Celebrating Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland at the 2025 Indianapolis Prize Gala
The Indianapolis Zoo is gearing up for a highly anticipated event as it prepares to honor Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland, the winner of the prestigious 2025 Indianapolis Prize. Set on September 27, the gala will take place in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, recognizing Dr. René de Roland's outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation in Madagascar.
The Indianapolis Prize stands out as the world's premier award for animal conservation, rewarding individuals who have made significant impacts in their fields. Dr. René de Roland's recognition comes not just as a personal accolade but as an acknowledgement of a pioneering approach in conservation that fosters community involvement. This critical dimension has been emphasized by Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, who noted, "Dr. René de Roland exemplifies what we've learned after two decades of the Indianapolis Prize, that lasting conservation comes from local leadership and community partnership. We are proud to honor his significant achievements."
Originating from Madagascar, Dr. René de Roland has been instrumental in reshaping conservation strategies within his homeland, an area known for its exceptional biodiversity and threatened ecosystems. His critical work includes the rediscovery of the Madagascar pochard, a duck species once thought to have vanished from existence for forty years. This significant find occurred during an expedition in 2006 and has since fueled renewed hope for saving Madagascar's "lost" species.
Leading The Peregrine Fund's Madagascar Program, Dr. René de Roland has spearheaded initiatives that have resulted in the establishment of five national protected areas, covering over 1,500 square miles of vital habitats. With a commitment to education and capacity building, he has also mentored numerous Malagasy students, with his guidance resulting in 90 master's degrees and 16 doctoral degrees. Dr. René de Roland expresses deep pride in his work, stating: "My work is inspired by my pride for my country's biodiversity and my love for its wonderful people. I am grateful to work alongside so many dedicated Malagasy people who care deeply about protecting our home."
In addition to honoring Dr. René de Roland, the gala also recognizes Mwezi "Badru" Mugerwa, who has been awarded the title of 2025 Indianapolis Prize Emerging Conservationist. The young Ugandan researcher stands out for his innovative, community-driven approach aimed at protecting the elusive African golden cat—one of Africa's least-known species. His organization, Embaka, has made significant strides by engaging over 2,200 community members in conservation programs, all while addressing local essential needs. As Mugerwa put it, "Once you're in the communities and you understand the problem, the solutions become clear. Having a national park in your backyard shouldn't be a burden—it's an opportunity."
This event marks a significant milestone as it also commemorates 20 years of the Indianapolis Prize, which has dispersed over $7.5 million in grants to conservationists around the world since its inception. The gala promises to be a celebration of achievements in conservation and an inspiration for future endeavors. It will feature renowned journalist Anne Thompson as the host, alongside conservationist and television producer Saba Douglas-Hamilton. Adding to the festivities, Indianapolis local and Season 6 winner of NBC's "The Voice," Josh Kaufman, will perform.
As the Indianapolis Zoo continues to champion the efforts of conservationists like Dr. René de Roland and Mwezi Mugerwa, the hope is to inspire global audiences to foster local partnerships in wildlife protection efforts. The gala is more than just a celebration; it heralds the future of conservation, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and local leadership in the ongoing quest to protect Earth’s most vulnerable species.
The Indianapolis Prize stands out as the world's premier award for animal conservation, rewarding individuals who have made significant impacts in their fields. Dr. René de Roland's recognition comes not just as a personal accolade but as an acknowledgement of a pioneering approach in conservation that fosters community involvement. This critical dimension has been emphasized by Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, who noted, "Dr. René de Roland exemplifies what we've learned after two decades of the Indianapolis Prize, that lasting conservation comes from local leadership and community partnership. We are proud to honor his significant achievements."
Originating from Madagascar, Dr. René de Roland has been instrumental in reshaping conservation strategies within his homeland, an area known for its exceptional biodiversity and threatened ecosystems. His critical work includes the rediscovery of the Madagascar pochard, a duck species once thought to have vanished from existence for forty years. This significant find occurred during an expedition in 2006 and has since fueled renewed hope for saving Madagascar's "lost" species.
Leading The Peregrine Fund's Madagascar Program, Dr. René de Roland has spearheaded initiatives that have resulted in the establishment of five national protected areas, covering over 1,500 square miles of vital habitats. With a commitment to education and capacity building, he has also mentored numerous Malagasy students, with his guidance resulting in 90 master's degrees and 16 doctoral degrees. Dr. René de Roland expresses deep pride in his work, stating: "My work is inspired by my pride for my country's biodiversity and my love for its wonderful people. I am grateful to work alongside so many dedicated Malagasy people who care deeply about protecting our home."
In addition to honoring Dr. René de Roland, the gala also recognizes Mwezi "Badru" Mugerwa, who has been awarded the title of 2025 Indianapolis Prize Emerging Conservationist. The young Ugandan researcher stands out for his innovative, community-driven approach aimed at protecting the elusive African golden cat—one of Africa's least-known species. His organization, Embaka, has made significant strides by engaging over 2,200 community members in conservation programs, all while addressing local essential needs. As Mugerwa put it, "Once you're in the communities and you understand the problem, the solutions become clear. Having a national park in your backyard shouldn't be a burden—it's an opportunity."
This event marks a significant milestone as it also commemorates 20 years of the Indianapolis Prize, which has dispersed over $7.5 million in grants to conservationists around the world since its inception. The gala promises to be a celebration of achievements in conservation and an inspiration for future endeavors. It will feature renowned journalist Anne Thompson as the host, alongside conservationist and television producer Saba Douglas-Hamilton. Adding to the festivities, Indianapolis local and Season 6 winner of NBC's "The Voice," Josh Kaufman, will perform.
As the Indianapolis Zoo continues to champion the efforts of conservationists like Dr. René de Roland and Mwezi Mugerwa, the hope is to inspire global audiences to foster local partnerships in wildlife protection efforts. The gala is more than just a celebration; it heralds the future of conservation, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and local leadership in the ongoing quest to protect Earth’s most vulnerable species.
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