January 4, 2025 World Renowned Conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom on January 4, 2025 Photo by Katherine Holland. The ethologist and activist, who turns 91 this April, will be recognized for her groundbreaking contributions to science and decades of advocacy for our planet (January 4, 2025 – Washington, D.C.) In a press statement issued by the White House, President Biden named 19 recipients to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, including Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States’ highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors. “I am deeply honored to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” said Dr. Jane Goodall. “This recognition reflects the hope and action of so many people who inspire and motivate me every day in the firm belief that together we can and we must save the natural world for ourselves and future generations.” “Jane’s own personal evolution from world-renowned scientist to global conservation advocate is a stunning example of each individual’s ability to make a positive impact,” said Anna Rathmann, Executive Director at the Jane Goodall Institute USA. “We are grateful that the White House is recognizing our founder’s tireless work to inspire hope and transform it into action on behalf of our planet, and as the organization who proudly bears her name, we are honored to fulfill her vision each and every day.” At 26, Jane followed her passion for wildlife and Africa to what is now Gombe, Tanzania and under the mentorship of paleoanthropologist Dr. Louis Leakey, began her landmark study of wild chimpanzees. Her revelatory observation that chimpanzees make and use tools rocked the scientific world and forever redefined our understanding of the relationship between humans and other animals. Jane founded the first Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) in 1977 and today 24 global chapters work to support her holistic approach to conservation. JGI’s work includes championing community-led conservation through its signature Tacare program, providing expert care for nearly 200 rescued chimpanzees and other wildlife in two sanctuaries, sustaining the longest-running wild chimpanzee study in Gombe and engaging the next generation of changemakers through Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots. Roots & Shoots inspires young people of all ages in 70 countries to undertake hands-on projects of their choosing to benefit the community, animals (including domestic animals) and the environment. Jane travels globally around 300 days each year to spread her message of hope for our planet, inspiring audiences through speaking tours, media engagements, written publications, and a wide array of film, television and podcast projects. She has authored many books for adults and children, her latest publication “The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times,” has been translated into more than 20 languages. Jane is a global icon spreading hope and reminding us all that our daily actions make a difference and it’s up to us the kind of difference we make. About the Jane Goodall Institute The Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) is a global, community-led conservation organization founded in 1977 that advances the vision and work of Dr. Jane Goodall in 24 chapters around the world. We aim to understand and protect chimpanzees, other apes and their habitats, and empower people to be compassionate citizens in order to inspire conservation of the natural world we all share. JGI uses research, community-led conservation, best-in-class animal welfare standards, and the innovative use of science and technology to inspire hope and transform it into action for the common good. Through our Roots & Shoots program for young people of all ages, now active in 70 countries around the world, JGI is creating a movement of compassionate people who will help to create a better world for people, other animals, and our shared environment. Follow @JaneGoodallCan. Media Contact: Alex Johnson | alex@janegoodall.ca Explore Related Content Dr. Jane, News and Updates “An Evening with Jane Goodall: Celebrating 90” – A landmark celebration comes to Vancouver January 4, 2025 Read more Dr. Jane Dr. Jane Goodall Quotes to Inspire Hope & Action January 4, 2025 Read more Champions and Partners, From The Field, News and Updates “We’re building something that will last:” Explore our 2024-2025 Annual Report January 4, 2025 Read more
