The Trophy

Bob Shain was the catalyst behind the Donald A. Sullivan Commemorative Trophy. He worked with Don for many years and recognized his dedication and commitment to the masonry craft and the men and women who chose to make it their profession.

The idea for the trophy was one that would be reflective of Don’s actions and beliefs. It would be built to a standard that transcends craftsmanship, and will exhibit to future generations the appreciation we have for our craft, and the respect we had for Don Sullivan.

We chose a highly acclaimed artist in Modesto to build the trophy. Steve Beauchamp is a renowned woodcarver, with an exceptionally creative mind. We decided to combine Black Walnut and a white marble as the main materials, with enough detail to promote a sense of elegance. Once completed, the trophy would measure 20 inches wide, 12 inches in depth and 28 ¼ inches tall. The total weight would be 42 lbs. Our friends at Folsom State Prison, Rob Purvis and Lyle Brown agreed to build us a shipping crate, which would serve to protect the trophy during transport each year. The case can also be used as a stand for displaying the trophy.

The meaning of the Trophy

The trophy begins with a solid wood base that measures just less than two inches in thickness and displays an intricately molded edge.
The base is reflective of Don’s strong foundation based on his education, experience and sense of fairness.

There is a raised platform with a marble floor integrated with a molded wood nosing “Donald A. Sullivan Commemorative Trophy” is hand carved into the lower face. The raised platform is symbolic of apprenticeship and the rounded corners make reference to the smoothness and grace with which Don conducted himself. The enhanced, detailed corners of the riser also reflect strength and stability. The marble is indicative of Don’s affection for natural stone and the contrast of dark wood and white stone reflects his view of equality toward all people.

A chrome-plated trowel is mounted onto the stage using an acrylic base. The trowel symbolizes the bricklayer’s craft and the relaxed angle makes reference to Don’s calm, laid back manner.

Two columns rise from the platform. Brass plates have been attached for listing the names of the winner of the trophy each year.
The two columns are symbolic of the apprenticeship committee, which is made up of trustees from the union and trustees from the Contractors Associations.

The two columns are tied together with an arch. Hand carved into the face of the arch are “Pride and Principle” and “Selfless Service”. On the keystone are the letters DS. The arch is symbolic of Don’s efforts as chairman of the JATEC for many years’ . The inscriptions make reference to his actions and beliefs.

For the back wall, between the columns we used marble. There is a brass plate attached just below the arch which reads:
“Don Sullivan dedicated himself to the masonry industry for nearly 50 years. He worked successfully with industry leaders and BAC Local #3 in Northern California. It is through the memory of his tireless, unselfish efforts and indefatigable spirit that we can take great pride in our craft as we work toward the goals he envisioned for the betterment of all”.

The marble once again indicates his affection for stone with the contrast in color reminding us of his view of equality towards all people. The brief statement on the brass plate is for future generations who will not know first hand how fortunate we are that Don Sullivan chose masonry as his life’s work.

The back wall continues above the arch with an intricately molded corbel. We could have stopped at the arch and had a fine trophy. However, the trophy was meant to be reflective of Don Sullivan, the man. The portion above the arch is meant to symbolize his efforts going beyond apprenticeship and the masonry industry