An Evening with Don and Lucy

Join the Institute of Human Origins (IHO) Research Council and ASU Institute of Human Origins Director and Professor Yohannes Haile-Selassie for a lively and engaging evening with IHO Founding Director Donald Johanson as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the discovery of IHO’s “founding fossil,” Lucy! Johanson is an Honorary Member of The Explorer’s Club, speaker and guide for the National Geographic Society, and ASU Virginia M. Ullman Chair in Human Origins.

In November 1974, a young scientist—Donald Johanson—was on his third expedition to the deserts of Hadar, Ethiopia, with an international team of scientists. Johanson and graduate student Tom Gray were heading back to their Land Rover when Johanson spotted a bone sticking out of the side of a hill—the first fossil bone that would become one of the most famous human ancestors—Lucy! Though controversial, Johanson would name it as a new species—Australopithecus afarensis.

Johanson has spent his entire career as a public voice for the science of human evolution and an advocate for human’s responsibility to connect with the natural world—speaking with public and scientific audiences around the globe.

Don’t miss this chance to meet Dr. Johanson as he recounts the details of that eventful day, the importance of the discovery, and how connecting the human past is important to our global future.

All funds will be deposited with the ASU Foundation for A New American University, a nonprofit organization that exists to support ASU. Tax identification 86-6051042. Gifts in support of ASU are subject to foundation policies and fees. Due to the fair market value of benefits received, only payments in excess of fair market value may be considered a charitable contribution. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of charitable contributions.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Lakeside at the Phoenix Zoo, 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, United States