Dahod Family Alumni Center at the Castle
The Castle was donated to Boston University in 1939 and served as the home of BU presidents until 1967. It has played a part in countless Scarlet Key ceremonies, weddings, and other events—to say nothing of at least three Hollywood films. But it began its life, more than a century ago, as the home of Boston businessman William Lindsey and his family. In 2018, after a much-needed renovation and thanks to the generosity of donors—including a gift from BU Trustee Shamim Dahod (CGS’76, CAS’78, CAMED’87) and her husband, Ashraf Dahod—the Castle became the home of the Dahod Family Alumni Center. If you’re a Terrier, that means it’s home to you.
Visit your Alumni Center
Located at 225 Bay State Rd, Boston, MA 02215, the Dahod Family Alumni Center is open to visitors five days a week (Mondays through Fridays) from 9 am to 5 pm. Please note that holiday and intersession days may affect these hours.
This respite for all BU alumni is a place to meet with friends, reconnect with your alma mater, relax or work in the Hollowell Alumni Lounge, and enjoy a stylish meal in the classically redesigned BU Club. See how you can explore your home on campus:
Explore the Castle's history and architecture
Designed by the Boston architectural firm Chapman & Frazer and completed in 1915, the mansion cost $500,000 to build—more than $11 million in today’s dollars. It occupied an unusually large lot, three times as wide as a typical Bay State Road townhouse and covering 6,267 feet in all. Before the state created an embankment to accommodate the Esplanade (and later Storrow Drive), the Charles River came nearly to the back of the building.
Inside, you will first encounter the Feltenstein Commons, where hand-carved oak and mahogany panels, along with a split-run staircase and a massive hooded fireplace, create a medieval mood. Pick up a BU pin and print your Alumni Card at the front desk or take a stroll through the Castle’s first floor. (Note: Alumni cards are also available electronically. Follow these instructions to access your digital card.)
Cozy up with a book at the Tutor Library
The
Alumni Authors Collection hosts a plethora of books by alumni authors. Grab a book, cozy up by the fire or take your selection to the patio, and enjoy.
If you’re a BU author, we’d love to put a copy of your book on these shelves. To donate a book, please send it to:
Boston University Alumni Association Dahod Family Alumni Center
225 Bay State Road
Boston, MA 02215
Relax or work in the Hollowell Alumni Lounge
With its elegant charm and inviting atmosphere, the Lounge provides a welcoming and comfortable environment for alumni to gather and connect with one another. The Lounge features a work area, comfortable seating, and beautiful woodwork, all of which combine to create a sense of warmth and intimacy. Whether you’re looking to catch up with old friends, get some work done while visiting campus, or simply relax and unwind, the Hollowell Alumni Lounge is the perfect place to do so.
Reserve a table at the BU Club
Enjoy a stylish meal in the classically redesigned
BU Club, featuring the inventive cuisine of Executive Chef Amin Belkadi. Guests will enjoy a wide array of entrée selections including an assortment of vegetarian and vegan items, a robust salad bar, and bite-sized appetizers all served by our team from a buffet. Patrons will also appreciate an assortment of wine and beer, many of which are hand-selected based on their sustainability practices.
Book a table at the BU Club
Grab a pint or a burger at Fuller’s BU Pub
Host an event at the Dahod Family Alumni Center
One of BU’s most popular venues, the Castle is ideal for weddings, milestone events, corporate retreats, and more. With its stunning architecture and unique charm, this venue is sure to impress your guests and create a memorable experience for everyone involved. As an alum, you are eligible for discounted Facility Usage Fees. Learn more about the services available through the
BU Events & Conferences website.
Check out Undergraduate Admissions
The Alan & Sherry Leventhal Center, attached to the Dahod Family Alumni Center and providing accessible entrance to the Castle, has served as BU’s new Admissions Reception Center since its remodeling in 2014. Named after Alan and Sherry Leventhal, the Undergraduate Admissions Center serves as the gateway to the BU campus experience. Review their
Visitor Center’s hours here.
To see more information about BU’s graduate admissions, explore the BU Graduate Education website.