ILLINOIS (WCIA) — The renowned primatologist and conservation advocate Jane Goodall has passed away at the age of 91. Widely regarded as a trailblazer by her colleagues, Goodall originally had no aspirations of becoming a scientist during her youth.

Now, her work has transformed the way the scientific community views, studies and interacts with primates.

A University of Illinois professor who had the chance to meet Goodall remarked on her youthful vitality even in her later years. He emphasized that the task of preserving her legacy now falls upon all of us.

“I think the responsibility now rests with us– as global citizens, scientists, and policymakers, to advance her legacy and persist in her endeavors. Her passing, while sorrowful and deserving of our mourning, should also be a source of motivation, just as she inspired us during her life to continue this crucial work,” stated Paul Garber, Professor Emeritus of the Department of Anthropology at UIUC.

Goodall was the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and the Roots & Shoots program.

In 2025 she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to science and global conservation.