Dr. Zeena Tawfik Yonkers
Professor Zeena Yonkers has presented and published in various psychological and medical journals on mood disorders, wellness, memory, problem gambling, cultural survival, and human rights. Her research in the area of mental health and wellness has appeared in numerous publications.
In addition to her academic work, she has served as an editor and producer for local television segments on Connecticut Public Television’s Nutmeg TV.
Her commitment to community service began in her youth. As a high school student, she initiated Assyrian flag-raising ceremonies and proclamations. She also organized the distribution of Assyrian educational packets to elementary and middle school students through the Board of Education.
As a college and graduate student, she became the Youth Initiative Director of the Assyrian American National Federation (AANF). She led youth programming for 15 years, eventually training other young Assyrians to manage these programs as she transitioned into roles as Eastern Regional Director, Assistant to the President, Vice President, and eventually a Board Advisor for the organization.
In 2005, driven by a desire to share her heritage with her children, she co-created the Lamassu Kids Camp at the AANF annual conventions, a program that remains active today. She is proud to see many participants of these non-profit initiatives become leaders and advocates within the Assyrian diaspora.
Zeena’s connection to her heritage and her professional success stem from her parents’ teachings of peace, determination, and faith. She continues to honor the survival of her parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents by advocating for the recognition of the genocides and struggles endured by the people of the Levant.
Zeena is currently a professor of behavioral and biological medicine in Connecticut and the proud mother of two sons who are pursuing their higher degrees.