NYSUT celebrates Women’s History Month with a new poster honoring Jane Goodall. A world-renowned primatologist and anthropologist whose groundbreaking research transformed our understanding of the natural world, Goodall traveled to Tanzania in 1960 to study chimpanzees in what is now Gombe Stream National Park. She was the first to observe chimpanzees making and using tools; a behavior previously thought to be uniquely human.
At a time when women were largely excluded from fieldwork and scientific leadership, Goodall broke barriers and paved the way for generations of women in science. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute, which supports conservation and development programs across Africa. Central to the Institute's mission is its work to empower young women by providing access to education, family planning, high-quality healthcare and clean water. She also established Roots & Shoots, a youth-led program active in more than 60 countries that empowers young people to become environmental and humanitarian leaders.
A United Nations Messenger of Peace, Goodall received numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and damehood from the British Crown. She continued to advocate tirelessly until her passing on Oct. 1, 2025, at age 91, inspiring generations — especially young women — to challenge convention and protect the planet.
Downloadable pdf versions and printed copies, in limited quantities, are available to NYSUT members. Visit nysut.org/publications.