Museum of the Rockies to open immersive multimedia exhibit on the legacy of Jane Goodall

BOZEMAN - Jane Goodall, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and a United Nations Messenger of Peace, created an indelible legacy in the fields of science and conservation. That legacy is celebrated in "Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall," a new exhibit opening at Montana State University's Museum of the Rockies on Friday, Oct. 3.

The museum will host a member-only opening this evening at 5:30 p.m. It will feature a video that Goodall recorded exclusively for museum members. The evening will include family activities, a ribbon cutting and a discussion with primatologist Isabel Behncke.

Produced in partnership with the National Geographic Society and the Jane Goodall Institute, the exhibit explores Goodall's life, from her early years as a young woman with a dream to learn about animals in Africa and years establishing herself as a renowned scientist in Gombe, Tanzania, to her role as an activist, mentor and advocate for creating a better world. "Becoming Jane" will remain open through Jan. 18, 2026.

Goodall died on Oct. 1 at the age of 91.

"We join the world in mourning the loss of a legend: a champion for conservation and the natural world," said Christopher Dobbs, the museum's executive director. "Her passing makes it all the more important to carry on her message. By hosting this traveling exhibit, we honor the remarkable legacy and memory of Dr. Jane Goodall, celebrating her life's work and the inspiration she continues to share with the world."

Highlights from the exhibit include:

• A multiscreen experience where visitors are introduced to Goodall's work, alongside surprising encounters with virtually rendered chimpanzees.
• A replica of Goodall's research tent where, in a hands-on experience, visitors can envision themselves as scientists.
• A hologram-like projection of Goodall, who shares her memories in Gombe and recalls her thoughts, feelings, impressions and lessons learned while living among chimpanzees.
• An immersive projection of Tanzania's Gombe Stream National Park.
• Interactive augmented reality activities, including one in which visitors can test their skills at matching the pant-hoot vocalization of a chimpanzee.
• Updates on the current state of Gombe Stream National Park and the chimpanzee range in Africa, along with the work of the scientists and conservationists who are following in Goodall's footsteps.
• A call to action to visitors from Goodall to join the Jane Goodall Institute and National Geographic to ensure a more sustainable future.
• A pledge station where visitors can share what actions they will take to help advance Goodall's mission and legacy.

Museum of the Rockies is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the "Becoming Jane" exhibit is included with admission. Learn more at museumoftherockies.org.