Donnovan Somera Yisrael ('89), MA

Education: MA, Sociology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, BA, Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA

Professional Interests: Through my work, I help answer the question, “Why do we do risky things that endanger our health and our lives?” That is, help people to understand how our cultures/institutions, our psychology and our deep need to connect socially affect our health decision-making and what we can do about it.  I heavily integrate the tenets of emotional intelligence and positive psychology into my work with students with the intention of helping them add meaning and happiness to their healthiness. Related to this, I was trained as a grief educator and volunteer with Kara in Palo Alto and have a passion for teaching people about the skill of grieving everything from disappointment to death.

Personal Interests:  Being with, my wife, Aly (‘95) and daughters, Isaiah and Avishai,  as well as participating in other activities that invigorate the heart and the spirit. I am a big proponent of adoption. Ask me about it!  I am also a skateboarding, skating and hockey (ice and roller) enthusiast. Wear your helmet!