Dr. Senkalong (Senka) Yaden: A Legacy of Science and Education

Dr. Senkalong (Senka) Yaden a distinguished Naga scholar and scientist died at 89 years old when he passed away March 14, 2025 in Tyler Texas. People throughout the United States of America called him the “Man of Science of the United States of America” because he hailed from Merangkong village in Mokokchung district. For his entire career Dr. Yaden earned esteemed academic positions at various United States educational institutions where he conducted meaningful scientific work. Dr. Senka dedicated nearly his whole existence living abroad yet maintained strong connections to his heritage in the Naga community. On March 17, 2025, Ao Senden officially designated this day as a mourning period to honor the outstanding achievements of late Zoetics Senka.

Key Highlights

Introduction

• Dr. Senkalong (Senka) Yaden a distinguished Naga scholar and scientist died at 89 years old when he passed away March 14, 2025 in Tyler Texas. 

• Also known as “Man of Science of the United States of America”

Personal Background

• He entered this world on April 21st, 1935 in the Merangkong village of Mokokchung district in Nagaland.

• Son of the late Takojungba Yaden.

• Dr. Senka lost his life at age 89 on March 14, 2025 when he passed away in Tyler, Texas USA.

Academic Achievements and Career

• His scientific achievements earned him recognition as the “American Man of Science” while his profile appeared in American Men and Women of Science.

• The academic experience at the University of Minnesota from 1961–1965 marked his initial entry into educational work as a Biology Teaching Assistant.

• Academic institutions gave him positions with distinguished importance:

  • From 1967 to 1979 he served Jarvis Christian College first as an Associate Professor of Biology before taking charge of the Science Division as Professor of Biology in 1979.

  • Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (1981-1984): Senior Science Associate.

  • Parker University (1985-1986): Associate Professor of Science.

  • The institution of Talladega College appointed him as an Associate Professor of Biology during 1987.

  • Wiley College (1988-1991): Professor and Chairman, Department of Biology.

  • Texas College (1993-Retirement): Professor of Biology.

Recognition and Honors

• Sentimental recognition marked his status as the initial scientist from the Naga community.

• Honored with memberships in:

  • International Platform Association (1994).

  • Who’s Who in America (1994 & 1997).

  • Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers (1996).

Contributions to Society and Science

• The individual participated in peace work through service at Peace Camp Chedema (1966-67) as a Peace Mission Volunteer.

• Inspired generations through his commitment to education, science, and leadership.

Mourning and Tributes

• The members of Texas Nagas Fellowship expressed profound sadness to honor his achievements for the Naga diaspora community.

• On March 17, 2025 Ao Senden set March 17, 2025 as a national day for mourning to celebrate his departed legacy.

• Venerable Medemsanger Putu of Merangkong expressed grief to bring attention to the saintly aspects of his late life as he worked tirelessly and maintained unwavering faith in God.

• He carried the status of a genuine member of Merangkong village and succeeded in turning his homeland into a place of distinction.

Conclusion

Dr. Senkalong (Senka) Yaden endures as an academic and scientific legend who uplifted cultural pride throughout his life. The lifelong efforts of this individual persist to guide generations ahead within Nagaland as well as throughout the world.