Larisa Hovannisian
Born October 21, 1988 in Yerevan, Armenian SSR, Soviet Union • Next birthday: October 21, 2026
October 21, 1988
Yerevan, Armenian SSR, Soviet Union0
0 likesOctober 21, 2026
321 days out10
Total visitsWhat does it take to revolutionize education? For Larisa Hovannisian, it began with an unwavering belief in equality. Born on 1988-10-21 in Yerevan (then Soviet Armenia), she spent her childhood between Moscow and Yerevan, absorbing the dual rhythms of diaspora and homeland.
Her formal journey started in the United States: she earned a BA in International Business and French (with a minor in Graphic Design) from St. Norbert College, then went on to complete a master's in Special Education at Arizona State University.
In 2010 she joined a special-education classroom in Glendale, Arizona through a teaching program - and confronted firsthand the inequalities in access to quality education. That experience ignited a vision: what if a similar movement could uplift the children of her native Armenia?
Consequently, in 2013 she founded Teach For Armenia, stepping into her role as CEO and social-entrepreneurial trailblazer. Under her energetic leadership, the nonprofit recruits and trains high-achieving graduates and professionals ("Teacher-Leaders") to commit to teaching for at least two years in underserved schools across Armenia and Artsakh.
Despite the enormous challenge of rebuilding an educational system burdened by Soviet legacy and economic hardship, Larisa pushed forward - securing buy-in from government, educators, parents, and the Armenian diaspora alike. In recognition of her relentless drive, she received national honors from the Armenian government in September 2016.
Moreover, under her stewardship Teach For Armenia has grown into one of the country's most influential nonprofits, reaching tens of thousands of students in rural communities. Larisa also extended her impact globally by serving on the board of other youth-leadership organizations beyond Armenia.
Through adversity - cultural expectations, bureaucratic inertia, and limited resources - she stayed the course, transforming setbacks into opportunities for systemic change. Her bold vision and tireless activism redefined what is possible for youth across her homeland.
Decades later, Larisa Hovannisian's indelible impact endures - inspiring new generations across Armenia and beyond, leaving us with the belief that education can break cycles of inequality.
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Career & Achievements
- Founding Teach For Armenia (2013)
- National recognition by Armenian government (2016)
- Expansion of Teach For Armenia to 80+ rural communities
- Recruitment and training of diaspora and local Teacher-Leaders
- Service on global youth-leadership boards
Personal Details
External Links
Latest News
Teach For All
Teach For Armenia marks 10-year milestone under Larisa Hovannisian's leadership
On September 17, 2025, Teach For Armenia celebrated its 10-year anniversary, highlighting more than 60,000 students reached and over 500 alumni Teacher-Leaders. Founder and CEO Larisa Hovannisian reaffirmed the organization's commitment to systemic educational reform and launched a bold roadmap for the next decade.
Mediamax
New Teacher Leadership master's program launched with YSU and Teach For Armenia
On March 4, 2025, a first-of-its-kind Master's in Teacher Leadership program - developed jointly by Yerevan State University (YSU) and Teach For Armenia - began graduating cohorts, integrating pedagogical training with leadership development. Larisa Hovannisian described the initiative as a critical step toward sustainable, community-centered education reform across rural Armenia.
CivilNet
Larisa Hovannisian urges overhaul of Armenia's education system
In a December 12, 2023 feature on CivilNet, Hovannisian argued passionately that Armenia must "break free from an outdated education system." She shared her vision for social-emotional learning, equity, and purpose-driven schooling, reinforcing her role as a leading advocate for modern educational values in Armenia.
RepatArmenia
Hovannisian to speak at Engage Armenia 2024 diaspora forum across Europe
On February 26, 2024 RepatArmenia announced that Larisa Hovannisian will present at the Engage Armenia 2024 Forum, addressing diaspora Armenians in European cities about returning home, contributing skills, and shaping Armenia's youth and education through Teach For Armenia.
Algene Sajery Podcast
Conflict in Artsakh deeply impacts Teach For Armenia students - Hovannisian speaks out
In a 2024 interview, Hovannisian described the effects of the 2023 Nagorno-Karabakh crisis on her organization's students, including tragic loss of life and displacement. She emphasized renewed commitment to support affected alumni and integrate trauma-responsive education into Teach For Armenia's work.
FAQ
What is Larisa Hovannisian best known for?
She is widely known for founding Teach For Armenia, an influential nonprofit dedicated to improving education equity. Her leadership has positioned the organization as a major force in Armenia's social innovation landscape.
How did Larisa Hovannisian start her career in education?
Her career began in a special-education classroom in Arizona, where she confronted systemic inequities firsthand. This experience motivated her to build a similar movement in Armenia.
What motivated her to create Teach For Armenia?
She sought to close the gap between rural and urban educational opportunities in her homeland. Her work aims to cultivate future leaders by empowering underserved communities.
What impact has Teach For Armenia had so far?
The organization has placed Teacher-Leaders in dozens of rural communities, reaching tens of thousands of students. It has also elevated national conversations about education reform.
Has Larisa Hovannisian received any awards?
Yes, she was formally recognized by the Armenian government in 2016 for her contributions to national education. This acknowledgment strengthened the visibility of Teach For Armenia's mission.
What is her educational background?
She holds a BA from St. Norbert College and a master's degree in Special Education from Arizona State University. Her academic path reflects her commitment to both global learning and practical educational reform.
Is Teach For Armenia part of a global network?
It is affiliated with the Teach For All network, a coalition of independent organizations worldwide. This connection enables resource-sharing and global leadership development.
How does Larisa Hovannisian contribute internationally?
She participates in youth-leadership initiatives beyond Armenia, lending her expertise to global boards and networks. Her international roles amplify the visibility of Armenia's reform movement.
Where can supporters learn more about her work?
Information is available through Teach For Armenia's official website and global education forums. These platforms offer updates, impact reports, and opportunities to engage with the mission.
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