Jane Goodall sparked hope in future generations due to her life-long research. photo by Eric A.Carstens
Celebrating the life and legacy of one of nature’s most prominent voices.
World renowned scientist and environmental activist Jane Goodall passed away on October 1st, 2025, at the outstanding age of 91. Despite her sudden passing, her lifelong work and aspirations continue to be a driving force in environmental preservation and justice.
From a very young age, Goodall was always interested in learning about the outside world. She kept a nature journal throughout her time in primary school that consisted of sketches and observations about her environment. Due to her not being able to attend college because of a lack of funds, she attended secretarial school, which then led her to be a secretary at Oxford University as well as at a documentary film company. In July, 1960, with the support of anthropologist Louis Leakey, Goodall began her famous research on chimpanzees in Tanzania. She spent over a decade researching the secretive lives of chimpanzees and eventually discovered that they, similar to humans, use tools throughout their daily lives. Up until this discovery it was believed that tool use was a skill exclusively practiced by humans. Her research earned her a spot on National Geographic Magazine’s cover in 1963. With an increase in fame also came an increase in backlash, mainly from male scientists within her field. She was often not taken seriously due to her gender and was also sexualized due to her looks and appearances in multiple National Geographic articles. Despite some people’s sexist viewpoints, Goodall continued her research and her popularity continued to increase.
After researching chimpanzees, Goodall decided to enter Cambridge University’s doctoral program in 1962 where she earned her PhD in Ethology in 1965, which was unheard of for a woman in that period of time. Through her education and extensive research, Goodall continued her conservation work and became a well-known environmental advocate. In 1977, Goodall founded the Jane Goodall Institute which provided support for extensive research for habitat and wildlife restoration in Gombe. In addition to the institute, Goodall founded the Roots & Shoots global youth program in 1991, which was created with the intent to educate children about the environment, animal welfare, and habitat preservation. Throughout her life, she was featured in many documentaries and published a large number of books that focused on her research. One of the most famous books written by Goodall is called In the Shadow of Man, which recounts her experiences researching chimpanzees in Tanzania. Goodall also created the Tchimpoguna Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Center which is the largest chimp sanctuary in Africa. The sanctuary focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating chimpanzees who were victims of illegal commercial bushmeat as well as pet trades.
Goodall is a prime example of a selfless individual who dedicated her life to make the planet a better and more sustainable place. Through her research the importance of keeping our planet healthy has become apparent. She not only paved the way for scientific research but also opened the door for women to become more involved in environmental sciences. Goodall’s call for compassion, equality, and a better environment will continue to inspire future generations and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those willing to advocate for factors much bigger than themselves.
