#United States #Indianapolis #Conservation #Indianapolis Prize #Animal Species

Celebrating Conservation Heroes

The renowned Indianapolis Prize has announced its six finalists for the 2025 DeHaan Finalists, honoring outstanding figures in the field of animal conservation. Recognized for their significant contributions to species protection, these remarkable individuals each exemplify powerful commitments to the preservation of the world’s endangered fauna.

Since its establishment, the Indianapolis Prize has distinguished itself as the leading global accolade for conservation efforts, offering financial rewards to support ongoing work in the critical realm of wildlife preservation. Each of the DeHaan Finalists will receive a grant of $50,000 to further their remarkable efforts and projects.

The 2025 DeHaan Finalists

1. Alberto Alves Campos (Aquasis, Brazil, and the University of British Columbia, Canada)
A conservation biologist and founder of Aquasis, Campos focuses on endangered species and habitat conservation initiatives across Brazil. His significant strides include improving the conservation status of the Antillean manatee and creating a vital reserve for the endangered Red knot.

2. Lisa Dabek, Ph.D. (Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program, Papua New Guinea, and Woodland Park Zoo, USA)
As the architect of Papua New Guinea’s first conservation area dedicated to tree kangaroos, Dr. Dabek blends scientific innovation with community collaboration. Her work involves engaging local indigenous groups to craft enduring conservation strategies for this unique species.

3. Biruté Mary Galdikas, Ph.D. (Orangutan Foundation International, USA)
A pioneer in orangutan research, Dr. Galdikas has revealed critical ecological insights about these remarkable primates. Through her foundation, she has successfully rehabilitated over 500 orangutans for reintegration into their natural habitats, thus safeguarding the future of the species.

4. Julie Packard (Monterey Bay Aquarium, USA)
As a leader in marine conservation, Packard champions the sustainable seafood movement, emphasizing ecosystem-based practices and public engagement. Her influence extends to policy initiatives that advocate for healthier oceans, positioning her as a key figure in global marine protection efforts.

5. Lily-Arison René de Roland, Ph.D. (The Peregrine Fund, Madagascar)
Renowned for establishing multiple national protected areas in Madagascar, Dr. René de Roland focuses on community-driven conservation. His initiatives have facilitated the discovery of new species while addressing human-wildlife conflicts to ensure ecological balance.

6. Lee James Taylor White, Ph.D. (Institute for Tropical Ecology Research, Gabon, and University of Stirling, Scotland)
With a remarkable four-decade career, Dr. White’s research on the critically endangered African forest elephant has led to extensive efforts in habitat preservation and the creation of a protected park network in Gabon, which plays a vital role in the survival of this keystone species.

A Celebration of Conservation

The Indianapolis Prize honors these extraordinary DeHaan Finalists not only for their innovations in conservation but for their collaborative spirits and measurable impacts. Dr. Rob Shumaker, president of the Indianapolis Zoological Society, remarked, "These six extraordinary conservationists have achieved tangible results in safeguarding threatened species across the globe."

In May 2025, one of these finalists will be awarded the prestigious Indianapolis Prize, including a $250,000 cash award. The winner and the finalists will be celebrated during a gala event set for September 27, 2025, in downtown Indianapolis, further spotlighting their remarkable achievements and the importance of conservation work worldwide.

The Indianapolis Prize continues to serve as a beacon of hope in the fight for wildlife preservation, having awarded over $7 million to conservation scientists since its inception in 2006. Each award not only acknowledges outstanding contributions but also feeds the ongoing urgency for biodiversity protection, ensuring a secure future for our planet’s animal species.

For more information regarding the Indianapolis Prize and the inspirational journeys of previous winners, visit IndianapolisPrize.org.