June 21

Daniel Carter Beard (1850-1941) was an American illustrator, writer, and youth movement pioneer best known for co-founding the Boy Scouts of America in 1910. He created 'The Boy Pioneers' magazine, inspiring children with stories of frontier adventures and outdoor skills. Beard's illustrations and writings promoted self-reliance, woodcraft, and respect for nature, shaping the early Scouting ethos. He integrated elements of American folklore and patriotism into youth programs, influencing generations of young participants. As National Scout Commissioner, he advocated for educational initiatives that combined character building with practical knowledge. Beard's legacy endures in scouting organizations worldwide.

Jacques Goddet was born in 1905 and began his career as a journalist for L’Auto, the newspaper that created the Tour de France. In 1936, he succeeded Henri Desgrange as the race’s director and led it through decades of growth and challenge, including the interruption of World War II. Under his stewardship, the Tour expanded its global reach and tackled new mountain routes that became its signature challenges. Goddet advocated for fair competition and took a strong stance on doping issues. He served as director until 1987, making him the longest-serving head in the event’s history. His influence shaped professional cycling into a premier international sport.

Born in 1911 in Brooklyn, New York, Fein started as a publicist before transitioning to television production in the 1950s. He became Jack Benny's longtime manager and executive producer, guiding the comedian's successful transition from radio to television. Fein produced iconic programs such as 'The Jack Benny Program' and 'Blondie', earning several Emmy nominations. His keen talent for comedic timing and audience insight set the standard for variety show formats. Fein also worked with other leading entertainers and published memoirs recounting his experiences in show business. He remained active in the entertainment industry until his retirement in the 1990s, leaving a lasting impact on television production.

Paolo Soleri was born in Turin, Italy in 1919 and studied under Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin. In 1946, he moved to Arizona, where he founded the Cosanti architect studio and built his signature earth-formed concrete structures. He introduced the idea of ‘arcology,’ integrating architecture with ecological principles to design sustainable urban habitats. Soleri lectured internationally and influenced generations of architects interested in environmental design. His experimental city Arcosanti remains a living laboratory for his theories. He continued to work and teach until his death in 2013 at the age of 93.

Hébert began his career as a reporter for Ottawa newspapers, focusing on social issues and urban affairs. In 1970, he co-founded Katimavik, a national youth volunteer program promoting community service and cultural exchange. Appointed to the Senate in 1971, he championed affordable housing and improved social welfare for marginalized communities. Known for his outspokenness, he used his journalistic background to scrutinize government policies and media practices. After retiring from public life, he continued writing and lecturing on civic engagement until his death in 2007.

Spadolini began his career as a historian and editor of the influential newspaper 'Il Resto del Carlino'. He served as Minister of Cultural Heritage and Education before becoming Prime Minister from 1981 to 1982. His tenure focused on economic stabilization, anti-corruption measures, and strengthening European integration. After his premiership, he continued shaping public discourse as a senator and Senate president until his death in 1994. Spadolini’s blend of scholarship, journalism, and politics marked a turning point in Italian public life.

Born in 1932, Bernard Ingham began his career as a journalist before entering public service. He served as press secretary to Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher from 1979 to 1990, shaping the government's communications strategy. Ingham was known for his direct style and influence over media relations during a transformative era in British politics. After leaving Downing Street, he continued writing and lecturing on political communication and journalism. His memoirs and commentaries offer a unique insider's perspective on 1980s Britain.

Marjorie Margolies began her career as a journalist and television correspondent before entering politics. In 1992, she was elected to represent Pennsylvania's 13th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. During her term, she made headlines by casting a decisive vote for the federal budget, which helped secure President Clinton's economic plan. Margolies later worked as a public policy consultant and advocate for women's and children's issues. After leaving Congress, she returned to journalism and public speaking. Throughout her career, she has championed healthcare reform and education initiatives.

Shirin Ebadi was born in 1947 in Hamadan, Iran, and became one of the country’s first female judges in 1969. Following the 1979 revolution, she was dismissed from the judiciary and turned to human rights advocacy. She founded the Defenders of Human Rights Center in Tehran to support women, children, and political prisoners. In 2003, Ebadi became the first Iranian and first Muslim woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts. She has written and lectured internationally on democracy and the rule of law. Despite facing government harassment, she remains a leading voice for free speech and social justice. Ebadi’s work has inspired activists around the world.

Derek Emslie, known by his judicial title Lord Kingarth, is a distinguished Scottish lawyer and judge. Born in 1949, he practiced at the Scottish Bar, specializing in civil litigation. In recognition of his legal expertise, he was appointed as a Senator of the College of Justice, serving on Scotland's supreme civil court, the Court of Session. Lord Kingarth has presided over significant cases and is known for his clear legal reasoning and commitment to justice. His judgments have contributed to the development of Scottish law.

Sir Terence Etherton rose through the British legal system to become one of the country's most senior judges. He served as a Justice of the High Court before his appointment as Master of the Rolls in 2016. Etherton was the first openly gay person to hold such a high judicial office in the UK. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion within the legal profession. After retiring in 2021, he continued to influence legal thought through lectures and advisory work.