Florence Devouard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Florence Devouard
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Devouard in 2023
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| Chair of the Wikimedia Foundation | |
| In office 21 October 2006 – 17 July 2008 |
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| Preceded by | Jimmy Wales |
| Succeeded by | Michael Snow |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 10 September 1968 Versailles, France |
| Spouse | Bertrand Devouard |
| Children | 3 |
| Occupation | Consultant in Internet Communication Strategy, Chair Emeritus of the Wikimedia Foundation |
Florence Jacqueline Sylvie Devouard was born on September 10, 1968. She is a French agricultural engineer. This means she uses science and engineering to help with farming and food production. Florence Devouard was the leader, or chair, of the Wikimedia Foundation's board of trustees. She held this important role from October 2006 to July 2008.
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Education and Early Career
Florence Devouard studied at special schools in France. She earned a degree in agronomy. Agronomy is the science of soil management and crop production. She also studied genetics and biotechnologies. These fields involve understanding how living things inherit traits and how to use living systems for technology.
Public Service Role
On March 9, 2008, Florence Devouard was chosen to be a member of the local government council in a town called Malintrat. This shows her involvement in public service.
Leading the Wikimedia Foundation
Florence Devouard joined the board of the Wikimedia Foundation in June 2004. The Wikimedia Foundation is the non-profit organization that runs Wikipedia and other free knowledge projects.
Becoming Chair
In October 2006, Florence Devouard became the chair of the board of trustees. This means she was the main leader of the board. She took over from Jimmy Wales, who helped start Wikipedia. She served as chair until July 2008. After her time as chair, she continued to advise the Foundation.
Wikimedia France
Florence Devouard also helped start Wikimedia France in October 2004. This is a local group that supports Wikimedia projects in France. She was the vice-chair of its board from 2011 until December 2012.
Special Recognition
On May 16, 2008, Florence Devouard received a special honor from France. She was made a knight in the French National Order of Merit. This is a very important award given by the French government to people who have done great things for their country or for the world. She was recognized for her work as the "chair of an international foundation."
See also
- List of Wikipedia people
