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 people do risky things?” That is, help people to understand how culture/society/institutions affect our health decision-making (and ultimately our health) and what we can do about it. More recently, with the support and guidance of Carole Pertofsky (Director of HPS) I have heavily integrated the tenets of emotional intelligence and positive psychology into my work with students to with the intention of adding 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!