Our Story

FOUNDER & CEO

DAWN O’NEAL, PHD

I'm convinced that when we do things with intention, we can create a healthier and safer world. It’s not just a starry-eyed dream. I've taken a pretty winding road to get here, starting with a PhD in ecology, to steering projects and leading climate research at national and international levels, plus over a decade of experience in conservation with a focus on community-led projects.

Along the way I’ve had the pleasure of sharing a glass or two of bourbon with really incredible people. I know it’s possible to bring these passions of mine together and center them around meaningful and productive collaborations with communities and stakeholders, where environmental sustainability and fair business practices go hand in hand. Let's be the change we wish to see in the world!

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

Starting with the grain, we partner with folks who share our values. We love working with sustainable and regenerative agriculture producers who are making a real difference in soil and water health. And let's not forget the social side of things! We're all about promoting equitable farming practices and supporting underrepresented communities.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Our distilling process is all about being efficient and reducing waste. We're also all about renewable energy and cutting down on unnecessary materials during production and throughout our supply chain. Plus, as we craft spirits, we prioritize working with partners and collaborators from underrepresented groups, striving to make spirit production as diverse as the people and communities who enjoy our beverages.

INVESTING IN CHANGE

When we must compromise, lacking the technology or systems for our ideals, we invest in folks driving environmental and social change. When you savor New Dawn Distilling's beverages, you savor a vision of a better tomorrow. You join us in leaving our lands, waters, climate, and communities in better shape for future generations.

Organizations we’re supporting with 1% of our proceeds:

mEET THE TEAM BEHIND NEW DAWN

VP OF CONSUMER RELATIONS

DIONNE GALLOWAY

I'm your go-to guru for all things organization development. With over 15 years under my belt, I've got a knack for helping organizations and leaders reach their full potential and hit those financial and strategic targets. I've been around the block with everything from guiding transformations, to boosting communication and fundraising efforts. I do it all with a blend of strong leadership, engaging stakeholders, managing projects like a pro, developing employees, and making facilitation look easy. It's all in a day's work.

VP MEDIA AND SOCIAL OUTREACH

MALCOLM PERSON- PERRY

I’m a newbie to American whiskey but learning quick under Dawn’s tutelage - no surprise there given how much of a taskmaster she was as a baby sitter. Truthfully, it’s beyond exciting join the family and bring my decade+ experience in business operations, social outreach, and photography to New Dawn. Not only do we have so much fun together but the company values and approachable whiskeys are easy to get behind.

COLLABORATORS

High-Proof Creative

Epiphany Society

MARKETING CONSULTANT

Adriana Duque

Alton Distillery