Institute of Ancient Iran
Exploring timeless values that inspire modern futures
Our Vision
Freedom, courage, equality of worth, diversity, creativity, inquiry and critical thinking formed the foundation of Ancient Iran's culture and civilization. These values inspired and influenced philosophy, literature, arts, architecture, leadership and governance — first fully manifested under Cyrus the Great and expressed throughout the history of Iran across the Iranian Plateau.
In the decades ahead, the Institute of Ancient Iran seeks to explore and promote these core values, investigating their reach across the Iranian Plateau and their mutual exchange with neighboring ancient civilizations. The Institute embraces and amplifies ancient values that inspire modern futures.
Mission of the Institute
The Institute serves as a catalyst for high-impact scholarship and a platform for cultural advocacy. By bridging theory and action, we foster a diverse community dedicated to advancing Iranian values through iconic initiatives and global partnerships.
The Institute of Ancient Iran is a registered nonprofit organization (Charity ID: 41-4416113).
Strategic Priorities
Scholarship & Research
- Convening seminal gatherings to explore the contemporary relevance of ancient Iranian values.
- Awarding competitive global scholarships for graduate studies in related fields.
- Hosting Visiting Fellows to bring specialized scholarly and practical expertise to our community.
Public Engagement & Culture
- Promoting iconic representations of ancient Iranian achievements.
- Organizing public seminars and round tables to foster open dialogue.
Next-Generation Leadership
- Implementing youth leadership programs through collaborative workshops and partnerships.
Community Expansion
- Cultivating "Friends of the Institute" and strategic partners to broaden our network and impact.
Board Members
Zarir Khademian, MD, PhD
Board Member
A pediatric neuroradiologist and former PhD economist. Former two-term President of the ZAMWI* Board of Trustees. Resident agent for the Institute.
*ZAMWI: Zoroastrian Association of Metropolitan Washington Inc.
Anne Khademian, PhD
Board Member
A higher education leader and former professor and scholar. Earned a PhD in political science and serves on several boards to support economic development and business growth. Former two term president of the ZAMWI Board of Trustees.
Hormuzdiar Katki, PhD, Mobedyar
Board Member
Scientific Vice President for Cancer Screening at American Cancer Society. Has served ZAMWI since 2017 as Mobedyar. Undergoing Athravan Ervad training in North America to be ordained in late 2026.
Roksana Mazdeyasni, MBA
Board Member
An MBA and experienced accounting professional currently serving as a Senior Payroll Accountant Specialist with the University of Maryland, Baltimore (State of Maryland). Serves as Treasurer of ZAMWI.
Mahshad Khosraviani, Mobedyar
Board Member
An HR Director, speaker, and educator. The youngest female Zoroastrian priestess in Iran and the first ordained female Mobedyar in North America. Recognized for advancing Zoroastrian identity and community engagement globally.
Mehraban Manoochehri, MIM
Board Member
With a background in technology, business, and cultural digital projects, including Gahshomar, Sher o Chai, and Almost Farsi, Mehraban explores Iranian and Zoroastrian calendar traditions, Persian poetry, language, and cultural identity.
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Unlocking the Values of the Past to Inspire Modern Futures: Institute of Ancient Iran Launches
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new vision for scholarship, culture, and community has arrived. Institute of Ancient Iran, Inc. announces its launch, establishing a dynamic platform dedicated to exploring, preserving, and amplifying the foundational principles of one of humanity's greatest civilizations – Ancient Iran.
Built on the conviction that the core values of Ancient Iran—freedom, courage, equality of worth, diversity, creativity, inquiry, and critical thinking—are more relevant today than ever, the Institute bridges the gap between historical theory and modern action. These ideals, first fully manifested under Cyrus the Great, echoed across the Iranian Plateau for millennia, profoundly shaping global philosophy, literature, architecture, and governance. The Institute enters the landscape to ensure these values actively inspire tomorrow's world.
A Legacy Reignited
"Ancient Iran gave the world a blueprint for governance and human dignity rooted in freedom, inquiry, and the radical equality of worth," said Zarir Khademian, Ph.D., MD, President of the Board of Directors and Resident Agent of Institute of Ancient Iran, Inc. "The Institute does not exist merely to look backward at history, but to advance these timeless values forward. By bringing scholars together with all students of Ancient Iran, we are building a platform where our shared heritage actively shapes a more creative, inspired and inclusive future."
Driven by a Dedicated Board
The vision of the Institute is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to scholarly excellence, cultural preservation and modern practice. The founding Board includes:
- Roksana Mazdeyasni, MBA
- Mobedyar Mahshad Khosraviani, Director, HR
- Mobedyar Hormuzdiar Katki, Ph.D.
- Mehraban Manoochehri, MIM
- Anne Khademian, Ph.D.
- Zarir Khademian, Ph.D., M.D. — Resident Agent, Institute of Ancient Iran, Inc.
A Catalyst for Scholarship, Culture, and Community
For scholars and researchers worldwide, the Institute serves as a high-impact catalyst. The Institute will support research into the reach of ancient Iranian culture across the plateau, investigating its deep, mutual exchanges with neighboring civilizations. Through partnerships and rigorous inquiry, the Institute provides a collaborative ecosystem for advancing this work.
Explore the Vision
The Institute invites scholars, cultural stewards, and community members to join this transformative journey. The official website is now live, featuring the organization’s roadmap, initiatives, and opportunities for partnership.
Discover the mission, read the full foundational vision, and become part of the future of ancient history by visiting ancientiran.org.
About the Institute of Ancient Iran, Inc.
The Institute of Ancient Iran, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the study, preservation, and promotion of ancient Iranian values. By bridging scholarship with cultural action, the Institute advances the enduring values of ancient Iran through cultural initiatives, academic research, and high-impact partnerships.
Foundation and Leadership
Zarir and Anne Khademian managed and secured the Institute’s legal structure and state and federal tax-exempt status, while also providing the foundational seed financing to launch the organization. The Institute's digital launch was driven by Mehraban Manoocheri, who designed and developed the official website, established its social media presence, and built out the essential fundraising platforms and operational tools required to support the Institute's growth. Rashni Katki provided video editing support.
Media Contact:
Institute of Ancient Iran, Inc.
Email: info@ancientiran.org
Website: ancientiran.org
Instagram: @instituteofancientiran
Our Partners
The Kamran Seminar
