Irvin C. Shaffer

Class of 1977

Irv was born in New York City on March 18, 1899. He worked as a civil engineer after graduating from Cooper Union College. During World War I, he served as a Naval architect.

In 1925, Irv joined his brother-in-law, Samuel Born, in the candy business. His brother, Jack Shaffer, followed one year later. After opening a factory in Brooklyn, the trio moved the business to Bethlehem, PA, in 1932 under the name of Just Born, Inc. Today, Just Born is known for its iconic brands, which include Marshmallow Peeps, Mike and Ike, Hot Tamales, Zours and Teenee Beanee jelly beans.

Irv didn’t relocate to Bethlehem with the company, remaining in New York to manage sales. When Just Born acquired the Maillard Corp. in 1936, he was named president. Maillard, a French chocolate company, was founded in Montalimar, France in 1840, and established in New York City by Henry Maillard in 1848. Irv also headed the Shaffers-Born Realty Co.

Irv was honored with the prestigious Kettle Award in 1953, an indicator of outstanding contributions to the industry. He served as vice-president of the National Confectioners Association, dean of the National Candy Wholesalers Association and as president of the National Candy Salesman’s Association and New York Candy Club. He was also honored by the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies of New York.

Irv passed away in 1985, one year after his wife, Gladys. At the time of his death, Irv was survived by his brother Jack (deceased 1996), their sister Ann Born (also since deceased), and nephews Ross Born and David Shaffer, co-CEO’s of Just Born, Inc.