Goodall interacts with a chimpanzee in 2009                                                                          Europa Press

Honoring Jane Goodall

BY HELEN AN

OCTOBER 16, 2025

Dr. Jane Goodall, a lifelong advocate for animal rights and widely recognized for her studies of chimpanzee behavior, passed away at the age of 91. While many people today know Goodall as the “Gorilla Lady”, it is undeniable that she was one of the most influential scientists and conservation activists of our time. While conducting her research, Goodall not only showed the world what it meant to be a scientist, but also what it meant to act as a human. Here’s what students had to say about her:

“She was a very innovative person who pioneered a new approach to biological science and a pretty cool conservationist who did a lot to raise awareness”, said junior Oliver Grasberger-Dorman. 

            Senior Joyce Lin added, “I think that Jane Goodall was a formidable and inspiring woman, and I think that she advocated for all the animals, [which] is something we need more of in this society.”

            Throughout her lifetime, Dr. Goodall has published 32 books, most notably, My Friends, the Wild Chimpanzees, In the Shadow of Man, and Through a Window. Additionally, she has appeared in television shows like “Miss Goodall and the World of Chimpanzees”, “Jane Goodall and the World of Animal Behavior”, and more — making her a household name. 

            The Jane Goodall Institute will continue to honor Dr. Goodall’s meaningful contributions to the scientific community and recognize her legacy as someone who made us care deeply and think curiously.