuilding projects. She later continued her advocacy work in Washington, D.C. through the prestigious Armenian Assembly of America Tejerian-Thomas Internship Program, where she served as a Legislative and Communications Intern in the U.S. House of Representatives, supporting initiatives impacting Armenia and the Armenian-American community.
Through her work in education, advocacy, and community service, Khori is passionate about creating spaces where culture, leadership, and service intersect. She is honored to join the SOAR San Diego Board and continue supporting Armenian children and families around the world while strengthening the local Armenian community through outreach and service.
Lilik Kazaryan
Pic and Bio coming soon