Ohio University students often find themselves looking for a sweet treat to get after a long day of exams, studying and extracurriculars. It is convenient when there is a place to fulfill those sweet treat cravings right on the corner of Court Street and Union Street. Whit’s Frozen Custard is a beloved part of the Athens community.
Whit’s was first opened in Granville in 2003 by Chuck and Lisa Whitman, and the location quickly became a valued family business. The family style of the original Whit’s was reflected in each store that opened across the U.S., as each location is family-owned.
Terry Wells is the owner of the Athens store, and the general manager is Jay Miller. Miller has been with the business for about 10 years and is the main caretaker of the business.
Miller makes sure that Whit’s is a safe space for people of all backgrounds and communities, as he makes sure his sign on the door is visible to all. Miller has basic rules of no sexism, no racism and no homophobia in his store to keep a positive and uplifting environment.
Miller also appreciates his current staff, as he feels they have become a very tight-knit group who enjoy each other's company. The staff is hardworking, which makes his job much easier, and he said he is thankful for the staff he has on board.
“Right now in this particular moment, all of my employees are simultaneously becoming friends,” said Miller. “I have times where I’ll have employees not get along very well. I love to see them get along and hang out outside of work, too.”
Isabelle Coulter, a junior studying graphic design, has been an employee at Whit’s for a little over a year. She noted how busy the business can get.
“The beginning of the school year (is the busiest),” said Coulter. “I was here over the summer, and it would have busy moments. Once all the students came back and it was really hot outside, there were lines out the door and down the street.”
Coulter discussed the community feel of the job. She said she enjoys the overall atmosphere of the job and appreciates the positive vibes the job provides.
“(The job) is pretty fun,” said Coulter. “I like all my coworkers and our general manager creates like an overall good vibe for everybody. It's obviously when the weather's really nice though. It's busy, but it's doable with the coworkers that we have.”
Gavin Carrig, a sophomore studying journalism news and information, frequents Whit’s and is an avid fan of its frozen custard. He finds himself going there often after covering a basketball game.
“I like how there's many throughout Southeast Ohio,” said Carrig. “I feel like each one is tailored to the certain community that it serves.”
Carrig also finds there is a certain atmosphere when going to a Whit’s that makes the whole experience more positive.
“I think the community vibe is super cool,” said Carrig. “And I like to see how they intertwine that into each location.”
Whit’s has an expansive menu, and there is sure to be something for everybody. Whit’s generally has a price range from anywhere between $2 and $7, making the custard affordable for students and Athens residents.
“I like to keep an open atmosphere here,” said Miller. “I like seeing people from all varieties and all backgrounds in the same place.”
