When philanthropists Judith Saryan and Victor Zarougian first walked through the doors of TUMO over a decade ago, they knew they had stumbled upon something extraordinary. They saw in TUMO what they had always hoped for Armenia: a future that blended innovation, education, and empowerment.

“We realized right away that TUMO was a gift that Armenia was giving to the world,” says Judy. “It’s a movement that is changing the face of education.”

Their journey with TUMO began in 2013, during a visit to Yerevan when their daughter was participating in Birthright Armenia. Victor had read about TUMO and was eager to see it firsthand. What they discovered exceeded their expectations.

“We were given a tour by [TUMO ceo] Marie Lou’s daughter, who was only 12 years old at the time,” Judy recalls. “She was so articulate and knowledgeable about the programs—it was clear that TUMO was already shaping confident, capable young minds.”

Since that first visit, they have become dedicated supporters of TUMO’s expansion – and along with countless other supporters, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the TUMO Center in Koghb, a border town in the Tavush region. TUMO’s arrival in Koghb infused the community with a renewed sense of purpose, equipping students to dream bigger and reach further. When Kapan emerged as the next frontier, Judy and Victor wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity.

The location of TUMO Kapan holds deep significance, as it serves a region with immense potential yet limited access to modern educational resources. The historic railway station chosen for TUMO Kapan stands as a symbol of the region’s past, now repurposed to become a beacon for the future. Victor shares, “It represents a bridge between history and progress, ensuring that young people in Kapan have the same opportunities as those in Yerevan or anywhere else in the world.”

Victor and Judy recognize that TUMO’s approach is revolutionary. By offering a space where students learn through self-driven exploration, guided by experts, TUMO fosters a culture of innovation that extends far beyond Armenia. It’s an initiative that mirrors the ingenuity Armenians have demonstrated throughout history. “Armenians have always been pioneers in new technologies,” Judy notes. “From photography in the Ottoman Empire to being at the forefront of computing in the Soviet-era , there’s a legacy of curiosity and invention. TUMO is the next chapter in that story.”

Victor and Judy believe TUMO embodies the best of Armenia— innovation, resilience, and boundless potential. As they continue to champion its mission, they hope to inspire others to join them in expanding this extraordinary opportunity to even more young minds. “We all have a role to play,” says Judy. “When you support TUMO, you’re not just funding a program—you’re giving young people the chance to shape their own future. TUMO is the future, and we’re happy to be part of it.”

To learn more about how you can make a lasting impact for Armenia’s youth, please contact [email protected].