Capen graduated from Tufts in 1860, and while there he was a founding member of the Kappa Charge of Theta Delta Chi.

[1] He relinquished his seat after one term in order to finish his studies and graduate with his class.

Capen presided over the continued expansion of course and program offerings at Tufts, and the beginning of co-education (over his own objections) in 1892.

The residence he constructed for himself and his family while president, at 8 Professors Row, is still known as Capen House.

His wife was Mary Leavitt Edwards (1860-1944; married to Sumner Robinson following Elmer Capen's death).