BU’s exclusive leadership giving community
The 1839 Society is a giving society for some of Boston University’s most generous supporters. Donors are welcomed into the society when they give $1,000 or more to the University in a fiscal year. Members of the 1839 Society are leaders in philanthropy. They equip BU students to move forward—and become the next generation to make a difference.
Have questions? Email us at the1839@bu.edu or call (617) 353-5300.
Join nowBenefits Young AlumniGiving Options
Benefits for members
Concierge service
Receive fast, personal assistance from a concierge dedicated to 1839 Society members. Whether you need help with parking or have questions about a campus visit, your request will be addressed within 24 hours.
1839 Society reception
Meet and mingle with University leaders, alumni, donors, and friends at this elegant cocktail reception, held at a premier campus location over Alumni Weekend.
Stakeholder’s call
Gain insider knowledge on the state of the University at this special town hall. Broadcast to donors worldwide, the virtual event is your opportunity to ask questions and hear directly from senior University leaders.
Harvey Young – Dean, College of Fine Arts
Azer Bestavros – Associate Provost for Computing & Data Sciences
Society newsletter
Learn about the impact of your giving in this quarterly e-newsletter, which features donor profiles, student stories, and other University news relevant to society members.
Membership for Young Alumni
Introductory rates for the 1839 Society
If you graduated from Boston University in the last nine years, you are eligible for a special introductory rate to the 1839 Society. Your membership fee is based on your class year.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join BU’s elite community of donors—and enjoy all the perks of membership—at a reduced rate.
Join your way
Lead the way by supporting the area at BU that means the most to you.
Academics | Enable excellence in research and teaching
Academics are fundamental to what makes Boston University a world-class institution. When you make a gift to academics, you help disseminate knowledge, advance research, and turn insights into action—for the benefit of BU, and beyond. We encourage you to donate to the academic issues, institutes, or initiatives that feel personally meaningful to you.
Support Academics
Athletics | Support your favorite team
Gifts to BU Athletics go far. They fund upgrades to our fleet of training and racing shells. They provide access to new training, wellness, and recovery technology. They support GPS workload and video subscription services. And much more. When you give to BU Athletics, you don’t just prove your loyalty to the Terriers. You make BU student-athletes better.
Support Athletics
Scholarships | Make education accessible for all
As part of a competitive financial aid package, scholarships maximize the affordability of a BU education while minimizing the prospect of high student loans. When you give to scholarships, you open doors to every student who wants and deserves to come to BU. What’s more, you become a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Support Scholarships
Student Life | Create a sense of belonging
Student Life encompasses a wide range of student activities, clubs, and centers that help students meet, connect, and build community with others who share their interests and values. When you give to Student Life, you help transform what BU means to its students: More than just a school, it’s the place where they belong.
Support Student Life
1839 Society events photo recap
1839 Society NYC Leadership Reception 2024
1839 Society Leadership Reception/Alumni Weekend 2023
2022 Inaugural 1839 Society reception
Have questions? Email us at the1839@bu.edu or call (617) 353-5300.
