Your name...
You are quite astute…it is a family name, on Daddy’s side, originating from the English patrons that bear the same title. Virginians are notorious for continuing names throughout generations – regardless of gender! In fact, If I were not “Somers”, I would have been called “Polk”, after my grandfather! And…. my sisters names’ are Kellam and Caramine!
Where were you born?
I am a Virginian, of an old Tidewater family, born on Chesapeake Bay.
What do you love about New York? What's the first thing you do upon returning?
I echo many when I say I appreciate New York for its energy and opportunities -- it is the gateway to so many disciplines and diversities and the capital of numerous industries—where wall street, meets main street meets Broadway meets Pennsylvania Avenue meets Hollywood meets Davos!
I too love New York for her residents, who are exceedingly generous; I am blessed that in this great city, I have been able to raise millions for charitable causes. I love New York for all she has taught me – she is a kind city – and though perhaps not a patient teacher – certainly a worthy, and forgiving one.
And, the first thing I do when I return Manhattan – call Mother and tell her I have landed safely!
Who are your role models?
This is an easy question: my Mother was, and remains, my role model. I am the woman I am because of my Virginia upbringing. Virginia is a matriarchal society, and though both parents were benefactors, my sisters and I learned of our civic duty by Mother’s example. It was she who served as the President and Chairman of the Board of numerous non-profit organizations and medical alliances.
How do you describe the term "socialite"?
The American Heritage College dictionary defines socialite as “one prominent in society”. I too agree a socialite is someone about whom others are curious. Prominence not with standing, I think the important part of being a socialite, however, is that one should also be a respected member of society – a role model, a philanthropist, and aspiration for others.
And, you have called me a socialite – and though I do not at all consider myself prominent, I have tried to use any visibility to promote charitable causes in which I am involved – Lighthouse International, the ASPCA, the Alzheimer’s Association, and The New York Women’s Foundation.
What is it like chairing an event?
I consider chairing an event an honor – and an exciting, exhausting one! And though it is a privilege to have your name at the top of the invitation, it requires a tremendous commitment of time, energy, resources, and humility – a Benefit Chairman is constantly asking others to do and donate any, and everything. The title of Chairman is earned, and one that is not bestowed lightly – days are filled with solicitation and business phone calls, conference calls, fundraising and committee meetings, and strategic planning sessions.
And remember, a benefit does more than simply raise operating revenue – they are instrumental in increasing the awareness of an institution and its mission. A relatively innocuous charity can blossom into an organization with a multi million dollar operating budget because of a must-attend annual benefit!
I think chairing an event today is comparable to chairing a fundraiser a decade ago…a chairman and her committee still need to inspire support and encourage a loyal donor base. We too are constantly considering innovative ways to fundraise – entertainment ideas, venue opportunities, new menu choices, and compelling ways promote the organization’s message…all the while decreasing expenses, maintaining a standard, and courting personal and corporate largesse. And, I echo the concerns Mother had when she was Chairing an event – will guests have fun, will we reach our goal, will the speeches run too long, will people like their table seating, will people be inspired to give more.. and will it rain?
How do you choose whom to invite?
Because there are many noble causes to support, I try and invite those whose passion and interest resonate with the mission of the charity I am supporting. For example, I would invite friends and acquaintances who love animals to the ASPCA Bergh Ball; or friends personally concerned or affected with vision loss or impairment to consider Lighthouse International.
And, yes, fundraising is political – every name on my personal mailing list is considered, as are the notes which accompany an invitation. Also sensitive is the seating and table placement…New York is a small city, and, personalities run large, so it behooves a chairman to know as much about her guests as she can!
It is rarely the sole responsible of the chairman to confirm 400 guests – her vice chairmen and committee are also largely supportive.
What are the important things to remember when chairing an event?
- Grace under pressure
- Acknowledge everyone with whom you worked, and take personal credit for nothing.
- Be kind and gracious to all guests – a sponsor donor deserves the respect of a platinum contributor.
- And a 4th……Seating, seating seating!
What do you do for fun?
Visit friends, sunbathe, ride…or just do nothing.
Whom do you most want to meet?
Rather than meeting, the person I’d most like to see again is my Father – he died 22 years ago.
Now for your favorite foods...
As you have said…and as The Plaza prepares so beautifully for me…I love your salad and also a great steamed lobster!
What are your favorite books and films?
My favorite book is Portrait of A Lady, by Henry James. My favorite film is anything a friend is starring in or directed!
Describe the most fabulous party you ever attended.
My most memorable dinner was a private birthday party hosted at Blenheim Palace, for 400 guests in white tie and ball gowns. Cocktails were in the drawing room, and the dinner was in the main dining hall – the hostess thoughtfully placed the guests at 2 long tables down the center. And what made it special, was the love of the hostess for her birthday boy, and the admiration the guests also shared.
What is your greatest fear?
Sharks
What is the perfect dress?
A simple black cocktail dress, exquisitely made by Maggie Norris.
What is your advice to future chairmen and chairwomen?
Life and society are what you make of it. Though you will often encounter abundance, try and maintain self control, a self-effacing humor, avoid envy, and always behave like a lady or a gentleman. Check your arrogance, find something good in a situation, keep your promises and be as generous as you can.
Somers' Recipes
A Divine Crab Salad
1 pound backfin lump crabmeat - best if you use fresh picked Blue Crabs from Chesapeake Bay!
3/4 cup chopped celery2 tablespoons lemon juice
A pinch of salt
A sprinkle of pepper
2 tablespoons-ish of low fat mayonnaise combined with low-fat yogurt
1 teaspoon capers
Rinse crab meat and gently comb for any remaining shells, then mix kindly with remaining ingredients and chill. Serve in a bed of bibb lettuce, nestled with thick tomato slices – peeled - or with tomato aspic. Crab Salad is also divine with sliced cantaloupe.
Iced Mint Tea
3 tea bags or the equivalent in loose tea
6 sprigs fresh mint
2 cups of boiling water
1 cup of sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
grated rind of 1 lemon
Steep tea bags and fresh mint in boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain and add sugar, lemon juice and lemon rind. When guests are ready, add cold water, ice and serve in sterling-silver julip cups.
