Rita was born in Istanbul, Turkey, and immigrated to the United States at the age of two.  Raised on Long Island, New York, Rita attended The Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs in Bayside, New York.  Rita is married to Ara Keshishian and has two grown children, and two granddaughters. Originally a snow bird to the Clearwater area since 2011, Rita’s residence now is primarily in Florida since her retirement as a medical office manager to retinal surgeons in 2016. Over her years at Holy Martyrs, Rita served the parish in different capacities.  Rita was president of the Nominating Committee, secretary of the Parish Council, and was a Diocesan Delegate.  Rita served on the executive board of the Language School as secretary and co-chair and was co-chair of the Fellowship Committee for several years.  Rita also served as co-chair for Holy Martyrs’ 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance.  She also served on the committee hosting the Diocesan Assembly at Holy Martyrs. For the past year, Rita has served as a greeter at St. Hagop and has recently joined the Events Committee.  This is Rita’s first opportunity to serve on parish council at St. Hagop.