Susan Palomba honored as Elks Club Citizen of the Year

By Tara Vocino

Susan Palomba was honored as Citizen of the Year at the Saugus-Everett Elks’ Italian Night, a celebration of heritage, community and service, last Thursday night. This special event recognized Palomba’s contributions to both the Elks Lodge and the broader community – a momentous acknowledgment of her years of dedication.

In her moving speech, Palomba reflected on her deep connection to the Elks and the profound impact the organization has had on her life: “The Elks have become more than just a group to me – it’s a family,” Palomba said. “Together, we lift each other up, celebrate life’s joys and offer support in times of need. This lodge is truly my extended family.”

Palomba’s words captured the heart of what it means to be part of the Elks – service, friendship and commitment to the community.

Throughout her 20+ years as a member, Palomba has held various leadership positions within the Elks, including Exalted Ruler, a role she cherished as an opportunity to serve alongside her fellow members: “Supporting our Grand Exalted Ruler, Mike Zellen, in Texas and Arizona during my time as Exalted Ruler is a memory I will always cherish,” Palomba said.

She also spoke fondly of the many charitable events and memorable moments shared with her Elks family, from fundraising efforts to social gatherings that brought everyone closer together. Palomba’s speech was filled with heartfelt appreciation for her family, friends, and the Elks community that has been a constant source of support. She highlighted the deeper values she cherishes: “The Elks have been the thread that ties everything together for me,” Palomba said, “from my Italian roots to my love for this country, to the friendships I’ve made and the values I hold dear.”

Those in attendance told the Advocate what she means to them. Family friend David Pansini, of Saugus, said Palomba is a joyful person and kind. His father, Sandro, said she has done a great job on the Board of Directors at Saugus Television. “She is a nice and sweet person,” Pansini said.

Elks Chaplain and fellow realtor Ron Visconti said Palomba is a well deserving woman who has done so much for the community. Dr. Sherri Raftery, who attended high school with her, said Palomba is an inspiration and kindhearted and has a sense of community and responsibility – Salute.

These words captured the essence of the evening and Palomba’s deep-rooted connection to her Italian heritage.

Reflecting further, Palomba shared how her family’s journey has shaped her passion for service: “My parents’ love for this country became my love for this country, which has been passed down to our children, our community and into the universe,” Palomba said. “My Italian heritage has filled my heart with love – not just for my family, but for this great nation.”

She emphasized that life’s most important moments are often the simplest: “It’s the simple things that matter most in life – a kind word, a smile, a shared moment,” Palomba said. “And that’s what the Elks represent to me – a community of people who come together to lift each other up, to celebrate life’s joys and to support one another in times of need.”

Palomba also shared her gratitude for the recognition and how much it means to her: “This recognition is not just about individual effort, but about the teamwork, camaraderie and passion we all share within this incredible organization,” Palomba said. She spoke of the many ways the Elks have enriched her life and the lives of so many others, highlighting the organization’s commitment to helping those in need.

The evening also paid tribute to Palomba’s Italian heritage and the importance of honoring cultural traditions. She shared her pride in her roots, saying: “Food, family, and love – these are the cornerstones of our heritage, and they are the same values we share within the Elks community,” Palomba said.

The night wouldn’t have been complete without a special thanks to the dedicated individuals who made it all possible. Palomba extended her gratitude to the Elks’ Board of Directors, the House Committee, the kitchen crew led by Ron Delgenio, and everyone who contributed to the success of the event, especially chairperson Linda Fuller, and Lisa from Honey Bee Balloons for making the evening festive and beautiful.

As the night concluded, Palomba’s closing words left a lasting impression: “I am deeply honored to stand before you tonight, filled with gratitude for each of you, for this organization, and for the life I am so lucky to lead,” Palomba said. “Thank you for this honor – it will never be forgotten.”

Having been part of the Elks for over 20 years, she said, this experience has been one of the most fulfilling chapters of her life. The friendships formed, the events they’ve organized and the countless ways they’ve given back to those in need have all been deeply rewarding. “This recognition, to me, is not just about individual effort, but about the teamwork, camaraderie and passion they all share within this incredible organization.”

“I’m incredibly honored to receive this special recognition tonight,” Palomba said. “This award highlights individuals who have shown exceptional dedication, service and commitment to both the Elks Lodge and the broader community. Being chosen for such an honor is truly humbling, as it reflects the values of service and community that I’ve always strived to uphold.”

  When she first joined, she never imagined standing here today with this honor. The Elks have become more than a group to her – it’s a family. Together, they lift each other up, celebrate life’s joys, and offer support in times of need.

“This recognition inspires me to continue giving back to this community that means so much to me,” Palomba said. “I’m beyond grateful for the acknowledgment, and I look forward to continuing this journey with my Elks family, working to make our community stronger and carrying on the traditions that make us who we are.”

Palomba thanked everyone who attended and supported Italian Night 2024. This evening of celebration, family and service is a reminder of the power of community and the importance of giving back.