Western Connecticut State University celebrated the life and legacy of conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall on Wednesday evening at its Midtown campus in Danbury.

The event, “Honoring Dr. Jane Goodall: Her Vision, Her Voice, Our Future,” highlighted WCSU’s nearly 30-year partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, a global nonprofit dedicated to wildlife research, education, and conservation.

Through the Jane Goodall Center for Excellence in Environmental Education, founded at WCSU in 1995, the university has become a hub for environmental learning, community engagement, and youth empowerment. The Center connects students with grassroots organizations and local service projects — from after-school programs to animal shelters and environmental initiatives — encouraging young people to take action for people, animals, and the planet.

Speakers and students reflected on Goodall’s influence at WCSU and her message of responsibility that continues to inspire new generations of changemakers.