The Charlie Keyan Armenian Community School in Clovis is the recipient of a $110,000 grant from the Las Vegas-based Lincy Foundation, established by billionaire and Fresno native Kirk Krikorian.

Funds from the grant will be used for school expenses and to provide scholarships to needy students. A portion will also be used to purchase computer-based whiteboards for elementary school classes.

"I shouted with joy when I opened the envelope from the foundation. We thank God for the Lincy Foundation, its benefactors, executives, and all who placed such confidence in us.  Bless each," said Principal Sophie Mekhitarian, in a statement.

The Lincy Foundation was formed in 1989 in response to a devastating earthquake in Armenia. Contributions from the Lincy Foundation provided housing to displaced individuals and families. The Lincy Foundation funding is provided solely by Kerkorian's Tracinda Corp. The corporation, in addition to the foundation, is named for Kerkorian's daughters, Tracy and Linda.

Kerkorian began his career as a pilot, first in World War II and then as a commercial pilot transporting visitors from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. His first business venture in Las Vegas was purchasing a stake in the Dunes Hotel in 1955. He is now the main stockholder of MGM Mirage Resorts and Casinos, which includes the MGM Grand Resort, the Mirage and the Bellagio.