February 11

Helene Kröller-Müller was born in 1869 in Germany and moved to the Netherlands after her marriage to Anton Kröller. Together they began acquiring works by leading artists of their time, including Vincent van Gogh and Piet Mondrian. In 1938 she opened the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Hoge Veluwe National Park to share her collection with the public. Her passion for modern art and her philanthropic vision helped redefine museum culture in Europe. Kröller-Müller supported artists financially and advocated for wider appreciation of avant-garde art. The museum remains famous for its extensive Van Gogh holdings and its sculpture garden. She died in 1939, leaving a lasting legacy in the art world.

Aasa Helgesen was born in 1877 in Norway and dedicated her life to supporting mothers and newborns in rural areas. She trained in midwifery at a time when access to professional healthcare was limited outside cities. Helgesen traveled to remote villages, often under difficult conditions, to ensure safe deliveries and educate families about hygiene. She introduced new maternal care techniques that reduced infant and maternal mortality in her region. Helgesen also taught and mentored younger midwives, helping to professionalize the field in Norway. Her diaries and reports influenced public health policies during the early 20th century. She died in 1968, remembered as a pioneer of rural midwifery.

John Warren Davis was born in 1888 and pursued a career in education during a period of racial segregation in the United States. He held leadership roles at several historically Black colleges, championing curriculum development and improved academic standards. Davis worked closely with civil rights organizations to dismantle educational barriers and increase college access. He published research on pedagogy and participated in national conferences on higher education reform. Davis mentored students and faculty, fostering an environment of intellectual rigor and social justice. His efforts contributed to the growth of institutions that served African American communities. He passed away in 1980, remembered for his lifelong commitment to education and equality.

Born Lucile Randon in France, she became a nun and took the name Sister André. She lived to the age of 118 years, 340 days, becoming the world's oldest known living person from April 2022 until her death in January 2023. In 2021, at age 116, she survived a severe case of COVID-19. Randon attributed her longevity to a balanced diet, faith, and a positive outlook on life. She devoted many years to serving residents in a retirement home in Toulon. Her birthdays were celebrated worldwide, and she received messages from figures such as the French President. Her long life spanned three centuries and witnessed profound social change.

Paul Bocuse led the modernization of French cooking in the 20th century. He was awarded three Michelin stars, which he held for over 50 years. Bocuse founded the Culinary School Institut Paul Bocuse and launched the Bocuse d'Or competition. His emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative presentation reshaped haute cuisine. He operated his flagship restaurant near Lyon, which became a global gastronomic destination. His influence extended to culinary training and the professionalization of chefs worldwide.

Mary Quant opened her boutique, Bazaar, on London's King's Road in 1955, revolutionizing youth fashion. She championed bold colors, playful patterns, and daring hemlines, becoming an icon of the Swinging Sixties. Quant invented the miniskirt, a garment that came to symbolize women's liberation and modern style. She expanded her brand internationally, launching cosmetics, accessories, and mass-market lines. Her designs were affordable, breaking the barrier between high fashion and everyday wear. Quant's influence reshaped the fashion industry and continues to inspire designers today.

David Taylor earned his veterinary degree before embarking on a career in television. He became a familiar face on programs dedicated to veterinary medicine and animal welfare. Taylor hosted shows that educated the public about pet health, wildlife conservation, and rural life. His approachable style and passion for animals won him a loyal audience across the UK. He advocated for improved standards in animal treatment and veterinary practices. Taylor remained active in professional associations and received awards for his contributions to veterinary broadcasting.

Alexander Emerick Jones, born on February 11, 1974, in Dallas, Texas, began his media career with local radio before launching InfoWars in 1999. He gained attention for promoting conspiracy theories regarding events such as the September 11 attacks and various government cover-ups. Jones’s outspoken style and sensational claims have led to multiple lawsuits, platform bans, and public controversies. Despite legal challenges, he has maintained a dedicated audience, expanding his reach through podcasts, video streams, and merchandise. Jones’s impact on alternative media and the spread of conspiracy culture remains significant, drawing both criticism and fervent supporters. His career highlights the complexities of free speech, misinformation, and modern media influence.

Born in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, Quebec, Laurent Duvernay-Tardif played CIS football at McGill University while studying medicine. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2014, he became a key member of their offensive line and won Super Bowl LIV. Concurrently, Duvernay-Tardif earned his medical degree in 2018. He opted out of the 2020 NFL season to volunteer as a clinician during the COVID-19 pandemic. His unique dual career has earned him wide recognition, including the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award. He exemplifies dedication both on the field and in healthcare.