Boston University celebrates thoughtful philanthropists through the Claflin Society, a membership group that pays tribute to alumni and friends of Boston University who have established a planned gift.

The Claflin Society was founded in 1985 by Elsbeth Melville (CAS'25), dean of women emerita, and was named for Boston University co-founder Lee Claflin, a prosperous, 19th-century shoe merchant, abolitionist, and philanthropist.

Since then, hundreds of alumni and friends have joined, contributing tens of millions of dollars to support BU students, faculty, and research programs through planned gifts.

"I think legacy is about connectivity, loyalty, gratitude, appreciation. Building a personal legacy here to me means providing opportunities for those who come after you, the next generation. Just as we were helped as youngsters, so do we want to help others." 

-Dave Walko (CAS '68) Claflin Society Member

Benefits of Membership

• The opportunity to create your own personally meaningful legacy


• Fast, personal assistance from a concierge dedicated to Claflin Society members to answer any requests or questions


• An invitation to the annual Claflin Society spring luncheon on campus


• Invitations to select regional alumni events


• Complimentary access to select Alumni Weekend events