Honoring the Legacy of Petey Cerf and William Dann

Black and white image of Petey Cerf, an older women with short silver hair waring a white turtle neck and coat holding a picture of the Audio-Reader building. Dick Wright stands next to her holding a microphone.
Petey Cerf pictured with KANU’s Station Manager at the time, Dick Wright.

Audio-Reader was founded by Petey Cerf, a visionary leader in Lawrence, KS, who dedicated her life to creating opportunities for others. Petey’s passion for service led her to establish multiple nonprofit organizations in the community, including Audio-Reader, to ensure that people with vision loss had access to news, information, and entertainment. She was always striving to make a meaningful impact. 

That spirit of generosity lived on through her son, William Dann, who shared her deep commitment to making a difference. In his lifetime, he generously supported Audio-Reader and upon his passing, he left a bequest to Audio-Reader. His gift ensures that Audio-Reader remains strong for future generations, continuing the mission he and his mother so deeply believed in - providing vital services to those who need them most.

To honor the legacy of Audio-Reader’s foundation and future, we have named Audio-Reader’s live recording studio in recognition of Petey Cerf and William Dann. This space serves as a tribute to their vision, ensuring that their dedication to accessibility and connection lives on through every broadcast and service we provide. 

The plaque reads:

Cerf-Dann Studio
In Memory of
Petey Cerf and William Dann
Honoring the Legacy of Audio-Reader’s Foundation and Future 

We are profoundly grateful to Petey Cerf and William Dann for their unwavering support, generosity, and vision. Their legacy will continue to shape Audio-Reader’s future, enriching lives and fostering independence for years to come.

William Dann wears a striped short sleeve button up shirt, has a clean shaven head and face, and has clear framed plastic glasses. Steve to his left smiles with short dark brown hair and a polo shirt.
William Dann (on the left) with Audio-Reader Chief Engineer Steve Kincaid.