35 Facts About Jerry Greenfield

Early Life and Education

Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, has a fascinating background that shaped his journey. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early life and education.

1. Born on March 14, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York, Jerry grew up in a middle-class Jewish family.
2. He met his future business partner, Ben Cohen, in junior high school during gym class.
3. Jerry attended Oberlin College in Ohio, where he majored in pre-med.
4. Despite his pre-med focus, Jerry never attended medical school.
5. At Oberlin, he worked as an ice cream scooper in the cafeteria, sparking his interest in the frozen treat.

The Birth of Ben & Jerry's

The iconic ice cream brand started with humble beginnings. Here are some key moments that led to the creation of Ben & Jerry's.

6. In 1977, Jerry and Ben took a $5 correspondence course on ice cream making from Penn State University.
7. They initially considered starting a bagel business but found the equipment too expensive.
8. With $12,000 ($4,000 borrowed), they opened their first ice cream shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont, in 1978.
9. The first flavor they created was vanilla, which remains a classic favorite.
10. Their innovative mix-ins, like chunks of cookies and candy, set them apart from other brands.

Business Philosophy and Practices

Jerry Greenfield's approach to business is unique and socially conscious. These facts highlight his philosophy and practices.

11. Ben & Jerry's was one of the first companies to offer employee benefits to same-sex partners.
12. They implemented a policy where the highest-paid employee could not earn more than five times the lowest-paid employee.
13. Jerry and Ben are known for their strong stance on social and environmental issues.
14. They established the Ben & Jerry's Foundation in 1985, donating 7.5% of the company's annual pre-tax profits to community projects.
15. The company sources Fairtrade-certified ingredients whenever possible.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the ice cream empire, Jerry Greenfield has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some lesser-known facts.

16. Jerry married Elizabeth Skarie in 1987, and they have one son, Tyrone.
17. He is an avid fan of the Grateful Dead and has attended numerous concerts.
18. Jerry enjoys playing the saxophone in his free time.
19. He is a vegetarian and advocates for animal rights.
20. Jerry has a passion for social justice and frequently speaks at events promoting corporate responsibility.

Awards and Recognition

Jerry Greenfield's contributions have not gone unnoticed. Here are some accolades and recognitions he has received over the years.

21. In 1988, Ben & Jerry's won the U.S. Small Business Person of the Year Award from President Ronald Reagan.
22. The company has received multiple awards for its environmental initiatives.
23. Jerry and Ben were inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 2004.
24. They received the Peace Corps' John F. Kennedy Service Award in 2000.
25. In 2015, they were honored with the James Beard Foundation's Humanitarian of the Year Award.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Jerry Greenfield's life is filled with fun and quirky moments. Here are some light-hearted facts to enjoy.

26. Jerry and Ben once held a "Free Cone Day" to celebrate their first anniversary, a tradition that continues today.
27. They created a flavor called "Cherry Garcia" in honor of Jerry Garcia from the Grateful Dead.
28. Jerry's favorite Ben & Jerry's flavor is Cherry Garcia.
29. He has a cameo in the 1999 movie "Half Baked," starring Dave Chappelle.
30. Jerry and Ben once drove an ice cream truck across the country to promote their brand.

Legacy and Impact

Jerry Greenfield's legacy extends beyond ice cream. His impact on business and society is profound. Here are some final facts about his enduring influence.

31. Ben & Jerry's continues to be a leader in corporate social responsibility.
32. The company actively supports climate change initiatives and renewable energy projects.
33. Jerry and Ben's story is often used as a case study in business schools.
34. They have inspired countless entrepreneurs to pursue socially responsible business practices.
35. Jerry remains actively involved in advocating for progressive causes and mentoring young entrepreneurs.

The Scoop on Jerry Greenfield

Jerry Greenfield's journey from a humble ice cream lover to co-founder of Ben & Jerry's is nothing short of inspiring. His commitment to social causes, environmental sustainability, and community engagement sets him apart. Jerry's story isn't just about ice cream; it's about making a positive impact on the world.

From creating unique flavors to advocating for social justice, Jerry's legacy continues to grow. His dedication to ethical business practices and philanthropy shows that success isn't just measured in profits but in the difference one makes.

Next time you enjoy a scoop of Ben & Jerry's, remember the man behind the brand. Jerry Greenfield's life is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a strong sense of purpose. Keep these facts in mind, and you'll appreciate your ice cream even more.