Indianapolis Prize Unveils New Award
Dr. Amanda Vincent is the 2021 winner of the Indianapolis Prize. (photo courtesy of Indianapolis Prize)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indianapolis Prize has announced a new award designed to recognize the efforts of conservationists early in their careers. The Emerging Conservationist Award is designed to support conservationists under 40 “with the talent and determination to make a significant impact on saving an animal species or group of species.”
The Indianapolis Prize is an initiative of the Indianapolis Zoological Society Inc. and considered the world’s leading award for animal conservation. Like the Indianapolis Prize, the Emerging Conservationist Award will be awarded every two years, beginning in 2023.
The winner of the Emerging Conservationist Award will receive $50,000 to invest in their conservation work. Dr. Rob Shumaker, chief executive officer of the Indianapolis Zoological Society, says the award serves as a catalyst to energize the next generational of animal conservationists.
“The Indianapolis Prize is a prestigious global award that supports the work of conservationists who have had a significant impact on saving an animal species,” Shumaker said in a news release. “I’m thrilled this new award will keep promising young conservationists active in the field.”
Last week, Dr. Amanda Vincent received the 2021 Indianapolis Prize, and the $250,000 that comes with it, for her work on seahorse conservation. Vincent was announced as the winner in 2020, but the presentation of the award was delayed due to the pandemic.
“I’m thrilled by the announcement of the new Emerging Conservationist Award,” said Vincent. “Knowing young conservationists will follow in my footsteps, along with other Prize Winners and Finalists, provides a deep sense of joy. It’s wonderful to know these young leaders will continue to advance important work to save species while also inspiring a new generation to protect our natural world.”
The inaugural Emerging Conservationist Award will be presented during the 2023 Indianapolis Prize Gala on September 30, 2023 in Indy.