Invite-Only: Inside the Private Society of The Syracuse Celebrators

Last Saturday, July 19th, I had the chance to attend an event called the “Summer Splash” hosted by the Syracuse Celebrators. If you haven’t heard of them, it’s because they’re a super-exclusive, invite-only club for professionally established Black men. Now I’m sure you’re wondering how I stumbled upon an invite, but I’ll get into that later (we love a good cliff hanger).

Anyhow, from the moment I got the invitation, I knew this wasn’t just another event. It felt like stepping into something truly special and honestly, I was blown away. With an active membership of 11 professionals (plus the late Van Robinson, honored as the 12th), this club, founded in the 60's, includes doctors, attorneys, judges, business owners, and more. Their mission is to leave work stress outside and create a safe space to speak freely, receive real brotherly advice and just have fun.

This particular event at Syracuse's Inner Harbor was for friends and family, and because an invitation must come directly from existing members, there’s already this unspoken confidence that if you’re here, you’ve got something to offer.

I was able to meet some really cool people, including:

• Stanley Matthews, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon who’s recently opened his own practice.

• Brian Pollard, a Dentist and Author prepping for his upcoming book signing, and self-proclaimed “troublemaker” of the group.

• Melody S Johnson, an Entrepreneurship Coach for BIPOC women, passionate about empowering new leaders. Our conversation was just unforgettable.

Also, don’t let their age fool you, the party delivered:

• Live music set a lively, laid-back tone.

• Delicious food kept the conversation (and laughs) flowing.

• Genuine camaraderie had everyone relaxed, swapping stories and reconnecting, no agendas, just for fun.

  
  

It was a reminder that even the busiest of us need moments to pause, connect, and recharge.

Now, *Cue music* one of the coolest stories that came out of this experience is the story of how I got invited!

I actually ran into the club’s president, Terry Woodfork, the day before the event completely by chance. I arrived at the Salt City Market on Friday for a meeting about the blog and when I arrived Mr. Woodfork was already at the meeting table conversing. I didn’t know he would be there (or really anything about him), but I sat down, joined the existing conversation and spoke about my blog as planned. It was the perfect introduction and after our almost 2-hour conversation, he told me about the Celebrators and invited me to cover the Summer Splash event for their website. Of course, the thought of this secret society intrigued me so I didn’t hesitate to say yes and I’m so glad I did.

Walking away from the Summer Splash, I felt proud, recharged, and inspired by every person I met. Everyone was so passionate about what they do and so willing to share a nugget of advice with me. So, to the Syracuse Celebrators, and to all who gather in spaces of true authenticity and fun, may your circle remain strong, and your celebrations continue to be ever so meaningful.