Every year, stars from various industries such as film, music, and sports walk the red carpet to be honored for their contributions to entertainment and sports.
However, until 2006, the efforts of scientists working to preserve the world’s endangered species went largely unnoticed.
Since then, the Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc. has made a remarkable change, recognizing those dedicated to saving threatened species worldwide with both prestige and support.
The Indianapolis Zoological Society’s Mission
The Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc. is committed to protecting animals and educating the public about the importance of animal conservation.
This society runs the Indianapolis Zoo, which is dedicated to several conservation initiatives, including a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, and more.
Central to these efforts is the Indianapolis Prize, a prestigious $250,000 unrestricted award along with the Lilly Medal, cast in bronze.
This honor goes to the person selected as the world’s top conservationist each year. Five additional finalists are awarded $10,000 each.
Russell Mittermeier: The 2018 Indianapolis Prize Winner
Russell Mittermeier, Chief Conservation Officer for Global Wildlife Conservation, is this year’s recipient of the Indianapolis Prize.
Mittermeier has dedicated his career to protecting hundreds of species and millions of acres of habitat around the globe, focusing on “biodiversity hotspots.”
These hotspots are vital areas where conservationists can have the greatest impact at the lowest cost, preserving numerous species in one concentrated location.
Dr. Russ Mittermeier, the recipient of the 2018 Indianapolis Prize, commented, “I truly view this as the Nobel Prize for conservationists.” He emphasized how the award brings crucial recognition to global conservation efforts that might otherwise go unnoticed.
A Hall of Fame of Conservationists
Mittermeier highlighted that the Indianapolis Prize has created a “hall of fame” for international wildlife conservationists, increasing visibility for their groundbreaking work. Previous winners include:
- George Archibald, who has dedicated over 30 years to saving endangered crane species worldwide.
- Patricia Wright, a renowned expert on the social and family dynamics of wild lemurs in Madagascar.
- Carl Jones, who has successfully brought at least nine species back from the brink of extinction.
“It’s time we give recognition to the tireless work of these individuals who are literally saving the world,” Mittermeier said, praising the impact the Indianapolis Prize has had on elevating the profile of conservation efforts.
A Call to Action: Experience Nature Firsthand
Mittermeier believes that the best way to inspire a new generation of conservationists is by encouraging people to experience nature firsthand. He stressed that the key to saving our planet begins with engaging with it directly, whether in your own backyard or in far-flung rainforests and coral reefs.
“We want more people to learn about nature, not just from books or television, but by truly experiencing it,” Mittermeier explained. “Once you’ve been immersed in these environments, you’ll be converted for life. It’s a life-changing experience.”
This message of hands-on conservation is echoed by Jennifer Philipps and her niece Reyna Quintana, who were visiting the zoo from Indiana and Colorado, respectively.
Both women agree that protecting animals, regardless of where they live, is essential. Even small actions, such as properly disposing of trash, can make a significant difference.
The Indianapolis Prize: A Global Effort
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Established in 2006, the Indianapolis Prize was created to honor those who have made significant contributions to the protection of endangered species and habitats. Since its inception, the prize has been awarded only seven times.
A committee of global scientists and trustees from the Indianapolis Zoological Society selects six finalists, and a jury, including prominent conservationists like Jonathan Baillie from National Geographic and Jon Paul Rodriguez from the International Union for Conservation of Nature, chooses the winner.
Mittermeier’s Vision for the Future
Mittermeier plans to use his prize money to expand his conservation efforts in regions he has yet to visit, including the rainforest countries of West and Central Africa. His ultimate goal is to become the first person to observe all 78 genera of primates in the wild.
“I’m looking forward to setting aside more conservation areas in high-priority biodiversity hotspots,” Mittermeier said. “I may not have much time left, but I’m determined to make as big an impact as I can in the coming years.”
Honoring Advocacy for Wildlife
In addition to the Indianapolis Prize, the Indianapolis Zoological Society also honors individuals who use their platforms to advocate for endangered species.
This year, the Jane Alexander Global Wildlife Ambassador Award was presented to actor Harrison Ford.
Known for his iconic roles as Indiana Jones and Han Solo, Ford has been a consistent and powerful voice for wildlife conservation.
Both of these prestigious awards will be presented at the Indianapolis Prize Gala, held on September 29 in Indianapolis.
