The WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program empowers professionals who stutter to grow in confidence and career success through one-on-one mentoring, networking, and community support. JOIN AS A PARTICIPANT Connect with a mentor who understands career growth, workplace communication, and the lived experience of stuttering. Join as a Participant Meet the Mentors Join the Mailing List For Participants As a participant, you will be paired with a mentor who can offer support, encouragement, and practical career guidance. This program is designed for adults who stutter who want to grow professionally while building confidence, connection, and community. Career guidance and coaching Whether you're just starting out, looking to advance, or considering a change, mentors provide tailored support to help you navigate your next steps. Support for workplace challenges Gain strategies for handling tough conversations, self-advocacy, and navigating bias or misconceptions around stuttering. Confidence and communication support Build confidence as a communicator in interviews, meetings, and professional networking situations. Professional references and feedback Mentors can serve as references and help strengthen job applications with informed, supportive endorsements. Networking opportunities Expand your network through introductions to industry professionals and connections with others in your field. Peer connection and community Get exclusive access to a Google group and mentorship website, and connect with other participants in similar fields. Our Participants Syona Vashisth I am an undergraduate student at McGill University, studying Sustainability, Science, and Society, with a minor in International Development. I grew up in Portland, Oregon, and now live in Montreal. I speak English and French and am currently working on learning Spanish! I am actively involved in campus activities and have previous experience working with an environmental consulting nonprofit in Oregon, where I gained hands-on experience in sustainability and pollution prevention. As I approach the final years of my degree, I am excited to explore career opportunities in sustainability, consulting, and maybe policymaking. Outside of school, I love traveling, swimming playing tennis, and enjoying quality time with my family and friends. Through this mentorship program, I hope to learn from professionals about navigating the job search, building confidence, and pursuing a career as someone who stutters. LinkedIn URL John Biziorek John Biziorek is a medical student, where he works in health services research and is interested in surgery. His research covers head and neck oncology, surgical outcomes, and global health. As a 2025–2026 Fulbright fellow in Jordan, he studied disability and trauma among Palestinian refugees. Before medical school, he spent two years as an ophthalmic medical assistant and a street medicine outreach worker. Outside medicine, John writes personal essays, is learning Arabic, and is proud of his Polish roots. He hopes to become a surgeon who advocates for patients whose voices are too often unheard. Owen Pardi Hi, I'm Owen Pardi. I am currently a senior at the University of Michigan and will be graduating in May 2027. After graduation, I plan on getting my master's in business analytics, in which I hope to work in market research, consumer insights, or marketing analytics. In my free time, I like to lift weights, run, and cook. I am looking to connect with professionals in my field, start my career, and learn from others who stutter. LinkedIn URL Jonathan Levato Hello my name is Jonathan Levato, I go by Jon. I have a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Economics and an M.B.A in Risk Management. I've worked in child care and financial services throughout my career. I'm looking for a more rewarding career where I am helping others, the environment, animals, etc. I'm also looking to learn tools to help me grow as a stutterer. I look to build confidence, excel in job interviews, and become a better version of myself that I am proud of. I look forward to sharing experiences and meeting and learning from others as well. LinkedIn URL Johnny Turnboe John Turnboe is a Detroit-born vocalist, model, and professional specializing in legal administration and corporate compliance. After spending years navigating the music industry—including touring and recording as a tenor—John recognized the power of building a strong professional foundation. Today, he seamlessly bridges the gap between creative artistry and corporate strategy, climbing the ladder in specialized legal operations while actively pursuing his music career. Driven, detail-oriented, and unapologetically himself, John is focused on achieving peak performance both on stage and in the corporate world. LinkedIn URL Nafissetou Konate I'm a 20-year-old Malian American and first-generation college student from the Bronx, New York. I'm currently a junior at Washington University in St. Louis, studying Finance and Organizational Strategic Management with a minor in Business of Social Impact. Through my experiences in nonprofit consulting, financial analysis, and student leadership, I've developed an interest in understanding how businesses operate and finding ways to make a positive impact. I'm currently exploring career opportunities in corporate finance, business strategy, and operations. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling, cooking, crocheting, and exploring new places. As someone who stutters, I'm passionate about building my confidence, embracing my voice, and connecting with others who understand similar experiences. LinkedIn URL Renee Marshall I am a procurement professional with more than eight years of experience in procurement, contract management, sourcing, negotiations, RFPs, supplier relationships, and leadership. I have built my career in procurement and management and am currently working to navigate my way back into the field. I have always stuttered to varying degrees throughout my life, and I come from a family where my father along with his twin, also stuttered. While I have learned to live with my stutter, I am currently seeking support to rebuild my confidence in communicating and interviewing and to better navigate returning to my career. I joined the National Stuttering Association because I hope to connect with others who understand my experiences, gain confidence, and learn strategies that will help me move forward professionally without allowing my stutter to limit my goals or potential. Nick May Hi, my name is Nick and I live in Northern Virginia with my wife and young child. I graduated from LSU with a Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies and minors in Jewish Studies, Religious Studies, and Sociology in 2016 and from Gratz College with a Master's of Education in 2021. My career has spanned many different aspects of Jewish communal life, from synagogues to JCCs to Jewish Day Schools. I recently made the decision to leave Jewish professional life in search of better work life balance and am currently working at the National Association of Convenience Stores as their Education Coordinator. Outside of work, I love reading, playing disc golf, drinking good coffee, and meeting better people! LinkedIn Christiana Mensah My name is Christiana Mensah. I have a bachelors degree in accounting and master’s degree in business administration. I have been working at a school for over 19 years and now looking a new path in my career. I have 3 kids who have speech issues. My oldest son who is a freshman in high stutters, my second one who is in the fourth grade is on the spectrum and my youngest in the first grade has a speech delay. Life with my kids, career, and family has been very challenging but I am grateful for my family and the kind of person that I have become. Luke Freyman Luke Freyman is a graduate student in the FinTech M.S. program at the University of Central Florida, where he previously earned his B.S. in Integrative General Studies with an interdisciplinary focus on finance, technology, and biology. Before graduate school, he spent two years at ScribeAmerica, where he built and led a telehealth scribe team of about 30 people across roughly 30 medical specialties. As an undergraduate, he designed an honors research study on how stuttering affects quality of life for adults who stutter, compared with how their partners and families see it. Luke is now building projects in credit risk, fraud detection, and AI, and is pursuing a career in financial risk and analytics. Outside of work and school, he trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is based in the Orlando area. LinkedIn Xiaoyu Qiu My name is Xiaoyu, I am currently a PhD student at university of Michigan. Rohit Motwani Hi, I’m Rohit. I currently work as a Proposal Manager in the construction and infrastructure industry in Toronto, Canada. I hold a Master’s degree and have experience supporting complex proposals, business development, and multidisciplinary teams. As a person who stutters, I’m focused on continuing to build my confidence, communication, and leadership skills while growing my career. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, working out, and connecting with people from different backgrounds. KD Kroner My name is KD, and I’m a marketing professional and graphic designer who got their foot in the door a bit later in life! After getting my Human Services degree and working in the disabilities services field for a number of years, I decided to change course and go back to school for Graphic Design in 2018. I have since been working professionally in the marketing industry since 2021, channeling both intense creativity and drive. Outside of my professional endeavors, I am a multi-media artist and a local art event organizer! The Twin Cities local communities are so important to me and I love making an impact and meeting new people! LinkedIn URL Personal Website Beka Shalala I’m Beka! I work as a pediatric nurse and have been in the industry for a little over a year. Taking care of kids is truly amazing, and I love what I do! I am from northeast Ohio, and I graduated from the University of Akron with my Bachelor’s degree in Nursing in 2025. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking with my dog, traveling overseas, or exploring new cafes! LinkedIn URL Julie Farace Hello, my name is Julie Farace and I live in Maryland. I am 26 years old. I have four years of teaching Spanish to students in Grades K-6. I received my Bachelor's degree in Spanish at Xavier University in Ohio in May 2022 and I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain in 2020 for three months. I graduated Louisiana State University Shreveport in August 2026 with a Master's degree in Education. In the future, I have an interest in working with children, instructional design, or in an art-related field. I am also passionate about supporting individuals with disabilities. Outside of work, I love to draw, paint, play guitar and piano, and spend time with family and friends outdoors. LinkedIn URL Sophia Chen I graduated from William & Mary with a B.S. in Data Science and I currently work at LMI as a contracted data analyst. I work alongside military clients and provide data analysis and insights to support their work. While I’ve enjoyed developing my technical background, I’m also exploring different career paths and opportunities that allow me to grow outside of my comfort zone. Outside of work, I enjoy art, traveling, working out, and spending time with my cat. I’m naturally curious and enjoy listening to and learning from other people and their experiences. I’m hoping to use this opportunity to find a mentor, connect with others who have had similar experiences with stuttering, and become more comfortable and confident in expressing myself. LinkedIn URL Aidan Truckenbrod Hi, I'm Aidan! I recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with degrees in Public Relations and Political Science and have built my career around education, community engagement, and event management. I've worked with organizations ranging from local government to arts education and nonprofits, and I enjoy creating opportunities that bring people together and make a positive impact. Outside of work, I'm passionate about history, politics, I love exploring my city, and attending concerts. I'm excited to be part of this mentorship program, connect with others who understand the experience of stuttering, and continue growing both personally and professionally. LinkedIn URL Susanne Hart Susanne is a jack of all trades, on a mission to refine into something new! With 5 years at Starbucks under her belt (3 of which have been spent as a shift manager), and a fancy black coffee master apron, she has mastered the ins and outs of coffee, de-escalation, and customer service (and retention). While she loves sharing coffee knowledge with her regulars, her true passions are rooted in her degree in Digital Media, with a concentration in visual storytelling. She has used her graphic design training for organizations such as SAY: Stuttering Association for the Young, and SPACE (Stuttering, People, Arts, Community, Education), the latter of which she is a co-founder of. Susanne is a firm believer in the power of stories and their impact on the world, but in the meantime is looking to use her eye for detail, and passion for helping those around her to step out of the corporate grind and into something bigger and better! LinkedIn URL Personal Website LaShanda Lewis Shanda is the founder and herbalist behind The Irie Cup, a Caribbean inspired tea and herbal wellness brand she launched in 2020. Under her leadership, the business has grown from an online shop into a multi-channel brand, with products available through direct-to-consumer sales, farmers markets, and wholesale partners. Nataly Cespedes Hi! My name is Nataly, I’m an Industrial Engineer who graduated in 2024 and recently moved to Florida. I currently work in marketing and sales for an e-commerce company. When I’m not working, I enjoy working out, playing sports, and reading. I’m excited to be part of this community and to keep growing, both personally and in my career. Russell Weiser I am CPA with an MBA from Rutgers University. I've worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 25 years with increasing responsibility and primarily work as a Director of Accounting and Finance. I am married with 2 children and live in Hoboken, NJ. LinkedIn URL Dean Vergara I'm a graphic designer with 10 years of experience and I currently work in-house for a labor union, with previous roles in government and nonprofit communications. Supporting the work of activists and organizers has shown me how powerful clear and accessible communication can be. As a person who stutters, I'm hoping to be a better communicator so I can better advocate for myself, my work, and others in the stuttering community. Outside of work, I like to balance screen time with swimming and biking and going to concerts with friends. Todd Phillips I have worked in the electrical field for 8 years and lost my job because the owner decided to shut the business down. Been out of work since October 2025. I've been going to school for audio engineering and started that this year in January. I've been making music for 23 years and would love to do that as a career Elliott Notrica Elliott Notrica is a recent graduate in Biology from Illinois Wesleyan University and the founder of Symbio, a food biotechnology startup developing on-site biorefinery systems for food waste upcycling. He is an Amgen Scholar, a Future Founders Fellow and a TEDx speaker. His research focuses on microbiology and enzymology of filamentous fungi. He lives in central Illinois with his girlfriend and two cats, and is passionate about sustainability and ethical entrepreneurship. Ally Kauzlarich Hi, I’m Ally! I grew up in Michigan and graduated with a degree in French Language, along with an associate’s degree in Psychology. I am currently 27 years old and reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where I work in the mental health field supporting individuals in developing goals and daily living skills. I value creativity, continued learning, and meaningful connection with others. Outside of work, I enjoy coffee culture, participating in CrossFit, and exploring new trails and outdoor adventures. Madison Montanus Hi there! My name is Madison, I’m 30 years old and live in South Florida. I have my Masters Degree in Digital Marketing and currently am an Event Coordinator at a local country club. I love planning events and making sure everything runs smoothly, I plan to become a Director of Events before I'm 40. A little about me is that I love cats, sea turtles, and chickens! When I am not at work I enjoy snorkeling, tanning, shopping, and going to Orlando for Disney/Universal. Yen Nguyen I am a Brandeis University student graduating in December '26. majoring in Business, and I am Pre-Law. I have an interest in civil rights litigation, criminal justice, and animal rights. In my free time, I like to collage with stationery and practice mixed- martial arts. I am looking to connect with more professionals in my field, navigate, and gain confidence with my stutter throughout my career. Todd Emge Todd is a happy father of 2 boys. He specialized in security/risk management while working in the technology field for over 20 years. Hobbies include gaming, hiking, and strength training. The next step is building long-term relationships within the WeStutter program and broader NSA community. LinkedIn URL Martin Velez Hi, my name is Martin. I’m an Army Infantryman in the California Army and work as a Residential Counselor supporting youth. I earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration and plan to continue my education. As someone who stutters, I’m looking to grow my confidence and communication skills while continuing to develop as a leader. Outside of work, I enjoy fitness, running, martial arts, and spending time with my wife and family. Lexi Hewitt Lexi Hewitt is a certified K-12 school counselor and has a National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certification (NCC). She has been a member of the NSA since 2019 and volunteers as the NSA Southeastern PA Family Chapter Leader, which she started in 2023, as well as the Regional Chapter Coordinator for the Southwest Region. One of her passions is creating content to help the stuttering community grow. She has taught Chapter Leaders how to use Canva, runs the NSA Exton social media pages, and creates content for the NSA! Sajad Nikafshar My name is Sajad. I am a PhD student in bio-based materials, specializing in lignin-based epoxy resin. My research focuses on developing sustainable materials and exploring innovative applications for renewable resources. I am passionate about expanding my expertise in research, innovation, and collaboration to make a meaningful impact in the field. Outside of work, I enjoy learning about new technologies, staying active, and continuously developing new skills. Jeevanreddy I’m Jeevan, a Fraud Subject Matter Expert with leadership experience across Chargeback, Dispute, and strategy initiatives. I bring a sharp eye for fraud patterns and a strategic mindset to protecting the business while keeping the customer experience front and center. I’m now focused on growing into broader leadership roles as well as deeper technical individual contributor roles, where I can build strong teams, sharpen fraud strategy, and help shape business outcomes at scale. Outside of work, you’ll find me outdoors exploring new places or on the badminton court, always up for a good rally. Marian Paige Watford I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Winthrop University in 2024, and I am now a graduate student in the MLA program at the same university with a concentration in Political and Civic Engagement. I have an interest in the legal field as well as advocating for the voiceless and marginalized communities. Michael Ventrice Michael Ventrice is a recent graduate in radio broadcasting and currently works in theater and audio visual tech for 3+ years. In his spare time, he enjoys playing video games, going to conventions, and weightlifting and is looking to become an electronics hobbyist. Emad E. Khattab I am a legal and governance professional with over 25 years of experience in contracts, compliance, and corporate governance. I am currently transitioning into the U.S. job market and working on improving my communication skills, particularly managing stuttering in professional settings. I am seeking mentorship to build confidence, develop my career direction, and connect with professionals in my field. Dinvuandidi Berenice Nsaku Kopela I am a case manager and a college student currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in human services. I recognize the need to strengthen my communication skills so I can express my thoughts more clearly and effectively. At work, I am being trained to become a program lead, and I understand that strong communication will be essential to my success in this role and in my overall career. My goal is to help and empower individuals to achieve the best version of their lives. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading romance novels, and listening to music. Adam Weaver I have an exercise science degree and applied physiology degree from Salisbury University. I have been working in the healthcare and fine dining services for 5 years in total. I had wanted to go into physical therapy school but decided against it after being in the field. I am now trying to break into the medial device sales field. Clay Girard My name is Clay Girard and I'm currently a Master's of Science student in Information Systems, focusing on AI & Data Science. I recently landed an internship in the defense industry, and I'm also in the process of getting my PMP certification. Prior to this, I spent 5 years working for a non-profit in Operations. I find that my stuttering plays a large role in my life, with my confidence fluctuating depending on the season or the workplace. In my free time I go dancing a lot, work out often, and play with my nieces and nephews. Bryan Turner I transitioned out of the Air Force earlier this year after 21 years. I'm now looking for work in project and program management. I've spent most of my career leading teams and keeping complex operations moving under pressure. I'm currently working toward my PMP certification. I've lived with stuttering my whole life — and had to work through it in some pretty demanding situations. I'm joining this program to connect with people who actually get it and to keep growing. Asher Brandley I am Asher Brandley, 28 years old, trying to navigate life with a stutter. I attended Hillsborough Community College in Florida then I transferred to University of South Florida and majored in Health Science with a concentration in Biology and a concentration in communication science and disorders. I recently moved from Tampa to Baltimore, Maryland for a better life. Hopefully, I get a job as a lab assistant here. Rachel Brownridge My name is Rachel, I am a student at the University of Guelph working towards a BSc. in agriculture. In the future, I want to work either in the agricultural sector or in the environmental field. I've never been that good at putting myself out there, so I hope to connect with others and learn strategies to gain communication skills and confidence. Steven Lee Steven is a finance and accounting professional with extensive experience in investment accounting and financial reporting for private equity and real estate investment firms. Over the past several years, he has served in Interim Controller and finance leadership roles supporting various Southern California organizations within Private Equity and Real Estate where he has overseen fund accounting, financial reporting, and audit coordination for multiple investment funds. Earlier in his career, Steven served as CFO of a multi-unit restaurant group that expanded rapidly before being acquired by a private equity firm. He earned his degree from The Ohio State University and enjoys mentoring others who are early in their careers. Outside of work, Steven enjoys following sports, traveling, and staying connected with friends and family. William Christopher Schneider William Schneider is a 24-year-old communications professional living in Chicago, Illinois. He is experienced in content creation, with over 2 years of experience working with social media. He aims to find a career in media, preferably in broadcasting or media production. Brenda Galabe Brenda is a civil engineer with five years of professional experience. A graduate of Arizona State University, she brings a strong technical background and international perspective. She is interested in growing professionally while continuing to build confidence and connection. Kristen May Hi! I'm Kristen, a student at the University of Michigan studying UX Design and Cognitive Science, originally from Traverse City, Michigan. On campus, I contribute to several project teams as a Content Lead and Product Designer, and love the creative and strategic side of that work. I'm very passionate about health informatics and am working to build a career designing digital experiences in healthcare that are accessible and intuitive for everyone, especially those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. Outside of my studies, I love running and trying out new recipes! Travis Ackerman I'm a 37 year old father of 4, who has experience and some familiarity with the stuttering community, so I'm very active in the stuttering community, both virtual and in person. I have a Bachelor's of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy, and am currently pursuing my first few industry certifications in Cybersecurity, as I'm pursuing the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701. Once this is achieved, I am going to pursue additional Cyber opportunities for the company I currently work for, Walmart. Currently, I am an Outbound Team Lead at a Walmart Next Generation (Automated) Fulfillment Center located in Greencastle, Pennsylvania. LinkedIn URL Sarah Schuyler-Gallaway My name is Sarah Schuyler-Gallaway. I am 48 years old. I am married with a teenage son. I have much education along with professional and personal experience. Though rich with experiences and opportunities being fortunate in respects, there have been twists and turns and bumps along my journey. I would like guidance with becoming more confident speaking even though I stutter and that has partly shaped who I am. I have come a long way and over come much perceiving with years of speech therapy but truly appreciate the resources and support of the NSA. Trang Truong Hi there! My name is Trang, and I recently graduated with my Entry Level Masters in Nursing, in which I now work as a registered nurse at an adult day care. I am also going onto my 5th year teaching fitness. When I teach fitness, I find myself speaking smoothly. When I'm in the healthcare space, all I can do is anticipate my stutter sometimes- I'm looking to build my confidence and find methods that work for communication in the healthcare space. LinkedIn URL Michael Allen Bailey Michael Allen Bailey is an arts manager based in Elmont, NY. He is a former intern at TT Partners and has experience on Broadway, having worked on shows such as "Merrily We Roll Along" and "The Book of Mormon." Currently, Michael is a Finance Associate at the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) while pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Performing Arts Management at Brooklyn College. He is also recognized as a 2026 Shubert Scholar. Michael is actively working to become more engaged in the stuttering community as he continues to advance his career. LinkedIn URL Isadora Gruber My name is Isadora Gruber, and I am a Nutrition & Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR), and a current Master of Public Health student at Des Moines University with a concentration in Health Education and Promotion. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Florida State University and have professional experience across community nutrition, clinical support, and public health settings—including work with the Florida Department of Health's WIC program, Lincare as a Medical Nutrition Coordinator, and rehabilitation and eating-disorder facilities. I am passionate about advancing health equity, improving access to preventive care, and creating practical, culturally informed nutrition education. Originally from Brazil and raised in the U.S., I bring a multicultural, bilingual perspective to my work. Outside of academics and entrepreneurship, I enjoy exploring my new home in Tennessee, spending time outdoors, and building meaningful connections within my community. LinkedIn URL Krystle Sahal Hi, my name is Krystle. I work at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in Transfusion Medicine. I recently went back to school for my bachelors degree, finally finishing in 2024. I recently enrolled in a graduate certificate program to become a specialist in transfusion medicine, which will prepare me to become a leader in my field. On a personal note, I love being outside and being active. LinkedIn URL David Almona David Almona (preferably Almona) was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria and is now a senior at Centre College studying Economics with a minor in Data Science. He discovered his interest in data analytics and sports analytics after his sophomore year and has since worked on a number of personal and research analytics project. He is currently an intern at the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts. At Centre College, he is a member of the Centre College Track & Field team, competing mainly in the 100m and 200m. He's been a lifelong sports fan, having been exposed mostly to soccer while growing up, and now supports Tottenham Hotspur F.C. in the English Premier League. He enjoys playing table tennis, volleyball, and badminton. After graduation, Almona wants to work in or get a Master's degree in Data Science/Analytics. LinkedIn URL Kyle Parry My name is Kyle, I am a customer success manager with 3 years of experience and 2 years of recruiting/sales experience. I want to level up my career and be able to lead people and influence business objectives. Outside of work, I love being active in golf and powerlifting. LinkedIn URL Expectations & Rules For Participants Requirements To join the program as a participant, you must: Be at least 18 years old Reside in North America Be a Person Who Stutters (PWS) Be willing to take initiative, seek guidance, and remain engaged Be able to commit up to at least 1 hour monthly Rules All participants are expected to: Be professional and courteous in your communication Any form of discrimination, harassment, or offensive behavior is strictly prohibited Keep all communications within the Google Group public unless you have explicit approval from other members to connect privately Restrict private communications to between you and your direct mentees Use respectful language that uplifts and encourages Expectations As a mentee, we encourage you to: Take ownership of your growth—come prepared to meetings with questions or topics to discuss Be open to feedback and willing to try new strategies Follow through on any goals or action items you and your mentor set together Respect your mentor’s time by being punctual, responsive, and consistent Communicate proactively to the WS@W committee as well as your mentor if you’re struggling or need to pause the relationship Participate in community spaces (Google Group, events, etc.) with curiosity and kindness Get Involved Join as Participant Apply as a Mentor Mailing List Contact Us Disclaimer: The National Stuttering Association (NSA) Mentorship Program is a voluntary peer-support program facilitated by NSA volunteers. Participation is at each individual’s discretion. The views and advice shared by mentors and mentees are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of the NSA. This program is not a substitute for professional therapy, counseling, or career services. The NSA does not evaluate participants, guarantee outcomes, or monitor individual interactions. The NSA is not responsible for any actions, decisions, or consequences arising from participation in the program. Participants are expected to engage respectfully and maintain confidentiality within the bounds of the program.

< Back Previous Ralph McRae Jr. Presenter Ralph McRae Jr. is a US Army Vietnam veteran and seasoned entrepreneur, he built and retired from several successful businesses and now enjoys an adventurous life flying planes and helicopters, while cherishing time with his wife, Anna, of 23 years. He is a person who stutters and this is his first NSA conference. Next

Learn how David Alpuche,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Photographer/Entrepreneur David Alpuche Briefly describe your daily job duties. I own and run two businesses. I have a photography business specializing in weddings, portraits and fine art photography. And two years ago, I launched a line of photography inspired yoga mats, under the brand “Dream Yoga Mats.” As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job was deciding to go for it. I’ve long known that I was a good photographer, but my stutter scared me from having to talk to clients, having to introduce myself over and over and again, and having to run a business by myself. I didn’t think clients would be comfortable talking to me or that they would take me seriously. It took me years of worrying about it to understand that as a photographer I have the luxury of my work doing the talking for me, and while interviews and first impressions are important, at the end of the day if my work is good (and it is) I shouldn’t worry that much. I still struggle during client interviews, but I am more comfortable now than I was when I started. As far as the yoga mat business, I didn’t have the hesitation I had with the photography, but I also didn’t consider how much talking would be involved in trying to sell a product to a mass market. I still struggle and I don’t think I’m the best salesman, but I still put myself out there. I have auditioned twice for Shark Tank with my Dream Yoga Mats and even though I haven’t been selected yet, I was proud of both my auditions. Do you self-disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting clients? My stutter is so severe that I really have no choice when it comes to talking about it. I have found out that bringing it up immediately when I talk to clients works best, because that way they don’t worry about what is going on and I allow them to focus on my work. I have become so good at it that I have an arsenal of jokes or stories to tell when I disclose, and I can immediately see how the clients feel more comfortable after. They get where I’m coming from and that creates a connection right away. Plus, I think stuttering makes me memorable and that is an asset when it comes to competing for clients. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I firmly believe that the reason I am a good photographer is directly related to stuttering. Ever since I was a kid, I was very good at visual arts, first with drawing, then painting and eventually leading me to photography. Communicating visually allowed me to tell stories without words, learning how to transmit emotions and use color to say exactly what I wanted to say. Stuttering also taught me to be patient, and with photography sometimes you need a lot of patience to capture exactly the moment you want. What is your proudest moment so far in your career? Creating a line of yoga mats made me extremely proud as it was the first time I went from an idea to prototyping to making my product real. I had zero experience in this kind of business but after a few google searches, tons of patience, lots of mistakes, and a lot of friendly support, I got it started. The business is still in its infancy, but I am very proud of the road traveled so far. Having the courage to audition for Shark Tank twice was also a proud moment because it forced me to become a salesman in front of an audience, and while I think it could’ve gone way better, just being there was enough of a confidence boost (and success) in my eyes. Maybe the third time will be the charm.

A recent New York Times article, “The New Science of Stuttering,” begins with Dr. Gerald Maguire. He is a clinical psychiatrist and a person who stutters (PWS). His own experience drives his research on medications that may help PWS. “I’m always shocked by how little physicians know about stuttering,” he says. The article then shares other researchers’ views on the evidence and treatment goals. New Stuttering Research Calls for Informed Choices Dr. Maguire’s team is studying whether medications used for psychiatric conditions could help treat stuttering. Research into other possible treatments includes vitamin supplements and psilocybin, the active substance in psychedelic mushrooms. Eric Jackson is a researcher at New York University and a PWS. He questions how much research has improved speech therapy. “I would argue that the science on stuttering in the past 30 years has done very little, if anything, to improve speech therapy options for people who stutter,” he says. Jackson also notes that many of the medication studies were small. Much of this work came from the same research team. Small studies can offer useful clues. Larger studies and work by other teams can help check those results. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any medication specifically for stuttering. Some medications approved for other conditions are prescribed off-label for stuttering, such as aripiprazole and citalopram. This is called off-label use. A doctor can explain what is known about its benefits and risks for stuttering. We encourage you to learn about a treatment before deciding whether to try it. Use trusted sources and discuss your questions with a doctor or speech-language pathologist. You can use these questions when reviewing your options: What research supports this treatment for PWS? How many people took part in the studies? Have other research teams found similar results? What are the possible side effects and costs? What time or effort does it require? How will we know if it is helping me reach my goals? Other people’s experiences can be useful, but your results may differ. Speech Therapy Can Address More Than Fluency This topic is part of a decades-long debate about how to treat stuttering. Historically, stuttering has been treated by speech-language pathologists using a fluency-shaping approach that emphasizes reducing disfluencies. Modern therapy often takes an acceptance-based approach and focuses on improving the client's quality of life and joy of speaking. Diane Paul of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) discusses this in the article, explaining that speech can become tiring when therapy focuses only on reducing stuttering. “It turns speaking into an exhaustive process where you have to think about every word you want to say,” she says. ASHA’s guidance also supports care based on each person’s needs and goals. That can include changes in speech and ways to make daily conversations easier. A person who avoids speaking at work might want to share an idea in a meeting. Someone else might want to speak with less muscle tension. Both goals can be part of speech therapy. Stuttering Support Should Reflect Individual Goals At the National Stuttering Association (NSA), we support people at every stage of their experience with stuttering. We respect what works for you. We want you to have clear information so you can make choices that fit your goals. Some people want help with speech or muscle tension. Others want to feel more at ease stuttering openly. Your goals may include both, and they may change over time. You can accept yourself as a PWS and still seek treatment. You can also focus on self-acceptance and support from others without seeking treatment. Your goals should help guide the care you receive. We also work to help listeners understand stuttering and treat PWS with respect. Read “The New Science of Stuttering” in The New York Times. Requires a subscription.

Returning as a tool for people who stutter, this board is designed to ignite ideas, foster confidence, and inspire action as we advocate for individuals with stuttering in the workplace. Whether you are still exploring what it means to share your stutter with others, practicing small steps toward disclosure, or openly stuttering with pride, this 2027 Bingo Board offers something for every point on the spectrum. This Board is extra special since it was created collaboratively by participants of WeStutter@Work’s Advocacy, Your Way webinar during ISAD of 2026. Each of the fifteen squares highlights a different way you can show up for yourself, educate others, and help create workplaces that welcome and support individuals who stutter. You are in control of your own four-in-a-row! There are intentionally marked ‘free’ and blank squares. This ‘free’ square automatically helps you toward a Bingo. If you saw this Bingo online, printed it, or posted it in your office, you are already practicing a proactive mindset toward advocacy! The blank square allows you to brainstorm an idea rooted in advocacy that feels right for you and your environment. If you need some ideas for the blank space, try thinking about how you can spread awareness about International Stuttering Awareness Day or National Stuttering Awareness Week (e.g., adding these dates to your workplace calendar, sharing flyers about the dates ahead of time). If you are feeling bold, can you print the stuttering awareness flag and hang it in your office? Can you volunteer to participate in the WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program? Ultimately, it is your choice! Let this be a place for growth, safe experimentation, and connection. However you choose to engage, you’re contributing to a future where stuttering is not only recognized, but welcomed warmly. Start 2027 by stuttering strongly! This Bingo Board gives credit to all who participated in the Advocacy, Your Way webinar during ISAD of 2026: Chris Monello, Mia Woltman, Adam Werth, Ed Rankin, Tanya Banks, Emad Khattab, Alonzo Jones, Barry Shaul, Abhishek Agarwal, Mike Martinez, Tashika Lewis, Robb Hurt, William Hacock, Erin Main, Rajvinder Singh, Cullen Blazek, Jeremiah Williams, Krystle Sahal, Andrew Herrick

Active & Previously Approved Stuttering Research Studies The National Stuttering Association (NSA) reviews and approves stuttering-related research studies to help ensure ethical standards, transparency, and respect for people who stutter. This page includes a regularly updated list of active stuttering research studies currently recruiting participants, as well as previously approved studies whose approval periods have concluded. Inclusion on this list indicates that a study has been reviewed by the NSA Research Committee. It does not imply endorsement of specific findings or outcomes. Active Stuttering Research Studies (Currently approved and recruiting participants) RESEARCH TITLE RESEARCHER(S) EXPIRES How Do Teens Who Stutter Define Stuttering Amir Hossein 06/30/2027 Effects of Psilocybin on Speech Fluency, Struggle, and Brain activity in People who Stutter Dr. Eric Jackson 11/05/2026 Childhood Stuttering: Risk Factors to Social Anxiety Dr. Kim Bauerly 10/11/2027 The Impact of Acceptance of Stuttering on the Use of Fluency Strategies in Adults Who Stutter Seabrook Easterling 10/11/2027 Social Network Analysis of Youth who Stutter Dr. Naomi Rodgers 10/11/2027 Neural Mechanisms Of Socially Driven Variability in Stuttering Courtney Luckman 10/11/2027 Self-Disclosure and Psychological Resilience in Adults Who Stutter: A Mixed-Methods Study of Relationships, Influencing Factors, and Lived Experiences Ladan Khoshbin 07/31/2027 Urinary Metabolic Profiles in Adults Who Stutter: A Descriptive Study of Biological Diversity Dr. Gregory Snyder 06/29/2027 Speech Accessibility Project – Stuttered Speech Collection for Inclusive Speech AI Dr. Shaomei Wu 06/18/2027 Discussing Observable Disability Survey Dr. Kathleen Bogart 06/17/2027 Dopamine and sensorimotor function in stuttering Dr. Hantao Wang 03/31/2027 OratorSync: Exploring the Types, Causes, and Treatments of Stuttering while Developing and Testing AI Tools to Help Mitigate it Ojas Desai (High School Scholar) 12/21/2026 Relationship Between Stuttering and Intimate Partner Violence Leah Mumpower 03/08/2027 Coping Flexibility and Psychosocial Well-being of Adults Who Stutter Sadaf Salehi 02/22/2027 Hot and Cool Executive Function of Children Who Do and Do Not Stutter Matt Hopper 02/17/2027 Career Advice Reported by People Who Stutter Samiksha Gaur 02/17/2027 Self-help for stuttering: More than mutual aid Molly Stevenson 02/17/2027 Stuttering and Sleep: Does it Matter? Kenzie Beard 02/17/2027 Neural and Behavioral Error Responses in Adults who Stutter Shogo Honda 02/17/2027 Exploring Adults’ Lived Experiences of Stuttering Through a Trauma-Informed Lens Dr. Naomi Rodgers 02/17/2027 Stuttering in Daily Life Research Study Dr. Jeanne Nakamura 12/31/2026 Acceptance as Agency: Rethinking Fluency Strategy Use in Adults Who Stutter Seabrook Easterling, Jennifer Atkins M.S., CCC-SLP, and Xia Jing, M.D. & Ph.D. 11/1/2026 If you have any questions about the research process or would like to know more about a specific project, please contact the NSARC Chair Angela Medina, Ph.D., CCC-SLP. Previously Approved Recruitment Projects (2022–2026) (Approval period has ended) Research Title Researcher(s) Approved Until Linguistic preferences in adults who stutter Dr. Mahmoud Elsherif 10/16/2026 Audiovisual Integration in People Who Stutter Dr. David Jenson 6/22/2026 Genetic and metabolic bases of developmental stuttering Dr. Joan Orpella 6/22/2026 Systematic client feedback in speech-language treatment Dr. Kerry Ebert 6/5/2026 Development of authentic avatars for clinical education in stuttering Dr. Shelley Brundage 6/5/2026 Social Anxiety, Worry, and the Experience of Stuttering Dr. Seth Tichenor 6/5/2026 Network Connectivity and Temporal Processing in Adolescents Who Stutter Dr. Shanley Treleaven 2/23/2026 Listener Perception and Childhood Stuttering Haley Warner 5/01/2025 Quantifying Variability in Stuttering in the Real World Dr. J. Scott Yaruss 6/14/2025 Social Network Analysis in Adults Who Stutter Dr. Naomi Rodgers 6/14/2025 Impact of Support Group Conferences on Teens Joy Kling 6/16/2025 AI Accessibility for People Who Stutter Dr. J. Scott Yaruss 6/17/2025 Parent Survey: Preschoolers Who Stutter Ryan Millager 10/22/2025 Real-Time Listener Reactions & Stuttering Courtney Margulis 10/22/2025 Sequencing & Initiation in Speech Production Dr. Frank Guenther 10/22/2025 Hope, Humor & Self-Stigma in Adults Who Stutter Dr. Laura Plexico 10/22/2025 Stuttering Mindsets Megan Arney 10/28/2025 An online compassionate imagery intervention for people who stutter/stammer: A feasibility study Benjamin Farmer 9/30/2025 Rhythm Production and Processing in Children and Adults Who Stutter Janina Boecher 10/22/2024 Exploring Sensorimotor and Interoceptive Awareness in Stuttering Hazel Malcolm 10/22/2024 Multiple Stigmas, Social Identities, and Stuttering Dr. James Mancinelli 10/22/2024 Temporal Processing in Adults Who Stutter Samira Anderson 10/22/2024 Parents of Individuals Who Stutter: Experiences & Stages of Change Sadaf Salehi 10/22/2024 Acknowledging Stuttering with Preschoolers Dr. Cara Singer 10/22/2024 Social Isolation and the Experience of Stuttering Seth Tichenor 10/22/2024 Transitions to Life After High School Dr. Naomi Rodgers 06/22/2024 Migrants to the U.S. Who Stutter Dr. Victoria Reynolds 06/20/2024 Effectiveness of a Mindfulness App Juhee Kim 06/20/2024 Variability in Fluency and Psychological Impact Eddie Brown 06/19/2024 Trait Mindfulness and the Experience of Stuttering Megan Arney 06/19/2024 Anticipation of Stuttering and the PAiS Robert Bies 02/22/2024 Understanding the Experience of Stuttering and Cluttering Dr. J. Scott Yaruss 06/14/2024 Neural Oscillations and Speech Perception in Stuttering Dr. Shanley Treleaven 06/20/2024 What Do People Who Stutter Want From Speech Therapy? Matthew Phillips 07/24/2024 Linguistic and Cognitive Factors in Stuttering Dr. Zoi Gkalitsiou 02/22/2024 Spanish-Language Support Group Study Dr. Angela Medina 02/14/2024 For any questions about research, or to learn more about specific projects, please contact the NSARC Chair Angela Medina, Ph.D., CCC-SLP.