In a letter dated June 1, 2026, AFA President Jackline Yelda confirmed that the foundation has supported the Assyrian Studies Association since its establishment in 2019 through annual contributions. The new commitment will provide a total of $150,000 over the next five years.
“On behalf of the Assyrian Foundation of America, I am pleased to confirm that AFA has supported the Assyrian Studies Association since its inception in 2019 through annual financial contributions,” Yelda wrote. “In recognition of ASA’s important work in advancing Assyrian scholarship and cultural preservation, the AFA Board has also committed to providing financial support in the amount of $30,000 annually for the next five years.”
The Assyrian Studies Association welcomed the announcement, describing the pledge as a significant investment in the future of Assyrian scholarship and cultural preservation. The organization said the funding will help sustain and expand its academic programs, research initiatives, publications, educational projects, and efforts to preserve Assyrian heritage.
Founded in 2019, the Assyrian Studies Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the academic study of Assyrian history, culture, language, archaeology, religion, and heritage. The association supports scholarly research, publications, conferences, and collaborations among academics and institutions working on Assyrian and Mesopotamian studies.
The Assyrian Foundation of America, established in 1964 and based in California, is one of the oldest Assyrian charitable organizations in the United States. Its mission includes preserving Assyrian culture, history, and language while supporting educational, humanitarian, and community initiatives benefiting Assyrians worldwide.
