April 5, 2002

Jane Claflin is a familiar face at the MGH. For nearly 50 years, she has generously given her strength, wisdom and unflagging support to the hospital she loves — as a trustee, fundraiser and friend. As she steps down from her official philanthropic leadership role, many MGHers gathered to recognize her years of service to the hospital at a dinner March 22 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston.

Her relationship with the MGH started in the late 1950s when she joined the Ladies Visiting Committee and later was elected chairman of the organization. She served as a trustee from 1973 to 1989 and later became an honorary trustee.

Of her many contributions to the MGH, Jane Claflin (shown at left with husband Morton Claflin) is most noted for raising millions of dollars in charitable gifts for hospital facilities, people and programs. The many committees that have benefited from her advice, knowledge and perspective are numerous.

"The MGH has no advocate, friend or supporter more effective, loyal and good-hearted than Jane Claflin," says James J. Mongan, MD, president of the MGH. "The hospital is a much richer place because of her unwavering devotion and indomitable spirit."

On behalf of the MGH Board of Trustees, Edward P. Lawrence, chairman of the board, presented to Jane Claflin the prestigious Trustees Medal, a special honor only given five times in the past and only twice before to individuals associated with the hospital.

From left,  Thomas M. Claflin (the Claflins' son), Jane Claflin, Samuel Ward Cassells, MD, and John Parrish, MD.