There is a famous quote that "if you love something, set it free", so it is with immense pride and emotion that I acknowledge that it is time for me to step aside from the open source project, company, and legacy that I helped create and transition my responsibilities at DNN Corp.
After nearly 14 years of working on one of the most widely deployed open source CMS platforms, the company and I have concluded that it’s time for me to seek new opportunities that build on these experiences. My passion for building products and ecosystems that make an impact on the world is as strong as ever and I look forward focusing my energy and creativity along similar lines.
During my tenure at DNN, the open source project and company achieved great success and received many industry accolades - some of which I would have never dreamed remotely possible at its humble inception. The company has grown into a mature enterprise with high quality products that are mission critical to customers worldwide. I have also been blessed with establishing many genuine relationships and trusted friendships within the DNN ecosystem which I know will endure forever.
It is inspiring and gratifying to think of the millions of people who have been touched by the DNN open source project in the past decade. I am not just talking about software developers; successful open source projects create powerful economic platforms and two-sided markets which allow entrepreneurs of modest backgrounds, education, business experience, culture, and financial resources to overcome adversity, unleash their creativity and achieve amazing things. DNN has not only changed the lives of many people worldwide - it changed my life as well.
It is impossible to count the blessings I have received over my years at DNN Corp. I am humbled by the professionalism and passion of everyone I have had the good fortune to work with at this amazing company.
I have always promised myself when the right time came for me to change direction, I would be brief, unlike my typical lengthy CTO blog posts. And I realize that there may be some theories or speculation about my departure from DNN Corp but I can assure you that this was a mutual decision that was only made after significant reflection and consideration by myself and the company.
I’ve always believed in strong leadership during times of change, so effective immediately I will assist however needed to ensure a seamless transition.
I am very excited for what the future holds for DNN.
With my deepest appreciation,
Shaun Walker