A Legacy in Every Gesture: Celebrating CWU's Primate Program

We invite you to attend a day of events honoring Central Washington University’s Primate Programs and Washoe, the matriarch chimpanzee.

If you plan to attend, please RSVP HERE

Schedule of Events:

Friday, May 16, 2025

Panel Discussion

1:00pm – Dean Hall 104

Engage in a conversation about the history and impact of Central Washington University’s Primate Programs.

Museum Exhibit Opening

2:00pm – Museum of Culture and Environment (Dean Hall)

Explore an exhibit that tells the story of Washoe and the Primate Programs of Central Washington University.

Dedication Event

3:00pm – Dugmore Hall, East Patio

Join us to dedicate the newly installed rock columns celebrating Washoe, Loulis, Tatu, Dar and Moja. The program will feature special guest speakers, including Dr. Roger Fouts, Debbie Fouts, Dr. Crickette Sanz and former trustee Ron Dotzauer.

President’s Reception

4:00pm – University House Lawn

To close a day of celebration, join President Jim Wohlpart and First Lady Sasha Wohlpart for heavy appetizers, music and conversation on the President’s Lawn.

All events will take place on Central Washington University’s campus in Ellensburg.

We hope that you will join us for this special day in memory of Washoe and all of the chimps that used to call CWU home.