Craig Cerretani, Phil LeBlanc and Ken Stanger left Northwestern Mutual in July 1998 with their dedicated staff of Betsy Welz, Joanne Ventresco, Terry Murphy and Ellen McMahon. Together they created a business plan that would become Longfellow Financial, LLC in November 1998. They were able to attract Joe Gray as a member/shareholder to run the Health and Welfare practice and then later to take on the role as Managing Partner of the firm.

From those humble beginnings, the firm has evolved into Longfellow Benefits and has grown to 27 dynamic associates over 10 years.

On the weekend of September 12th, Longfellow Benefits celebrated its 10th Anniversary at the Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, NH. 

In keeping with the Longfellow spirit that has made the firm one of Boston's Best Places to Work, associates enjoyed golf and spa on Friday ending with a scrumptious barbecue.  On to Saturday, it was time for 'Adult Recess' consisting of bocce, wiffle ball and flag football.  No major injuries were reported but perhaps a few bumps and bruises.

Saturday night's festivities included a few surprises.  During the cocktail hour, the founders of the firm were surprised with a 12 minute video created by our own Meghan Cooper that spanned the years and growth of Longfellow.  It included faces, old and new, and congratulatory messages from some of our clients.

In recognition of the appreciation for these 10 years, Joe, Craig, Phil and Ken (not shown) were presented with clocks with the following inscription from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:

"Build today, then strong and sure,
With a firm and ample base
And ascending and secure
Shall tomorrow find its place."