Ben & Jerry's Co-Founder Talks With Calhoun Students

MERRICK, NY — As part of the Activism Club’s goals at Sanford H. Calhoun High School, members raise awareness of social issues and connect students with community-based initiatives. With this in mind, a member recently reached out to Calhoun alumnus Jerry Greenfield to participate in a Q&A session about activism efforts on a national and even global scale.

Greenfield and his partner Ben Cohen, both Calhoun class of 1969 Calhoun, started an ice cream store in 1978 with limited experience and grew it into a successful global company, Ben & Jerry’s.

“The brand has been involved with many important causes over the years,” said Erin Mormando, the club’s faculty adviser.

Students questioned Greenfield about maintaining profitability while supporting such historical movements.

“We had no idea what socially responsible business was or activism was,” Greenfield said. “It was something that developed as the business evolved. Business is a very powerful force in our country. It tends to act in its financial self-interest without thinking of the needs of everybody and we didn’t think this was right. People in the community then want to support that business in return. It’s almost a spiritual law that the good that you do comes back to you.”

Ben & Jerry’s tries to partner with nonprofit organizations that are on the ground level, harnessing their consumer influence.

“What you guys [Ben & Jerry’s] are doing is a model that other businesses should follow,” said Kacie Moschella, student moderator and club founder. “Even if we do small community-based activities, we can contribute to the lives around us.”

Greenfield was impressed with the club’s existence, which started last year.

“We’re just trying to bring social issues to light to see what we can do as a club together to help the community,” student Conlan Shea explained.

“Just the fact that you guys are doing this is so inspiring and I really appreciate it,” Greenfield said.