DEI Committee Spotlight: Julie Marshall — Building a More Inclusive NSA, One Voice at a Time

For Julie Marshall, advocacy has always been second nature. As a speech-language pathologist, she’s worked with people who stutter across all ages and stages of life—always focusing on what matters most: their individual goals.

Julie has long relied on the National Stuttering Association's resources and community. Now, as a proud member of the DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) Committee, she’s helping ensure that the NSA continues to grow into a space where all people who stutter feel welcome, represented, and empowered.

“The NSA is a community where stuttering is celebrated. I joined the DEI Committee to help foster inclusion and promote equity.”

The DEI Committee works to support underrepresented groups in the NSA—Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQAI+ individuals, and multilingual speakers—while promoting diverse representations of stuttering throughout the organization.

Julie is especially proud of continuing a weekly adult support group in honor of the late Dr. Walt Manning, a beloved leader and mentor in the stuttering community.

“It’s a privilege to carry forward a space that offers connection and growth. I know Walt would be proud.”

Her advice to newcomers?
“You are welcome and accepted — wherever you are on your journey.”

Get to know Julie:

Favorite ice cream: Salted Caramel

Favorite show: Ted Lasso

Karaoke go-to: Anything by The Mavericks

Pet: Phoenix, her 14-year-old mixed rescue pup

Fun fact: She sings jazz on weekends!

Dream vacation: Australia

Julie’s voice and vision are helping the NSA grow into a more inclusive, connected, and diverse community—and we are so grateful for all she brings to the table.

Thank you, Julie!