- Lisa Dabek’s recognition as a 2025 DeHaan Finalist highlights her extensive work in conserving endangered tree kangaroos.
- The Indianapolis Prize, celebrating its 20th anniversary, is recognized as the leading award for animal conservation worldwide.
- Lisa Dabek’s Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program in Papua New Guinea represents a significant advancement in both local and global conservation efforts.
- Woodland Park Zoo and its role in supporting pioneering conservation initiatives by researchers like Lisa Dabek.
- The impact of conservation awards like the Indianapolis Prize on global conservation efforts and public awareness.
Lisa Dabek’s recognition as a 2025 DeHaan Finalist is a testament to her enduring commitment to the field of conservation, particularly in her work with the endangered tree kangaroo. As a senior conservation scientist at Woodland Park Zoo, Dabek has spent decades developing programs that address the complex challenges faced by this unique marsupial species in Papua New Guinea. Her foundational work through the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program has contributed significantly to the preservation of these animals, integrating scientific research with cultural and community engagement strategies.
The Indianapolis Prize, celebrating two decades of honoring distinguished conservationists, has selected Dabek among its finalists for what is considered the world’s leading accolade in animal conservation. This prestigious biennial award recognizes individuals who have achieved substantial victories in the fight to save animal species. It underscores the contributions of scientists who are at the vanguard of species protection, often working under challenging conditions to study and secure the future of threatened wildlife populations.
Lisa Dabek’s efforts are exemplified in her innovative work in Papua New Guinea, where she founded the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program. This initiative not only focuses on preserving the endangered tree kangaroo but also extends to empowering local communities through education and sustainable resource management. By adopting a holistic approach that blends scientific inquiry with local ecological knowledge, the program aligns conservation goals with the needs of surrounding human populations, fostering cohabitation and mutual benefit. Through her leadership, the program has become a model for integrated conservation and community development.
The work done by Dabek is supported in part by the Woodland Park Zoo. As an institution dedicated not only to animal care and education but also to pioneering conservation initiatives, the zoo plays a crucial role in supporting professionals like Dabek who drive impactful environmental strategies. The zoo provides an essential platform for showcasing successful conservation efforts and educating the public on the importance of preserving biodiversity for future generations.
Furthermore, the recognition of Lisa Dabek by awards such as the Indianapolis Prize amplifies the visibility of her work and underscores the vital importance of conservation in global discourse. By highlighting significant achievements in species protection, these awards contribute to a wider awareness and understanding, encouraging further support from both the public and policymakers. The impact of such accolades extends beyond individual recognition, as they inspire a global community to take collective action in conservation endeavors.
As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, the work of conservationists like Lisa Dabek becomes ever more critical. Her contributions serve as a beacon of dedication and innovation, reminding us of the urgent need to protect our planet’s biodiversity. Her journey illustrates the profound impact that informed, committed actions can have on preserving endangered species and fostering harmony between human populations and the natural world.
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Good news: Lisa Dabek named as 2025 DeHaan Finalist for world’s leading animal conservation award for her decades of work with endangered tree kangaroos.
Congratulations to Lisa Dabek, PhD, senior conservation scientist at the zoo and founder of the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program in Papua New Guinea—the Indianapolis Prize has named six distinguished conservationists as DeHaan Finalists for the 2025 award, and Woodland Park Zoo is proud to announce that Lisa is among the six finalists.
The esteemed biennial award recognizes animal conservationists who have achieved major victories in saving an animal species or group of species. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Indianapolis Prize is the world’s leading award for animal conservation, honoring individuals who are at the forefront of species protection and research.
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