Legacy, Leadership, and a Luxe Morning of Giving: Champagne Brunch Benefits Southampton African American Museum

The Southampton African American Museum (SAAM) gathered a distinguished crowd of cultural icons, philanthropists, and supporters for its summer Champagne Brunch fundraiser at the Southampton Inn on a brilliant Hamptons morning. Chaired by renowned philanthropist and author Jean Shafiroff alongside SAAM Founder and CEO Brenda Simmons, the elegant affair supported the museum’s ongoing campaign to fund its operations and build its endowment—ensuring the preservation of a powerful legacy.

SAAM holds a deeply rooted place in both local and national history. Officially opened on Juneteenth 2021, the museum occupies a former Black barbershop affectionately known as “The Barbershop”—a cultural cornerstone for the African American community in Southampton since the 1940s. It became the first Black-owned site to receive historical landmark designation in the Village of Southampton and is the first barbershop in the U.S. to be transformed into a museum.

As attendees sipped champagne and mingled beneath the summer sun, the museum honored several changemakers with awards celebrating their contributions to the arts and community empowerment. Donna Rodrick, National President of Drifters Inc., and Nikki Paul, SEPA Chapter President of Drifters Inc., were each recognized with the Community Empowerment Award. Marianne Morrison received the Visionary Supporter of the Arts Award, and Dr. Georgette Grier-Key was honored with the Champion of the Arts Award. Actress Novi Brown, known for her role in SISTAS on BET Networks, was celebrated with the Bold Voice in the Arts Award—her presence underscoring the event’s dedication to elevating Black voices in entertainment and culture.

The brunch followed the momentum of the 4th Annual Art and Soul: Hamptons, a dynamic celebration of Black art and heritage co-hosted by SAAM, the Southampton Arts Center, and Hidden Gem NY. That same energy carried through the morning as guests gathered to reaffirm their commitment to preserving Black history in one of the country’s most storied enclaves.

Among the notable guests in attendance were Jean Shafiroff, Brenda Simmons, Novi Brown, Martin Shafiroff, and New York State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright. Their support, along with that of the event’s sponsors—including Let’s Champagne, April + Ashley, Symphony of Leaves Tea Co., Art & Soul Hamptons, Dion Magazine, Planned by Sue, and New England Sweet Water—helped amplify SAAM’s mission and impact.

Chairing the brunch was Jean Shafiroff, an unwavering force in the world of charitable giving. Known globally for her philanthropic leadership, Jean serves on the boards of eight major nonprofit organizations and chairs more than eight galas annually. Her dedication spans causes from women’s rights and animal welfare to underserved communities and healthcare access.

She is the author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give and the host of the television program Successful Philanthropy. Her advocacy and influence have earned her recognition as a global ambassador for giving. From underwriting charity galas in her homes to elevating nonprofit missions on international platforms, Jean Shafiroff continues to redefine what it means to be a philanthropic leader.

What began in 2005 as the East End African American Museum and Center for Excellence has evolved into SAAM’s permanent home at 245 North Sea Road. The transformation of The Barbershop—once a social hub for Black Southampton residents—into a museum represents more than architectural preservation; it is a restoration of history, memory, and voice.

The Champagne Brunch not only raised crucial funds but also reinforced the museum’s role as a vital cultural institution. In a region known for its exclusivity and tradition, SAAM offers a necessary counterpoint—one that honors the Black experience and invites a deeper understanding of the American story.

In the Hamptons, where heritage and elegance often converge, the Southampton African American Museum’s Champagne Brunch was a meaningful reminder that history and philanthropy can share the same table. By honoring Black excellence, recognizing community builders, and spotlighting cultural visionaries, the event offered more than just a sparkling toast—it provided a powerful platform for preservation and progress.