Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology logo

Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology

Boston, MA

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

1908
Founded
Private college
Type
500
Undergrad
$4M
Endowment
Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Aisha Francis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology

From Benjamin Franklin's vision to cutting-edge technical education, empowering diverse futures.

Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology stands as a testament to a groundbreaking vision, tracing its roots directly to a 200-year plan outlined in Benjamin Franklin's 1789 will. This unique legacy blossomed in 1908 with the institute's opening, further supported by a significant gift from industrialist Andrew Carnegie, laying the foundation for an institution dedicated to practical, technical education.

Today, the private college is a vibrant hub for technical career pathways, purposefully designed to empower students often underrepresented in post-secondary education. Under the leadership of President Aisha Francis, it offers a focused and accessible educational experience, prioritizing skills and knowledge that directly translate into rewarding careers. Its commitment to its mission was reinforced in 2020 when the board of trustees decisively voted to remain an independent institution, eschewing merger talks to better serve its unique student body.

Marking an exciting new chapter, the institute is preparing to open a purpose-built, 85,000 square feet campus at 1011 Harrison Ave. in Roxbury in January 2026. This move positions the college closer to the communities it serves, enhancing student access and experience. Furthermore, a transformational $12.5 million gift from the Cummings Foundation in 2022 not only bolstered its mission but also led to the college's renaming, solidifying its future as a beacon of opportunity and innovation in technical education.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1908, based on a 200-year philanthropic plan established by Benjamin Franklin's 1789 will.
  • Initial funding derived from Benjamin Franklin's £1,000 gift (worth about $112,000 in 2010) and an additional gift from Andrew Carnegie.
  • Received a transformational $12.5 million gift from the Cummings Foundation in 2022, leading to its current name.
  • Opening a new 85,000 square feet campus at 1011 Harrison Ave. in Roxbury in January 2026, strategically located closer to student communities.
  • A private college dedicated to creating technical career pathways for students typically underrepresented in post-secondary education.
  • Led by President Aisha Francis, focusing on practical, career-oriented learning.

Timeline

1789
Benjamin Franklin established a 200-year plan for £1,000 (approx. $4,400) in his will for the city of Boston.
1908
The institute opened its doors, funded by Franklin's trust and an additional gift from industrialist Andrew Carnegie.
2019
Announced plans to sell its original campus and construct a new facility, later confirming a move to 1011 Harrison Ave. in Roxbury.
2020
Potential merger talks with Wentworth Institute of Technology were leaked, but the board voted to remain independent in November.
2022
Received a $12.5 million gift from the Cummings Foundation and was renamed Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology.
2025
The current South End campus is scheduled to close on December 24.
2026
The new 85,000 square feet campus at 1011 Harrison Ave. is scheduled to open in January.
🏛️
118 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Aisha Francis
President and CEO

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search