Board of Directors Spotlight: Chad Mannisi – Leading with Heart, Humor, and Hope

Some leaders inspire with strategy. Others with compassion. Chad Mannisi brings both—and for over 20 years, he’s helped shape the NSA into the supportive, thriving community it is today.

Chad first discovered the NSA when he attended a conference on the recommendation of friends from his speech therapist’s support group. That experience was life-changing.

“The people I met were very welcoming and friendly. The sense of community and family was everywhere. It was on my way home after my first conference, thinking over the events of the week, that I decided to join the NSA and never looked back.”

Since then, Chad has led with vision and heart. He began by revitalizing the St. Louis Chapter, then joined the Board of Directors as Adult Programs Co-Chair, where he focused on streamlining chapter operations and improving leadership systems. Now, as Board Chair, Chad is dedicated to preparing the NSA for long-term success and growth—ensuring its legacy for future generations.

“I'm proud of how I'm helping the NSA evolve and get set up for success far into the future. Every Board member I've worked with, and continue to work with, has certainly helped me achieve this goal.”

Beyond strategy and structure, Chad is known for something else: joy.

“I love to laugh and have fun. I definitely know when it's time to get serious and things need to get done, but if I can do things while having fun and enjoying the task, I will.”

Chad shares that the NSA has had a profound impact on his life—helping him understand that he’s not alone, and that he doesn’t need to let external events define his self-worth.

“The NSA has impacted my life in so many ways. I've learned I'm not alone, that there are people who have gone through so many of the same things I have. I have many people I call family all over the country. I know I have a place to stay in almost every state, or great company over dinner if I'm ever in town. I know for certain that the NSA has helped my self confidence and self esteem, and I would not be the man I am today if it were not for the NSA.”

Chad’s advice to new members:
”Fear may have been a constant companion of yours for most of your life. The NSA is one of the few places you can be your true self, wholly and fully, and where no one will judge you or make fun of you because of your speech.”

Get to know Chad:

Favorite ice cream: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Nature pick: Beach

Favorite rewatch: Once Upon a Time

Go-to karaoke song: “Giddy Up” by Shania Twain

Pet: Dino, his beloved cat

Dream vacation: Italy

Chad’s legacy is not only in the systems he’s helped improve or the chapters he’s supported—but in the hope and community he brings to every room he enters.

Thank you, Chad!