Jane Goodall to keynote Nelson Institute conference in April

World-renowned primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace, will be the keynote speaker at the seventh annual Nelson Institute Earth Day Conference on Monday, April 15, in Madison.

Goodall is known for her landmark study of chimpanzee behavior in what is today Gombe National Park in Tanzania. Her work there became the foundation of future primatological research and redefined the relationship between humans and animals. Her institute continues the Gombe research and is a global leader in the effort to protect chimpanzees and their habitats.

Goodall’s keynote lecture will cap the Earth Day conference, “Conservation Everywhere: Sustaining Natural and Cultural Diversity,” which will explore a range of conservation issues. The all-day event will include remarks by marine conservation advocate and filmmaker Céline Cousteau; Ken Bonning, senior executive vice president of Kohl’s Corporation; and Nelson Institute Director Paul Robbins, an expert on human interactions with nature and the politics of natural resource management.

In addition, nine concurrent panel sessions will focus on topics such as primate behavior and conservation, climate change, nature in film and television, cultural conservation, ecosystem services and other topics. The program also includes exhibits, awards and other activities.

The Nelson Institute Earth Day conference will take place at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center in downtown Madison and is open to the public, though registration is required. Space is limited, so early registration is strongly recommended. More information and registration are available here.