Celebrated primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall was honored with uncommon grace. Family, friends and fellow environmental advocates including actor brothers Leonardo DiCaprio and NFL great David Robinson convened to pay tribute to her legacy. Goodall, who died last October at 91, spent her life studying and advocating for the welfare of chimpanzees. Her innovative work redefined the field of wildlife conservation.
Goodall wrote dozens of books over the course of her career. Her revolutionary research—which she collected since 1960, when she first encountered chimpanzees in Tanzania—has shed deep light on their social interactions. Her research opened a window into the emotional and social lives of these complex primates. It further provoked our conception of intersections between human and animal worlds. She appeared in numerous documentaries that showcased her findings and advocated for wildlife preservation, further solidifying her status as one of the world’s most revered wildlife advocates.
In appreciation for her devotion to wildlife and habitats, Goodall was presented with multiple awards. In recognition of her artistry, Britain awarded her the prestigious rank of Dame Commander. In 2021, President Joe Biden awarded her the US Presidential Medal of Freedom. Such honors highlight her impact on scientific discovery and the public understanding of science, particularly in terms of environmental stewardship.
In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute in Washington, D.C., to promote her work. Since then, the institute has played an essential role in paving the way for research and conservation efforts surrounding chimpanzees. In 1991, Goodall founded Roots & Shoots, a youth-driven environmental program that is now active in more than 60 countries. This program gives youth from underserved communities the opportunity to work on local, community-based conservation projects. It cultivates their sense of agency in caring for the natural world.
At her memorial service in 2008, her grandson Merlin van Lawick held a stuffed toy chimpanzee. This graceful gesture embodied the deep spiritual bond and enduring impact of legacy that Goodall has fostered. The service drew notable leaders from environmental communities who read their heartfelt tributes to her deep influence on the conservation of wildlife.
“She constantly reminded us that life was full of wonders — an interconnected tapestry of diverse creatures,” – Merlin van Lawick
To honor Goodall’s impact, actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio recently stressed the need to extend her legacy.
“May we all honour her by carrying forward that same fierce belief that we can do better, that we must do better, and that we have a responsibility to protect this beautiful natural world we all share,” – Leonardo DiCaprio
DiCaprio went on to praise Goodall’s rare gift for explaining the inner connections that bind all life together.
“But beneath that fierce honesty was an unwavering faith that every voice matters, that we are all connected to the living world, and that each of us can make a difference,” – Leonardo DiCaprio
DeWayne “Dee” Crank echoed these sentiments during the ceremony, highlighting Goodall’s legacy as a call to action for future generations.
“A reminder that humanity’s strength lies in its respect for all living things and in our responsibility to protect the Earth for future generations,” – DeWayne “Dee” Crank
