Meet Dr. Megan Young, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Dr. Megan Young Professional Relations Committee Dr. Megan Young is a dedicated and accomplished speech-language pathologist and Assistant Professor at New Mexico State University. With a deep commitment to advancing understanding and support for people who stutter, Megan has been an active member of the National Stuttering Association (NSA) since 2019. Her passion for making a meaningful impact in the stuttering community is reflected in her research, which delves into the psychosocial aspects of stuttering, the lived experiences of individuals who stutter, and the pursuit of employment equity for adults who stutter. Through her work, Megan strives to break down barriers and foster greater inclusion and understanding in workplaces and society as a whole. Megan’s academic and clinical expertise is complemented by her dedication to mentorship and advocacy. She is known for creating a supportive environment for her students and actively engaging in initiatives that amplify the voices of those who stutter. Her research has contributed valuable insights to the field, helping to bridge the gap between clinical practice and the real-world challenges faced by people who stutter. Megan resides in Las Cruces, NM, where she enjoys a fulfilling personal life with her husband and two cats. Outside of her professional endeavors, she finds joy in music, experimenting in the kitchen, exploring new destinations, and embracing the beauty of the outdoors. Whether hiking through the scenic landscapes of New Mexico or engaging in creative pursuits, Megan’s well-rounded interests enrich her perspective and fuel her dedication to her work. Her passion for creating positive change makes her a valued member of the NSA and the broader speech-language pathology community.

Learn how Dr. Russell Zimmer,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Music Teacher, Trumpet Player/Instructor Dr. Russell Zimmer Briefly describe your daily job duties. My daily job duties involve teaching and interacting with nearly three hundred middle school students in addition to a handful of private trumpet students. Although not daily, I also perform trumpet professionally in a variety of musical settings from classical to jazz. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. As a person who stutters, one of the most challenging parts of my job is maintaining fluency strategies to help deliver effective and clear instruction to my students, especially through difficult and more stressful days. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? No, I try to not make stuttering something that defines me. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. As a teacher, it helps me feel more sympathetic and connected towards students’ various needs. I can also serve as a positive example for students that our character flaws (or strengths!) can make us a stronger individual with a special superpower that others may not have. What is your proudest moment at your current company? The proudest moment so far would have been the first performance of the middle school band with me as the director. There was a lot of anticipation built up with “the new teacher” and unknown expectations of how the band would sound under my direction. The performance had the largest audience to date with (unfortunately) family and friends standing outside trying to hear the band (over 500 audience members). That night I successfully conducted four ensembles totally 300 students for a total of two and half hours by myself. I prepared performance notes which I read aloud and let the adrenaline help lead me through fluency, using pauses in a structured and meaningful manner. I was dumbfounded by the positive response from the parents afterwards. What are your long-term career aspirations? I started my career somewhat late, not fully anticipating where I would be. I feel that I have reached a peak of where I see myself career-wise. I see myself possibly working at the college level at some point, but I am enjoying being an influential force for the developing, somewhat chaotic, middle school mind. In addition to being a teacher and performer, I see myself writing a couple of books related to music and overcoming life challenges. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Like many others have said, don’t let stuttering define you. I found it helpful to treat speaking like with music practice. The concept of “practice makes permanent” rings truth in all aspects of life. Find time to mindfully practice speaking in a constructive manner and time to center oneself. It’s important to truly “let go” of some of our inner struggles and focus on doing your job to the best of your abilities.

< Back Spotlight on the Older Adults Committee: A Voice of Wisdom, Connection, and Confidence Meet a longtime member of the NSA who embodies the heart of what it means to be unapologetically yourself. Vicki Schutter been part of the NSA since 1985, when we were still known as the National Stuttering Project (NSP). Their journey began when a persistent fellow stutterer, Brian Koch, encouraged them to attend a meeting in Paula Campbell’s apartment. That first step led to a lifetime of connection, support, and transformation. “I had never been in a room with so many stutterers in my life,” she said. “It was life-changing.” Now a proud member of the Older Adults Committee, she helps represent the fastest-growing group in our organization: adults over 50. The committee offers a unique perspective on NSA initiatives, providing insight into workshops, mentoring, and planning events with a thoughtful eye toward later stages in life. But more than anything, this committee fosters a sense of belonging. It’s a place where mature members can reflect, connect, and continue to grow within our ever-expanding stuttering family. She says that one of their proudest accomplishments is simple yet powerful: “I always order exactly what I want in a restaurant. I never order something I think will be easier to say.” We celebrate that kind of confidence and self-acceptance at the NSA. Through their years of involvement, she’s learned to live with their stutter, not in spite of it, but with it—embracing who she is rather than striving for who she thinks she’s “supposed” to be. When she’s not advocating for the stuttering community, she’s enjoying their favorite things: Pecan Turtle Fudge ice cream Relaxing at the beach Singing California Dreamin’ at karaoke Caring for Ginger, their very spoiled orange-and-white cat Rewatching episodes of Star Trek Dreaming of visiting the lake region of northern Italy To anyone new to the NSA, their advice is clear: “Go to a conference! It will change your life forever, and you will meet people there who will be your friends for the rest of your lives.” We’re honored to have this member in our community and even more thrilled to see their continued leadership on the Older Adults Committee. Previous Next

< Back Previous Lucas Credeur Presenter Lucas Credeur is a person who stutters and is currently pursuing a degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He is the newest Co-Leader of the National Stuttering Association Lafayette Chapter and is a passionate advocate for those who stutter. In his free time, Lucas enjoys reading, playing guitar or bass, and watching movies or anime. Next

< Back Teen Advisory Council Spotlight: Rowan Ashby – Confidence, Connection, and Community The NSA’s Teen Advisory Council (TAC) comprises passionate and motivated young leaders who serve as mentors and role models for their peers—and Rowan Ashby is a shining example of that spirit. Rowan joined the NSA two years ago, looking for a place to feel understood and supported. What they found was not only a welcoming community but also the confidence to lead, inspire, and dream big. “The NSA has given me newfound confidence,” Rowan shares. “I joined to find a community of people who understood and supported me.” Now an active member of TAC, Rowan works year-round to support fellow teens and create safe, empowering spaces—especially at the Annual Conference, where TAC members help kids and teens connect and grow. Looking ahead, Rowan hopes to start a support group for people who stutter on Long Island, expanding the NSA's reach and building community where it's needed most. Their advice to new members? “There are people who understand you and will accept you as you are.” And when Rowan’s not mentoring others or speaking up for change, they’re diving into some pretty amazing passions: Favorite ice cream: Cookies and cream Pets: One cat and one dog Musical talent: Has played the cello for over 10 years Achievement: Two-time New York State Champion in swimming Rowan’s courage, dedication, and leadership are helping shape a stronger, more inclusive NSA for teens everywhere. Thank you, Rowan, for leading with heart! Previous Next

Follow the NSA on social media for updates, resources, and stuttering awareness campaigns. Join the conversation today. Join the Conversation Social media is a preeminent way to connect with others instantly both locally and across the globe. The National Stuttering Association offers a variety of ways to connect with others online to discuss the various aspects of stuttering, seek the advice of professionals or others in your situation, or simply make new friends who stutter or catch up with old friends. Connect over the internet with others who know how you feel. Groups get to know each other by asking questions, discussing tough issues and finding answers to questions. Facebook This is the first stop (after this website!) to find information about stuttering and to connect with other PWS and professionals. Check out photos of stuttering events, catch up with friends, old and new, and see what’s going on in the world of stuttering and the NSA in real time! Instagram Browse through the latest graphics and images showing what the NSA is up to, and all about! LinkedIn Stay up to date with the NSA’s career resources on LinkedIn. You’ll be informed about upcoming webinars, career profiles, practice interview resources, and more. Have a career success story you want to share? Write a post and tag us – we love celebrating your wins! YouTube The NSA YouTube channel is the place to view videos from our NSA’ers, staff, board members, and supporters related to stuttering. Mailing List Sign up for the free National Stuttering Association mailing list to receive the latest in news, events, store discounts, research and more regarding stuttering and the NSA. This is the primary mode of direct communication the members of the stuttering community. NSA Parents Facebook Group The NSA Parents Facebook group is a closed, moderated group open only to the parents of kids, ‘tweens, and teens who stutter. This group offers parents a safe environment in which to share stories and trials, seek advice, and gain support from other parents of kids who stutter. Those interested in joining must answer the required entry questions, and will be vetted. NSA Chapter Leaders This is a closed, moderated group is open only to NSA Chapter Leaders and serves as a place for them to connect, share ideas and stay in the loop! You can ask questions, start a discussion or share information about your chapter that other CLs may benefit from. NSA Teens Facebook Group The NSA Teens Facebook group is a closed, moderated group open only to teens (ages 13-17) who stutter to have a safe environment in which to share stories and trials, seek advice, and gain support from other teens who stutter. Those interested in joining must answer the required entry questions, and will be vetted. NSA Young Adults The NSA Young Adults Facebook group is a closed, moderated group open to 20- and 30-somethings who stutter to have a safe environment in which to share stories and trials, seek advice, and gain support from others who stutter. Those interested in joining must answer the required entry questions, and will be vetted. NSA Military Support The NSA Military Support group is for current and former military personnel to talk to each other and to give and get advice and support about stuttering. For more information on or to join any of these groups, click on the group name above. All groups are moderated closely by NSA staff to maintain a safe environment for discussion. Bullying, abuse, harassment, and outside sales/solicitation will not be tolerated in any of our groups, and the offending member will be removed without prior warning. For questions, comments, or to report any abuse within a group or page, please email the NSA Communications Coordinator .

Meet Angela Medina, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Angela Medina Research Chair Dr. Angela Medina is an associate professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Florida International University in Miami, Florida. She earned her PhD in Applied Language and Speech Sciences from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette where she also completed her coursework for certification as a speech-language pathologist. Since 2015, she has served as the NSA Miami Chapter Leader. Dr. Medina has published and presented her research nationally and internationally on stuttering in Hispanic, Latino/-x, and Spanish-English bilingual communities. Her research interests include the stuttering experiences of adults, culturally and linguistically diverse populations, mindfulness, and qualitative research methods. Her hobbies include baking and gardening with twin daughters, playing fantasy football, running, and practicing archery. She is a loyal New Orleans Saints fan and music trivia enthusiast. Term began February 2021

Join the Boston - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Boston Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS NORTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Massachusetts State Welcome to the NSA Boston 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? Location may vary around the Boston area. When? Quarterly meet-ups happen around the Boston area. Please contact the Chapter Leaders for information! Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Sarah Onofri, Liz Gomez & Lisa Greenleaf Chapter Leaders Get in touch! BostonStutters@gmail.com - http://www.bostonstutters.com 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 do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. 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! "My first NSA Boston gathering as a teen changed how I saw my stutter—I finally heard others stutter too. After attending the 2021 NSA Conference, I went from seeing my stutter as my enemy to seeing it as something I could live with." ---Ethan Gioscia "The NSA Boston Chapters gave me true belonging. I found people who feel like family—who check in, cheer me on, and make me feel seen. Parents and fellow adults became the strongest supporters of my voice. My growth began the moment I found this group." ---Michèle Ayoub "I didn't know what to expect from my first NSA Boston event. I just knew I wanted my son to see other people who stutter and find community. Turns out that I needed this community just as much! Driving home, my son said seeing other people who stutter for the first time made him feel 'alive.'" ---Dolla Seng

Join the Northern Colorado - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Northern Colorado - Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Colorado State Welcome to the Northern Colorado 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? Council Tree Library- 2733 Council Tree Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525 When? Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 7:30 during the school year. Social meet-ups will be held in the summer! Our first meeting is March 6th. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Libby Cravens, Sarah Boffa & Jessica McGuire Chapter Leaders Get in touch! NorthernColoradoNSA@gmail.com 281-796-8882 (text) - 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 do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. 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 Previous Hope Gerlach-Houck Presenter Hope Gerlach-Houck, PhD, CCC-SLP, is an Assistant Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Wayne State University. Hope is a Co-PI on the HeardAI project, bringing expertise in advocacy for people who stutter, employment issues, and stigma, among many other areas. Next

Join the Chicago Suburbs - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Chicago Suburbs - Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL NORTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Illinois State Welcome to the NSA Chicago Suburbs 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? Meet-ups take place in the Chicago suburbs. When? Meet-ups are held monthly. For more information please contact the Chapter Leader, Nicole Batson, by phone or email! Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Nicole Batson & Andrew Batson Chapter Leaders Get in touch! nicolelbatson@gmail.com (773) 491-9110 - 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 do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. 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 Previous Tracey Wallace Presenter Dr. Tracey Wallace is a long-time member of the NSA and past Adult Programs Chair. She was a covert stutterer until age 27 when she learned about Avoidance Reduction Therapy for Stuttering (ARTS) which changed her life. Her journey since then has been one of self-discovery and challenging fears. Dr. Wallace is an Educational Audiologist in DC, and Co-Owner of Hennessy Creek Brewery in MD. She has been married for 33 years and has two adult children. Next