The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Nestled in the foothills of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund stands as a beacon of conservation, research, and education. Opened in February 2022, this state-of-the-art facility honors the legacy of Dr. Dian Fossey, a pioneering primatologist whose groundbreaking work laid the foundation for mountain gorilla conservation. The campus, funded in part by a generous donation from television icon Ellen DeGeneres and her wife, Portia de Rossi, is a testament to their shared passion for wildlife preservation.

A Legacy of Conservation

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund has been at the forefront of mountain gorilla conservation for over 50 years. Established by Dian Fossey in 1967, the organization has played a critical role in protecting this endangered species, whose population has steadily increased due to concerted efforts by conservationists, governments, and local communities.

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus represents a new chapter in this ongoing mission. Its innovative design and advanced facilities are tailored to foster research, engage the local community, and inspire global action for wildlife conservation.

What the Campus Offers

The campus spans 12 acres and comprises several key components, each designed with sustainability and education in mind:

1. Conservation and Research Center:
   This facility serves as the hub for gorilla research and conservation efforts. Scientists and researchers use the center to monitor gorilla populations, study their behavior, and develop strategies to mitigate threats such as habitat loss and poaching.
2. Education Center:
   Aimed at fostering a love for conservation, the education center hosts interactive exhibits, films, and workshops. It is designed to inspire visitors, especially young people, to learn about gorillas and the broader ecological systems of which they are a part.
3. Community Engagement:
   The campus emphasizes collaboration with local communities, offering programs that promote sustainable livelihoods and highlight the interconnectedness of people and nature. By empowering nearby communities, the campus helps ensure the long-term success of conservation efforts.
4. Sustainability:
   The campus itself is a model of environmentally conscious design, utilizing solar power, rainwater harvesting, and green construction techniques. This commitment to sustainability reflects the Fund’s dedication to protecting not only gorillas but also their entire ecosystem.

A Destination for Global Conservationists

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus is more than a research and educational facility—it is a global center for conservation excellence. Visitors from around the world can tour the campus to learn about gorilla conservation and the role of community engagement in protecting biodiversity. The campus also offers opportunities for volunteers, students, and researchers to contribute to its mission.

Impact on Mountain Gorillas and Communities

Since its establishment, the campus has amplified the Fund’s capacity to safeguard mountain gorillas. By integrating conservation science with community outreach and education, the initiative addresses the root causes of threats to gorilla populations. Local communities, in particular, benefit from the campus through employment opportunities, conservation education, and support for sustainable practices.

A Symbol of Hope

The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. It not only honors the memory of Dian Fossey but also creates a brighter future for mountain gorillas and their habitat. For visitors, conservationists, and the global community, the campus stands as a call to action—a reminder that protecting our planet’s wildlife is a shared responsibility.