Jerry Greenfield

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Quick Bio

Jerry Greenfield is best known as the co-founder of Ben & Jerry's Homemade Holdings Inc., an American company renowned for its ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet. He was born on March 14, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York, and alongside Ben Cohen, established their first ice cream shop in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont. Known for its unique flavors and social responsibility, the brand became a global icon under their stewardship.

Early Life

Jerry Greenfield was born on March 14, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York. During his early childhood, his parents were stationed at military bases. He grew up in Merrick, Long Island, New York, where he met Ben Cohen during his school years. Details about Greenfield's early childhood reveal that he had a middle-class upbringing in a Jewish household.

Education

Jerry Greenfield graduated from Calhoun High School in Merrick, Long Island. He then attended Oberlin College in Ohio, where he completed a pre-med curriculum, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biology in 1973. Although he initially aspired to be a doctor, he couldn't secure admission to medical school, guiding him to entrepreneurial pursuits. Greenfield also took a correspondence course on ice cream making from the Pennsylvania State University’s Creamery, which eventually became instrumental in his career.

General Stuff

Jerry Greenfield’s commitment to social responsibility is among his most notable characteristics. He set up Ben & Jerry's with a focus on social and economic missions, emphasizing progressive business practices. From humble beginnings in a renovated gas station, Ben & Jerry's grew into a major brand known for advocacy in environmental and social causes. Inducted into the United States Small Business Administration Hall of Fame in 2011, Greenfield continues to actively engage in philanthropy and advocacy on social issues.

Emotional/Love Life

Jerry Greenfield married Elizabeth Skarie in 1987, and together they have a son. Despite the demands of building Ben & Jerry's, he nurtured his personal and family life, maintaining a strong relationship with his spouse and family. Greenfield's partnership with Ben Cohen extends to a close friendship formed during junior high school.

Dreams and Fantasies

Unknown.

References

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