(May 30, 2023) - Laurentian University is proud to announce that Dr. Jackie Litzgus has been chosen as the first recipient of the Jane Goodall Research Fellowship in Conservation Biology. This esteemed recognition is in honor of Dr. Litzgus's groundbreaking work in safeguarding endangered species, particularly the reptiles facing critical challenges in Ontario.
Dr. Litzgus, a distinguished scientist, has garnered numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Laurentian University Research Excellence Award and Ontario Nature's Conservation Leadership Award. Currently serving as the Director of the Vale Living With Lakes Centre, she leads the Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, a team dedicated to advancing freshwater ecosystem research and conservation. The distinction was presented personally by Dr. Jane Goodall herself, the globally renowned environmentalist. Dr. Goodall visited Sudbury for the world premiere release of her captivating IMAX Science North Film titled "Reasons for Hope."
“On my office wall hangs a poster showcasing many formidable women of science, women I look up to, Dr. Goodall among them. It is both humbling and awe-inspiring to be recognized with a fellowship bearing Dr. Goodall’s name. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to give more focus to the conservation work that my students and I do” said Dr. Litzgus.
During an intimate meeting to discuss their shared commitment to preserving nature, Dr. Goodall and Dr. Litzgus had the opportunity to engage with Tharusha Wijewardena, a remarkable Laurentian University student from Sri Lanka and a PhD candidate. In recognition of exceptional dedication to biodiversity conservation, Tharusha will be the recipient of a Jane Goodall Student Scholarship, an award made possible by Laurentian faculty and staff, the first of its kind at Laurentian University.
The joint efforts of Dr. Litzgus, Dr. Goodall, and the faculty members at Laurentian University exemplify their passion for environmental stewardship and their commitment to nurturing future leaders in the field of conservation biology. Recently, the University announced a commitment to join the Nature Positive University Alliance (NPUA), to support the prioritization of nature restoration within the higher education sector.