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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
On January 28th 2026, Boston University Planned Giving, was proud to host the Claflin Society virtual well-being webinar, Eating Your Way to Longevity with Dr. Joan Salge Blake. This webinar marked the first in a new series focused on well-being and healthy living.
We are pleased to offer a recording of the webinar below as well as Dr. Salge Blake's accompanying recipe list.
At our 2025 annual Spring Luncheon, the Clalfin Society was joined by the College of Fine Arts School of Music: Opera Institute to perform select pieces from their program. Please enjoy the recording of their performance below.