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.

Learn how Natalie Bragan,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Senior Financial Analyst Natalie Bragan Briefly describe your daily job duties. I am a Senior Financial Analyst working in Medicaid Services for the State of Maine, commonly referred to as MaineCare. In my current position with the State of Maine I oversee the Medicaid Accounting and Federal Reporting Unit. In addition to this, I facilitate collaboration among our many partners, act as subject matter expert, and review all designed, developed and implemented solutions for the Finance components of Medicaid systems. In short, I communicate extensively, both in written and verbal communication. I have a phone to my ear most of the day. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job is the sheer number of opportunities for me to get in my own head. I attend and participate in a great deal of broad, collaborative meetings, conference calls and trainings. As a person who stutters, I tend to find myself hyper sensitive to the awkward glances, snickers, and offhand comments (like “did you forget your name” or even worse, when someone attempts to finish my sentence – though I will say the latter happens quite infrequently). Over the years I have come to realize that many of my challenges stem from my own view of my speech and not that of others and I have worked to improve that view with no shortage of help from other NSA members. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose at work? Though it has been some time since I was last interviewed, I believe I did. I typically disclose in a relatively lighthearted manner, something like, “I have a stutter and you’ll hear it from time to time, but don’t be alarmed, I’m fine.” This usually gets a few chuckles from the audience. I find disclosing tends to put me and my listener at ease and significantly reduces the “awkwardness” often caused by ignorance on the topic. For those reasons, I do try to disclose as often as I feel the situation warrants it. I try to read my audience and weigh the benefits of disclosing against the risk of discomfort (primary for my listener). At this point if my listener is at ease, I am too. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I believe my stutter has offered me a perspective on empathy that those who have struggled less in life often take for granted. If I’m honest with myself, I cannot say my life has been particularly hard, but I do take initiative that affords me opportunities to take on risks and find success. My collaborative (“I can’t do it alone”) spirit keeps people coming back and wanting to be part of the process with someone who will generously partner with them. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I have built and fostered good working relationships with partners both internal and external to our division and have been able to call on those partners when needed; I have found truth in “you get what you give”. My desire to understand differing perspectives brings a generosity to the table that I have found awakens similar and complimentary virtues in others. I suppose the proudest thing I’ve accomplished in my time with the State of Maine is that I’ve never (not once) let the way I view my stutter (notice I did not say the stutter itself) be an excuse not to excel, not to participate or lead, and not to take initiative, no matter what that means I’ll have to do or try. What are your long-term career aspirations? Long-term, I want to enjoy my work. I want to make things better for others, I want to advance the mission and for my strengths and skill to be symbiotic to the work I do. When that stops being the case, it will be time to move on, but until then — I’m here. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Foster empathy — both for yourself and others, encourage understanding while promoting your strengths, and build for yourself an environment of ease and support. I know a lot of this has to do with the qualities of those around you and with whom you work, expect generosity from others and give the benefit of the doubt. Patience, encouragement, and empathy breed the same, surround yourself with them and they will grow. Take full advantage of the services the NSA has to offer. The NSA is more than its monthly meetings and annual conferences, we are community. A dear fellow community member once told me, “You deserve to take up a little space”. In no uncertain terms, you deserve to make yourself a priority when you speak, don’t minimize what you have to offer just because you convey it differently.

< Back Previous TAC Presenter The Teen Advisory Council (TAC) is a group of motivated and respected teens who are an integral part of the NSA. The TAC’s role is to exhibit strong leadership qualities and to serve as role models and mentors to their peers and younger members of Family Programs. The TAC is also responsible for providing support and presenting a positive attitude to teens and kids at the Annual Conference and throughout the year. Next

< Back Previous Sebastian Scala Presenter Sebastian Scala is a nearly 40-year member of the National Stuttering Association. He is married to the love of his life, Mary, and has two wonderful children. He is the sole proprietor of a nearly 100-year-old cocktail lounge in San Francisco. He coaches youth sports, does lots of public speaking, and is an avid writer. He is also passionate about fitness and pursuing his best life. Next

Learn how Christopher Monello,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Senior Marketing Manager Christopher Monello Briefly describe your daily job duties. Simply said my job is to drive subscription revenue growth across all digital channels: email, social media, website, search, etc. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job is communicating via Zoom, phone calls, Slack messages, etc. As a person who stutters, it’s hard for others to know when I’m done sharing a thought. This can be frustrating when I’m in the middle of a block and I need a bit more time to convey my ideas. In person communication is easier for others to gauge when I’m done speaking. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting co-workers, clients and or customers? I did not self-disclose during the job hiring process, but I wish I would’ve. Disclosing stuttering makes you and your counterpart feel more comfortable and more often than not, makes for easier communication. I disclose my stuttering to colleagues now when the time feels right. I never force disclosing my stutter. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I think I’m a better communicator and listener because of my stutter. I listen to others and in general I’m more patient. What is your proudest moment at your current company? My proudest moment at my current company was finalizing a major project. My first project onboard 3 long years ago (feels much shorter) was to create automated email frameworks to onboard each category of our customers: subscription, eBook, and single issue. This project was very technical and also creative in nature. Accomplishing this and being able to share both positive engagement and revenue results signified the value I could bring to my superiors. What are your long-term career aspirations? My long-term career aspiration is to take all of the experience that I’ve built working in marketing in various industries (client-side, media, technology and publishing) and start my own application/company (still brainstorming ideas). I’d love to be my own boss one day and also build a company culture of acceptance across the board. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Always be yourself. Don’t let your stutter define you. Join the NSA local chapter meetings and take advantage of their online resources. I interviewed for over 70 companies when I first graduated college in 2014. The process was rigorous and frustrating. Once I joined the NSA local chapter in midtown Manhattan, I felt immediately at home. To be so comfortable and open about my stutter with fellow stutterers is a gift that continues to enhance my life. You can get job interview tips and build both personal and professional relationships by joining the NSA community.

< Back Previous Sarah Sacco Presenter Sarah Sacco, MS, CCC-SLP, is a doctoral student under the mentorship of Dr. John Tetnowski at Oklahoma State University, where she specializes in stuttering research, advocacy, and community outreach. This is her first Annual Conference. Next

Meet Trevor Moran, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Trevor Moran Young Adults Committee Trevor Moran is a senior at Michigan State University studying Neuroscience with a minor in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. He is passionate about deepening his understanding of stuttering and will be pursuing a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology. After moving from his hometown of Brimley, MI, Trevor first joined the NSA in 2023 through the Lansing, MI chapter and has been involved ever since. Outside of academics, he enjoys running, cycling, and reading.

Join the Kansas City - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Kansas City FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Kansas State/Missouri State Welcome to the NSA Kansas City Family Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person Meetings What age group can attend? Family What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? Meeting location alternates between Chicken N Pickle locations in North Kansas City, MO, and Overland Park, KS. Chicken N Pickle (Red Roost Room) 1761 Burlington St, North Kansas City, MO 64116 Chicken N Pickle (The Fireside Room) 5901 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66223 When? Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 PM. During the ODD months (January, March, May, July, September, & November), we meet at Chicken N Pickle in North Kansas City, Missouri. During EVEN Months (February, April, June, August, October, December), we meet at Chicken N Pickle in Overland Park, Kansas. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Stacey Nierman, Andrea Burcham, Amy Burns & Joy Chang Chapter Leaders Get in touch! ksfamilynsa@gmail.com (620) 655-7946 https://www.instagram.com/kcfamilynsa Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How can you launch an NSA chapter in your area? If you'd like to bring an NSA chapter to your area, email info@westutter.org. We’ll help you understand the next steps and connect you with the right support. We’re glad you’re interested in building community. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

< Back Sisters Who Stutter Spotlight: Maya Singal – Speaking Freely and Leading Boldly Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is show up as yourself. For Maya Singal, that step began just a year and a half ago when she joined the NSA. What she was looking for was a space where she could speak openly and without fear—and what she found was a life-changing community. “I wanted to be a part of a community where I felt accepted and where I could truly speak without judgment or shame.” Now a proud member of the Sisters Who Stutter (SWS) Committee, Maya is using her journey to inspire other girls who stutter to speak up, take chances, and celebrate their voices. Whether it’s in the classroom, during Zoom calls, or encouraging others at the Annual Conference, Maya leads with compassion and strength. “I’m proud of being able to present and participate in my classes frequently throughout the school year.” Her advice for new NSA members is filled with encouragement and honesty: ”You’re never alone in anything. There will always be someone who is right beside you along any journey! NSA is so supportive and welcoming, it really will change your view on life.” Get to Know Maya: Ice cream favorite: Cookie Dough Nature choice: Beach Favorite show: Gilmore Girls Karaoke jam: “Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift Pet: Gryff, her lovable Bernedoodle Fun fact: Loves trying new vegetarian foods Hobby: Golf, for the outdoors and community Dream vacation: New York City Your voice matters just as it is—and with community, kindness, and confidence, you can use it to uplift others, too. Thank you, Maya! Previous Next

Join the Southeastern PA - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Southeastern PA Family Chapter FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS MID-ATLANTIC REGION Official NSA Chapter - Pennsylvania State Welcome to the NSA Southeastern PA Family Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person Meetings What age group can attend? Family What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? Chester County Library (2nd Floor – Burke Meeting Room) 450 Exton Square Parkway Exton, Pennsylvania 19341 When? Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month from 6:00-7:00 PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Lexi Hewitt Chapter Leader Get in touch! nsasepa@gmail.com - https://forms.gle/gbSE7W29tTbdAuKH7 Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How can you launch an NSA chapter in your area? If you'd like to bring an NSA chapter to your area, email info@westutter.org. We’ll help you understand the next steps and connect you with the right support. We’re glad you’re interested in building community. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter