Since 2006, the Indianapolis Prize has been awarded biennially to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to conservation efforts involving a single animal species or multiple species. This week, Lilly’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Bart Peterson had the honor of presenting Dr. Steve Amstrup with the prestigious Indianapolis Prize. As the chief scientist of Polar Bears International, Dr. Amstrup has not only done valuable research on the disappearing polar bear habitat, but continues to fight an incredible battle to protect polar bears under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. In recognition of his work, Amstrup will receive a $100,000 unrestricted cash award and the Lilly Medal.

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The Indianapolis Zoo initiated the prize as a significant component of its mission to empower people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance animal conservation. The Eli Lilly and Company Foundation has provided funding for the Indianapolis Prize since its inception. As a founding funder for the Indianapolis Prize, Lilly has helped to underwrite the science-based selection process and cash award for the winner. Lilly’s support of the award underscores our commitment to being a responsible steward of the environment. Why does a pharmaceutical company place such an emphasis on environmental conservation? As the back of the Lilly Medal reads, “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe.”