San Diego, CA – October 22, 2024 – After 45 years of visionary leadership, Joe Dannis, founder of DawnSignPress, a leading publisher in American Sign Language (ASL) education and Deaf culture resources, has retired. Renowned for his commitment to advancing ASL education and Deaf culture, Joe established the business with a mission to create high-quality resources that serve and empower the Deaf community. He has produced and published influential works that still shape conversations about Deaf identity and culture, including landmark titles like A Journey into the Deaf-World by Harlan Lane, Robert Hoffmeister, and Ben Bahan.
While stepping back from day-to-day operations, Joe will remain involved as an owner and board member, ensuring that digital innovation will continue to influence the company’s future.
With more than 15 years of experience in strategic leadership and innovation, DawnSignPress’s new CEO, Ryan Maliszewski will guide the company further into the digital age. The company will expand its offerings in digital formats, adapting more of its books for digital use, and releasing digital courses. This will include the highly popular Signing Naturally Series by authors Ella Mae Lentz, Cheri Smith, and Ken Mikos, as well as The Effective Interpreting Series by author Carol Patrie.
Most recently, as founder of SiloHack, Ryan provided strategic consulting for growth and innovation across sectors. He served as CEO of Mozzeria, led the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Institute at Gallaudet University, and held key leadership roles with the FBI. "I am excited to join DawnSignPress and continue supporting the ASL and
signing community by expanding resources that empower both learners and educators," stated Maliszewski.
In late October 2024, Dannis will embark on a trip to England as his first activity in retirement to spread awareness of Seeing Through New Eyes: Deaf Culture and Deaf Pedagogies - The Unrecognized Curriculum, authored by esteemed Deaf activist Paddy Ladd. By sharing insights from this influential work within Ladd’s home country, Dannis aims to further amplify the book’s impact on understanding and teaching Deaf education. His efforts underscore DawnSignPress’s commitment to promoting inclusive and culturally rich educational resources on a global stage.
For more information, please contact LaurenB@dawnsign.com To learn more about DawnSignPress, visit www.dawnsign.com