March 29

Born in 1668, Thomas Coram spent years sailing to the Americas and the West Indies before retiring to London. Disturbed by the plight of orphaned and abandoned children, he campaigned tirelessly for a charitable institution. In 1739, he secured a Royal Charter to found the Foundling Hospital, the first children's home in Britain. Coram's initiative combined philanthropy with social reform, providing care, education, and housing for hundreds of children. He dedicated his later life to the institution's welfare, and upon his death in 1751, his work had transformed child care in Britain.

Brian Huggins (1931–2013) began his career in journalism in England before moving to Canada, where he became known for incisive reporting on cultural and political events. Alongside his work in print media, he pursued acting roles in theatre, film, and television, showcasing his versatility across mediums. His journalistic integrity and stage presence earned him respect from audiences and peers alike. Huggins often brought a storyteller’s eye to both his articles and performances, bridging the worlds of news and art. His legacy endures through his multifaceted contributions to Canadian culture.

Ralph Klein (1942–2013) transitioned from a career in journalism to become Mayor of Calgary and later served as the 12th Premier of Alberta from 1992 to 2006. As Premier, he implemented sweeping fiscal policies that eliminated the provincial deficit and fostered economic growth through tax cuts and investment in infrastructure. His candid, folksy leadership style made him a popular figure, though his policies sparked debate over social service funding. Klein guided Alberta through an oil-driven boom, leveraging resource revenues to reshape the province’s financial landscape. After politics, he remained active in public life, advocating for environmental stewardship and business interests. He is remembered as a pragmatic reformer whose tenure left a lasting imprint on Alberta’s governance.

Sarah Onyango Obama gained international recognition as the step-grandmother of U.S. President Barack Obama, but she was a passionate advocate for education in her own right. She founded a primary school and an orphanage in Siaya County, Kenya, providing opportunities for hundreds of children. Her philanthropic work focused on empowering girls and supporting vulnerable communities. She was honored by both local and international organizations for her tireless service. Her life spanned nearly a century of community leadership and educational outreach.