Claflin (1916-2020) was a loyal and steadfast advocate and supporter of Mass General, of women in academic medicine and of philanthropy, and she leaves behind her a long-lasting legacy at Mass General—including the creation of the Women in Academic Medicine Committee, the Office for Women’s Careers, the hospital’s Backup Child Care Center and the Claflin Distinguished Scholar Awards. Her relationship with the hospital began in the late 1950s when she joined the Ladies Visiting Committee. In 1961 she was elected chairman of the organization, and in 1971 she also became the chairman of the Volunteer Service Committee. Claflin served as a Mass General Trustee—the first female trustee—from 1973 to 1989 and then became an Honorary Trustee.

For nearly 50 years, she raised millions of dollars in charitable gifts for hospital facilities, people and programs.