EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is featured in the Winter 2026 edition of The Tartan magazine. Read more from The Tartan at alma.edu/tartan.
“He gave us the confidence to succeed in the real world. He taught us lessons you couldn’t find in a textbook.” — Michael Altman ’80
George “Gaz” Gazmararian, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 93, left an enduring mark on Alma College. A beloved professor of business administration from 1966 to 1996, he was known for his sharp intellect, dry wit, and unwavering dedication to his students. During his three decades at Alma, Gazmararian chaired the Business Administration department, led international business programs, and inspired countless future professionals through his real-world approach to teaching.
His influence lives on through a new tribute created by alumni: the George Gazmararian Room in the Altman House. The project was led by Michael Altman ’80, who helped organize his class’s 40th reunion. When the idea arose to enclose the Altman House patio, Altman suggested naming the space for Gazmararian.
“There was nothing on campus named after him,” Altman said. “He was a legend.”
Alumni from the Class of 1980 rallied around the effort, quickly raising more than $10,000. The enclosed room—now a comfortable space for visiting alumni and guests—honors both Gazmararian’s memory and the close bonds formed through his teaching. “He gave us the confidence to succeed in the real world,” Altman said. “He taught us lessons you couldn’t find in a textbook.”
Gazmararian’s life extended far beyond campus. Born in Jerusalem, he came to the U.S. in 1951 and went on to earn degrees from Warren Wilson College, the University of Detroit, and Michigan State University. Known for his love of animals, nature, and his trademark “Christmas list” of stock picks, he approached life with humor and generosity.
Today, the George Gazmararian Room stands as a lasting reminder of a teacher who shaped generations of Alma students — and the alumni who continue to carry his lessons forward.