 | Makenna is an entrepreneur from St. Paul, Minnesota. She discovered her passion for ASL in high school and continued her learning journey by enrolling in American Sign Language Interpreting program at Saint Paul College after graduating with her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Bethel University. She now has her American Sign Language Studies Certificate and runs her own Social Media Management business, Entirely Bonkers Media Co, which helps business owners tell their stories authentically online. Makenna is excited to be part of the Sign Language Blitz team and to use her expertise to help develop the platform. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing with her two cats, and visiting all the local coffee shops in the Twin Cities area. |
Makenna Cook / February 27th, 2025 
Deaf entrepreneurs across the globe are defying stereotypes and proving that hearing status poses no barrier to success as they carve out paths as small business owners.. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / February 27th, 2025 
A village sign language once widely used on Martha’s Vineyard island from the early 1800s until 1952, Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language (MVSL) was utilized by both Deaf and hearing community members, so Deafness was not a barrier to public engagement.. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / February 27th, 2025 
36 years ago, the ‘Deaf President Now’ movement ignited a revolution. What began as a fight for the first Deaf president at Gallaudet University blossomed into an international conversation about representation. Deaf President Now paved the way for future generations to embrace their Deafness with pride. Even decades later, the. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / January 14th, 2025 
Super Bowl LVIX, set for February 9, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona, will feature an exciting and historic moment for the Deaf community. This year, the Super Bowl performances will include three highly skilled and accomplished American Sign Language (ASL) performers: Stephanie Nogueras, Matt Maxey, and Otis Jones IV. These incredible. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / January 14th, 2025 
The National Association of the Deaf has just announced the 2024 Super Bowl performers for Super Bowl LVIII. They are Daniel Durant, Anjel Piñero, and Shaheem Sanchez. Super Bowl LVIII will take place on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Academy Award winning actor Daniel Durant will perform the. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / October 29th, 2024 
Since their launch in 2016, Apple’s AirPods have transformed the way we experience audio, now they have added a function that will allow Deaf and hard-of-hearing people to use them as hearing aids. Over the years, AirPods have seen significant upgrades. Early models paved the way for advancements such as. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / October 29th, 2024 
Today, we honor the birthday of Abbé Charles-Michel de l’Épée, born on November 25, 1712. A visionary educator and advocate, de l’Épée made groundbreaking contributions to the world of Deaf education. In 1760, he founded the first free public school for the Deaf in Paris, Institut National de Jeunes Sourds. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / September 27th, 2024 
October is Audiology Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of hearing health and the critical role audiologists play, especially within the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Effective communication is the foundation of connection, and understanding diverse methods, including American Sign Language (ASL), enriches our interactions and fosters inclusivity. The. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / August 31st, 2024 
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of celebration and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that make up the Hispanic and Latin American world. One aspect of this diverse heritage that often goes unnoticed is the vibrant realm of Spanish and Latin American Sign Languages. Understanding. . . + Read More
Makenna Cook / July 31st, 2024 
In today’s society, the need for accessibility and support for the Deaf community is increasingly recognized. Among the innovative solutions that have emerged is the invaluable partnership between Deaf individuals and service dogs. Deaf service dogs play a vital role in bridging the communication gap, empowering Deaf individuals, and promoting. . . + Read More
