Benjamin Franklin Society
Established in 1955, the Benjamin Franklin Society (BFS) is the University of Pennsylvania’s leadership annual giving circle. Members of the Benjamin Franklin Society generously contribute $2,500 or more annually to The Wharton Fund. Recent MBA graduates, 0–4 years since graduation are able to join with gifts of $1,000 or more. Wharton thrives on support from Benjamin Franklin Society members.

Benjamin Franklin Society
Established in 1955, the Benjamin Franklin Society (BFS) is the University of Pennsylvania’s leadership annual giving circle. Members of the Benjamin Franklin Society generously contribute $2,500 or more annually to The Wharton Fund. Recent MBA graduates, 0–4 years since graduation are able to join with gifts of $1,000 or more. Wharton thrives on support from Benjamin Franklin Society members.
88%
Percentage of total dollars raised that came from BFS donors in Fiscal Year 2020.
1,899
The highest number of BFS donors on record (Fiscal Year 2019).
20%
Percentage of donors who gave at the BFS level in Fiscal Year 2020.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does someone become a Benjamin Franklin Society member? ↓
Donors always retain the right to be anonymous members and this does not affect their status as a Benjamin Franklin Society member.
The University and the Wharton School’s fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30.
How are BFS members recognized? ↓
Benjamin Franklin Society members also enjoy benefits such as early access to events and seminars, and an invitation to the annual BFS reception, as an added thank you for their generous leadership support of the School.
What gifts are included in the BFS? ↓
Gifts towards any fund or designation qualify a donor for membership in the University’s Benjamin Franklin Society.
Is there a minimum gift to qualify for BFS membership? ↓
For recent graduates (0-4 years out from graduation), the minimum annual donation amount is $1,000 or more to The Wharton Fund to qualify for the Young Franklin Society.
The University and the Wharton School’s fiscal year runs from July 1 through June 30.
For more information about the Benjamin Franklin Society, or questions regarding your support, please contact us at whartonfund@wharton.upenn.edu, or call +1.215.898.7868.
Thank You to Our Benjamin Franklin Society Donors
Your leadership as a member of the Benjamin Franklin Society is critical to Wharton’s ability to build on its tradition and legacy of excellence. BFS participation has an undeniable impact on the School’s ability to remain dynamic, resilient, and at the forefront of global business education and thought leadership.
Thank you for your leadership support of Wharton
“An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”

“An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”
