September 16

Julia Drusilla (AD 16–38) was the daughter of the celebrated Roman general Germanicus and Agrippina the Elder. She was sister to the future Emperor Caligula and enjoyed exceptional status at the imperial court. Renowned for her charm and intellect, she wielded considerable influence behind the scenes during her brother’s reign. Her premature death at age 22 cut short a promising role in the Julio-Claudian dynasty.

Elizabeth de Clare (1295–1360) was one of the richest women in 14th-century England as a granddaughter of King Edward I. A shrewd landowner and benefactor, she founded Clare College at Cambridge University and supported numerous religious houses. Her three marriages forged important political alliances, and she adeptly managed her estates during turbulent times.

Clara Ayres was born in 1880 and trained as a registered nurse in the United States. In 1917, she joined the Army Nurse Corps to support American troops during World War I. Deployed to France, she provided critical care to wounded soldiers near the front lines. Ayres faced challenging conditions, including battlefield injuries and infectious disease. She contracted illness while treating patients and died in the line of duty later that year. Her dedication highlighted the vital role of nurses in wartime medicine. Ayres is remembered for her pioneering service and ultimate sacrifice at a time when women’s contributions were only beginning to gain recognition.

Born into Austrian aristocracy in 1891, Stephanie von Hohenlohe moved in elite European circles and forged friendships with influential politicians and industrialists. Undercover for German intelligence, she leveraged her social standing to obtain sensitive information on behalf of the Nazi regime. Her activities earned her a reputation as one of the Third Reich's most glamorous spies. During World War II she spent time in Britain and the United States, where authorities kept close watch on her networks. After the war she faded into relative obscurity, living quietly until her death in 1972.

Alexander Korda was born in Pusztatúrpásztó, Hungary, in 1893 and began his career making films in Central Europe before settling in the United Kingdom. In 1932 he established London Films and produced the Oscar-winning historical drama The Private Life of Henry VIII, starring Charles Laughton. His innovative production methods and international collaborations helped elevate British film on the world stage. Korda was the first filmmaker to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Director in 1933 and was later knighted for his services to the industry. He continued to produce and direct influential films until his death in London in 1956.

He launched the concept on radio as Candid Microphone before moving it to television in 1948. Candid Camera became one of the longest-running programs in TV history, delighting audiences with candid pranks. Funt's innovative format paved the way for reality TV and documentary entertainment. He produced over 600 television episodes and several feature films throughout his career. Funt continued to host specials into the 1990s, maintaining his reputation as a pioneer of unscripted comedy.

Patricia Wald made history as the first woman appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. She served on the bench from 1979 to 1999, authoring influential opinions on civil rights and administrative law. In 1999, she became the first female judge at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, advocating for justice after genocide. Throughout her career, she was recognized for her legal acumen, integrity, and dedication to public service. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of lawyers and judges.

Helen Williams broke racial barriers in the 1950s when she became a sought-after model for top designers like Christian Dior and Balenciaga. Her striking features and poise landed her covers of fashion magazines across Europe and the United States. Williams advocated for diversity in the fashion industry and mentored younger models of color. Her pioneering career opened doors for future generations of non-white models. She remained active in promoting racial equality in fashion until her death in 2023.

Walt Becker is an American filmmaker recognized for directing, producing, and writing popular comedy films. He co-wrote and directed Van Wilder: Party Liaison and directed Wild Hogs, which grossed over $250 million worldwide. Becker has also worked on television, producing series such as Clifford the Big Red Dog. He began his career as a screenwriter before moving into directing and production. His films often blend comedic humor with heartwarming moments that appeal to broad audiences. Becker continues to develop new film and TV projects in the comedy genre.

Shawntel Smith was born on September 16, 1971, in Oklahoma and pursued her interests in music and public speaking. She won the Miss Oklahoma title before competing on the national stage. In 1996, Smith was crowned Miss America, captivating audiences with her talent and poise. During her reign, she focused on promoting literacy and educational initiatives for young people. After her tenure, she continued to engage in charitable work, speaking at events and supporting nonprofit organizations. Smith's achievements in pageantry inspire future contestants and emphasize the importance of advocacy.