Older Adults Committee Spotlight: Jim McClure – A Legacy of Leadership and Lifelong Advocacy

Few people have impacted the NSA quite like Jim McClure has. With 41 years of unwavering involvement, Jim has become a cornerstone of the NSA and a national voice for people who stutter.

His story began in Chicago, where he helped organize a self-help group that eventually affiliated with the NSA (then the NSP). His dedication to community, advocacy, and awareness grew from there.

“I’ve made a second—or maybe third—career out of stuttering advocacy,” Jim says with pride.

Over the years, he has used his expertise to serve the NSA, the Stuttering Specialty Board, and ASHA’s Certification Council, pushing for greater representation, understanding, and professional accountability for people who stutter.

One of Jim’s most notable contributions was organizing a publicity campaign around the release of The King’s Speech. His work significantly boosted the NSA’s visibility and sparked national conversations about stuttering, identity, and support.

“Learning to take risks with my speech helped my career, and using my professional skills to help the NSA has been a source of satisfaction.”

Today, Jim continues his leadership as a member of the Older Adults Committee, helping offer mentorship and a mature perspective to our growing group of members aged 50 and older.

His advice to those new to the NSA?
“Use the opportunity of conferences and chapter meetings to venture into uncomfortable speaking situations and master them.”

Get to know Jim:

Favorite ice cream: Chocolate swirl

Nature pick: Desert

Favorite film to rewatch: Master and Commander

Pet status: Emotional support human to a cat

Fun fact: Jim spent 25 years serving in the U.S. Navy

Jim’s contributions to the stuttering community span decades, platforms, and lives.

Thank you, Jim, for your lifetime of leadership, compassion, and bold dedication to the NSA!