Primatologist Dr. Patricia C. Wright To Be Honored At “Stars Of Stony Brook Gala”

“Dr. Wright’s commitment to the people, nature and extraordinary wildlife of Madagascar makes her a true star, one worthy of our most high-profile honor,” said Dr. Samuel L. Stanley Jr. MD, President of Stony Brook University. “We are proud to add her to the list of others who have received this honor, most recently Alan Alda, Ed Harris and Julie Andrews.”

Stony Brook University will honor Dr. Patricia C. Wright, a Professors of Anthropology at the University during the Fifteenth Annual “Stars of Stony Brook Gala 2014” on Thursday, April 16.

Along with being a top primatologist in her field, Dr. Wright is also being congratulated for her work on her upcoming IMAX® documentary film “Island of Lemurs: Madagascar.” This documentary features narration from the award winning actor Morgan Freeman, and will be released in certain IMAX® and IMAX®3D theatres starting Friday, April 4.

The Stony Brook Professor is a recipient of the MacArthur “Genius Award” as well as a finalist for the 2014 Indianapolis Conservation Prize. She first visited Madagascar in 1987 and since that initial trip has made it a priority to improve the quality of life in Madagascar. Dr. Wright established the Centre ValBio research station which gives her students a chance to work and learn hands on in Madagascar.

In the past, “Stars of Stony Brook Gala” has raised over $33 million dollars for student scholarships and educational programs at home in Stony Brook, and around the world. 100 percent of every donation during the evening goes towards scholarships. Richard L. Gelfond, the CEO of IMAX Corporation who also serves as Chairman of the Stony Brook Foundation Board of Trustees and will Co-Chair the Gala with James H. Simons.

“Dr. Wright’s work is inspiring and eye opening,” said Gelfond. “Her expertise on the lives of these magnificent creatures and other wildlife in Madagascar is one I know will touch the hearts of many as well as bring awareness to a part of the world not often seen.”

“Stars of Stony Brook Gala” will take place at Pier Sixty in New York City. The Gala begins with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m.

For more information visit stonybrook.edu.