Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Eunice Mary Kennedy Shriver (July 10, 1921 – August 11, 2009) was an American philanthropist, diplomat, and activist who became one of the most influential advocates for people with intellectual disabilities. Born into the prominent Kennedy family, she initially worked as a teacher and social worker before becoming deeply involved in disability rights. In 1962, she founded Camp Shriver, a summer camp for children with intellectual disabilities, which evolved into the Special Olympics movement. The first official Special Olympics Games were held in 1968 at Soldier Field in Chicago, featuring athletes with intellectual disabilities competing in track and field events. Under her leadership, Special Olympics expanded to become a global organization operating in over 170 countries, transforming societal perceptions of disability and providing millions with opportunities for athletic competition and personal development. Eunice was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1984 in recognition of her pioneering work. Her legacy fundamentally changed how the world views and supports people with intellectual disabilities, making her one of the most consequential humanitarians of the 20th century.