The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce awarded the Marvin S. Gilman Bowl to Frank and Donna Masley on Wednesday, at the Annual Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business awards luncheon.
The Masleys founded Masley Enterprises, Inc. in 2000, to provide specialized hand wear solutions, structured to meet the needs of the U.S. military.
The award recognizes excellence in business and community, but also served as a moment of tribute to Frank, who died earlier this year. Donna Masley accepted the award, accompanied by two of their three children, Steven and Paige.
“The Gilman Award signifies outstanding achievements and model approaches to the business and management. I will speak for Frank, and I know he would be so graciously proud that Masley Enterprises is now part of the Gilman Bowl club,” Donna Masley said.
The Gilman Bowl was established to recognize those who have exhibited small business leadership. It is named in memory of Marvin S. Gilman, a home-builder, and developer known for his service to the community
The identity of the winners of the Gilman Bowl was held in confidence until its presentation at the awards luncheon.
Frank Masley left his position as a product specialist at W. L. Gore when he realized there was a great need for improved gloves for the military.
With the support of his wife Donna, a pediatric nurse for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, his vision came to life.
In 2000, Frank, the former Olympic athlete and wife Donna launched Masley Enterprises, Inc. out of their home basement.
The business owners then made another risky move by purchasing a facility in the 3rd District of Wilmington, which the Masleys, along with the help of their workers, cleaned up and renovated themselves.
Frank was insistent that a wall is turned into a window so the team could enjoy the view of their grounds. They hired residents of the city of Wilmington with challenged backgrounds, many of whom never held regular or steady jobs before joining the company.
The building location allows many team members to walk or bike to work, and lets the company utilize HUB Zone opportunities available for government contractors.
Kim Allison, Masley Enterprises employee and family friend, shares memories of Frank buying the team water ice in the summer, Donna baking brownies on her Sundays off, and Frank making the team take breaks to go feed the ducks because “it was the right thing to do.”
“Frank and Donna have led this business by example. There is never judgment about someone’s past, but a vision of who that person can be… Seeing the beauty in the community, and in each other, is what we all strive for so we can Be Like Frank,” says Kim, referencing the BeLikeFrank Foundation created by the Masleys in order to continue Frank’s legacy of leadership and community service.
The event, held at the Hotel du Pont’s Gold Ballroom, also honored eight outstanding companies as Superstars in Business and Award of Excellence winners. The winners can be viewed at www.dscc.com. The program included video tributes to the Superstars in Business award winners, as well as keynote remarks by Mac Nagaswami, the CEO and co-founder of Carvertise.
