Apply for research funding to support stuttering-focused projects. View eligibility criteria, key deadlines, and submission steps with the NSA Research Fund. Apply for the NSA Graduate Student Research Award A $5,000 grant supporting graduate research in stuttering. Deadline March 17, 2026. Sorry, but this form is now closed. * First name * Last name * Email * Address * Phone * Tell us your Project Title * Upload your application here Upload File * Upload your unofficial transcripts here Upload File Optional (upload your cover letter here) Upload File SUBMIT

Access media resources, press releases, and contact details for the National Stuttering Association. Learn more about our mission and initiatives. Media Information Stuttering impacts millions of adults and children and their quality of life. Stuttering is also widely misunderstood, with conflicting theories and unsubstantiated claims for treatment programs. The NSA is committed to enhancing the lives of people who stutter, educating the public, assisting speech therapists, championing research, and to reducing the stigma of stuttering. If you are a reporter, writer, or producer working on a story about stuttering, the NSA can assist you with information, reasoned responses, subject matter experts, and people who stutter to interview. Links of Interest for the Media Stuttering Explained Causes of Stuttering Treatment for Stuttering Myths About Stuttering Facts About Stuttering Support Groups for People who Stutter Contact Information For media inquiries , please contact media@WeStutter.org National Stuttering Association 3261 Richmond Avenue #119 Staten Island, NY 10312 (800) WE STUTTER 1-800-937-8888 Info@WeStutter.org NSA Logos Official NSA Approved Logos We encourage the use of the National Stuttering Association's logos to promote our mission and raise awareness about stuttering. Whether you’re a partner, supporter, or media outlet, using our official logos helps maintain brand consistency and ensures our message reaches a broader audience. Please download and use the logos provided here. By doing so, you help amplify the voices of individuals who stutter and foster a community of understanding and inclusion. Thank you for supporting the NSA! DOWNLOAD NSA APPROVED LOGOS

Support for middle schoolers who stutter. Join our tweens' group to build confidence, share experiences, and make connections. Transitioning to middle school can be a daunting time for ‘tweens who stutter and their parents. During the middle school years ‘tweens begin to rely less on their parents and look to establish their independence. Everyday school stress from classwork to socializing can be awkward enough, and can be made even more stressful and awkward if you’re a ‘tween who stutters. At a recent NSA Conference workshop for ‘tweens and their parents, middle-school students who stutter talked about wanting to “own” how they choose to share their stuttering – if at all – with others. These ‘tweens also expressed a strong desire to have their parents support their choices, even if they might not agree. At the end of the day, the ‘tweens reasoned that it’s the child who stutters, and as parents, the adults need to be comfortable with their child’s choices. From the parent perspective, your fears and concerns most often will not be the same as those of your children. When your ‘tween hits bumps in the road, they will likely move on from them far more quickly than parents do. Just because they decide to handle things a certain way at the start of the school year doesn’t mean they will not change their mind and approach things differently as the year progresses. One of the middle-school students on the panel made the choice not to talk to their teachers or classmates about their stuttering at the start of the school year, however within a couple of months had decided that being open about it would make things easier for the student, teacher(s), and their peers. The lesson is that there are no right or wrong answers. Your child is growing up and discovering themself. They need to find a way to approach the school year in middle school in a way that best suits them. And remember, there is nothing that is done that can’t be undone. – Adapted from a previous article written by Stephanie Coppen with the assistance of Joan Duffield, Katie Duffield, Pattie Wood, Danny Wood, Helene Haus, and Julie North Learn about Stuttering Stuttering Explained Causes of Stuttering Treatment for Stuttering Facts about Stuttering Myths about Stuttering Famous People Who Stutter Support and Connection Local Family Chapters NSA Teens on Instagram Find a Speech Therapist Stuttering at School Back to School Educating Your Classmates

< Back Previous Emily Root Presenter Emily Root is a speech pathologist and college professor in New Jersey. She feels incredibly fortunate to work with people of all ages who stutter. She is the daughter of a mother who stutters and is passionate about stuttering acceptance for all. Emily loves to travel, run, and attend 80s and 90s concerts. She also loves spending time with her husband, two adult children, rescue dog, and two cats. Next

< Back Previous Holly Nover Presenter Holly Nover is a person who stutters, a speech-language pathologist, and a parent of a 14-year-old boy who stutters. She currently serves as the Program Specialist for speech-language pathologists in her local school district in Florida. Holly has been a part of the National Stuttering Association community since 2007. Next

Learn about the National Stuttering Association’s work in advocacy, support, and research for the stuttering community. Empowering Voices Since 1977 Our Work The National Stuttering Association exists to ensure that people who stutter are supported, informed, and empowered at every stage of life. Our work focuses on building community, advancing education, honoring lived experiences, and expanding access to resources that help people who stutter communicate with confidence and live full, meaningful lives. "We believe that stuttering is a neurological difference, not a flaw to be fixed. Everything we do reflects that belief." Our Core Areas of Work The NSA supports the stuttering community through a set of interconnected programs designed to meet people where they are. Community Support We create spaces where people who stutter are never alone. Local and virtual chapters for adults, teens, families, and educators Peer-led support groups grounded in shared understanding Opportunities for connection, confidence, and belonging Education & Advocacy We challenge myths and promote accurate understanding of stuttering. Educational resources for schools, workplaces, and families Advocacy initiatives centered on lived experience Public awareness efforts designed to reduce stigma Conferences & Events We bring the stuttering community together to learn, connect, and grow. An annual national conference with hundreds of attendees Regional and virtual events throughout the year Programming for people who stutter, families, educators, and professionals Youth & Family Programs We support children who stutter and the people who support them. Family-focused resources and workshops Teen leadership opportunities and peer connection Tools that support confidence during critical developmental stages Research & Professional Collaboration We collaborate with professionals to improve outcomes for people who stutter. Partnerships with speech-language pathologists and researchers Evidence-based education and continuing professional development Community-informed research priorities Our Story Since 1977, the National Stuttering Association has worked to enhance the lives of people who stutter through community support, education, advocacy, and research. Over nearly five decades, the NSA has grown into the largest non-profit organization dedicated to serving people who stutter, their families, and professionals who support them. Our work is rooted in hope, dignity, and the belief that everyone deserves to be heard. VIEW OUR HISTORY Why Our Work Matters People who stutter deserve access to community, accurate information, and environments where communication differences are respected. Through connection, education, advocacy, and collaboration, the National Stuttering Association works to ensure that people who stutter are not defined by fluency, but recognized for their voices, strengths, and contributions. Looking for Something Specific? We recognize that people come to the NSA with different needs. You may want to: Find support or community → Find a Chapter Support a child who stutters → Youth & Family Programs Learn or teach about stuttering → Education & Advocacy Engage professionally → Research & Professional Collaboration Get involved or give back → Join Our Community

Be inspired by career success stories from people who stutter. Learn how they’ve overcome challenges and achieved their goals. Everyday people who happen to stutter and are thriving at work. People who stutter are achieving career success. They are making valuable contributions in the workplace and their employers are rewarded with having high-performing employees. The NSA is committed to sharing stories of real people who stutter in relatable jobs with organizations that value a person’s experience, skills and talents. Jaymie Horak Human Resources Analyst VIEW PROFILE Derek Mitchell Senior IT Service Strategy Analyst VIEW PROFILE John Moore Marketing Consultant & Keynote Speaker VIEW PROFILE Kunal Mahajan VP – Middle Market Leveraged Finance VIEW PROFILE Jonah Otis Senior Manager VIEW PROFILE Ian Mahler Receiving Manager VIEW PROFILE Catherine Moroney Scientific Software Engineer VIEW PROFILE David Alpuche Photographer/Entrepreneur VIEW PROFILE Rivky Susskind Speech Language Pathologist VIEW PROFILE Danette Fitzgerald Optical Systems Engineer VIEW PROFILE Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith Elementary School Principal VIEW PROFILE Shea Quinn Helicopter Pilot VIEW PROFILE Madeleine Maccar Magazine Editor VIEW PROFILE Nicole Osborne Paramedic VIEW PROFILE Logan Williamson Process Engineer VIEW PROFILE Kelsey Smith Interpreter VIEW PROFILE Ariel Sonn Marketing Coordinator VIEW PROFILE Hannah Dunn Sr. Elite Care Specialist VIEW PROFILE David Resnick Manager, Product Design VIEW PROFILE Dana Koprowski Center Director VIEW PROFILE Cameron Francek Technical Delivery Lead VIEW PROFILE Will Nading Infrastructure Leader - Water Design Center VIEW PROFILE Jeff Fett Marketing Director VIEW PROFILE Jonathan Lazenby Community Employment Specialist VIEW PROFILE Emily Anderson Environmental Specialist VIEW PROFILE Conor Quinn Commissioner & Restaurant Owner VIEW PROFILE Haley Aguayo Manager, Benefits & Compliance VIEW PROFILE Natalie Bragan Senior Financial Analyst VIEW PROFILE Carl Johnson Medical Unit Maintenance Tech VIEW PROFILE Steve Ernst Conference Events Specialist VIEW PROFILE Nina Zito Elementary School Teacher VIEW PROFILE Carolina Ayala Developmental Services Worker VIEW PROFILE Charles White, III Secret Service VIEW PROFILE Stacey Sabu Occupational Therapist VIEW PROFILE Justin James Chiropractor VIEW PROFILE Anna Boyd English Language Arts Teacher VIEW PROFILE Nora Sadik Water Resources Engineer VIEW PROFILE Jake Kail Field Project Manager VIEW PROFILE Landry Champlin Miss America Organization VIEW PROFILE James Hayden HLA Technologist VIEW PROFILE Lisa Barone Chief Marketing Officer VIEW PROFILE Heather Rose Corporate Security VIEW PROFILE Wladimir Lyra Assistant Professor VIEW PROFILE Leah Graham Social Worker VIEW PROFILE Lane Sanders Freelance Musician VIEW PROFILE Dr. Russell Zimmer Music Teacher, Trumpet Player/Instructor VIEW PROFILE Demetris Nichols Inspirational Speaker, Professional Basketball Player VIEW PROFILE Glenn Foster Systems Analyst VIEW PROFILE Rob Bloom Creative Director VIEW PROFILE Ben Zucker Airman VIEW PROFILE Adriana Flowers Corona Corps Care VIEW PROFILE Gareth Walkom Founder, Entrepreneur VIEW PROFILE Anthony Davis Credit Union Bank Teller VIEW PROFILE Ashley DeVitto CT and X-ray Technologist VIEW PROFILE Derek Sutor Special Education Teacher VIEW PROFILE David Haas Executive Director VIEW PROFILE Joe Bergren Marketing Director VIEW PROFILE Christopher Monello Senior Marketing Manager VIEW PROFILE Zac Rankin Tax Managing Director VIEW PROFILE David Belgard Energy Accountant VIEW PROFILE Peter Loring Owner & Doctor of Audiology VIEW PROFILE Anabel Augustin Youth Case Manager VIEW PROFILE Patrick Harvey Assistant Merchandise Manager VIEW PROFILE Ronan Miller Postdoctoral Research Assistant VIEW PROFILE Jeff Brown Postdoctoral Research Associate VIEW PROFILE Logan Hall Management Consulting VIEW PROFILE Jason Baker Professor of Music VIEW PROFILE Jonathan Pomerantz Facilities Engineer VIEW PROFILE Alexandra Russo M.S. - Speech Language Pathology VIEW PROFILE Nick Cicero Town Planner VIEW PROFILE Brittany Dahl Acute Care Nurse Practitioner VIEW PROFILE Joe McEvoy Chief Strategy Officer VIEW PROFILE Kristi Van Winkle Medical Content Writer and Proofreader VIEW PROFILE Craig Cieslik Health and History Teacher VIEW PROFILE Justin Keirans Product Manager VIEW PROFILE Madison Nichols Flow Cytometry Specialist VIEW PROFILE Trevor Bell Sr. IT Security Specialist VIEW PROFILE Wesley Freeman Cost Modeling Manufacturing Engineer VIEW PROFILE Desiree Tracie Cole Actress/Singer/Dancer VIEW PROFILE Aidan Marshall-Cort Manager & Personal Trainer VIEW PROFILE Corinne King Director of Events & Business Development VIEW PROFILE Liz Helton Lead Teacher VIEW PROFILE Heather McLeod Pilates Instructor VIEW PROFILE Brendan Mahoney Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Registered Nurse VIEW PROFILE David Lamberti Creative Director VIEW PROFILE Samuel Dunsiger Accessibility Advisor VIEW PROFILE Glenn Karwoski Managing Director and Adjunct Professor VIEW PROFILE Eamonn Hubert Musician VIEW PROFILE Kaleb Brown Front Desk Associate VIEW PROFILE John Raab Sr. Manager Flight Software & Spacecraft Simulation VIEW PROFILE Bryant Anderson Recreation Leader VIEW PROFILE Leigh Gaston Assistant Editor VIEW PROFILE Chris Heathwood Associate Professor VIEW PROFILE Owen Kaelble Content Management Assistant VIEW PROFILE Leonardo Soto Detective / Hostage Negotiator VIEW PROFILE Kazi Sarjana Safain Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant VIEW PROFILE Kylie Pell Associate Teacher VIEW PROFILE Steven Dunn Trial Lawyer VIEW PROFILE Margaret Heffernan Production Manager | Producer VIEW PROFILE Sharon Emery Senior Consultant VIEW PROFILE Tyler Clemens District Manager VIEW PROFILE Kirsten Silvey Internal Medicine / Geriatric Medicine VIEW PROFILE Kimberly Reese Candle Production VIEW PROFILE John Finn Chief Scientific Advisor (CSO) VIEW PROFILE Edward DeBrae Contact Lens Coordinator VIEW PROFILE Jon Mohr Honda Deployment Specialist / Composer VIEW PROFILE

Meet Tatum Machnica, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Tatum Machnica Young Adults Committee Tatum was born, raised, and currently resides in Huntsville, AL. She received her Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering and her Masters degree in Systems Engineering from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) She currently works for a government contracting company, providing Systems Engineering support to the Army. Tatum’s passion is supporting the warfighter and she enjoys the hands on approach that engineering provides. When she’s not working or hanging out with friends you can find her teaching Pure Barre, attending HIIT classes, cycling, running, reading, or traveling with her husband. Tatum’s first NSA conference was in 2018, where the NSA community quickly became family. She is so grateful and excited to serve on the NSA Young Adults Committee.

The NSA provides support, resources, and advocacy for people who stutter. Discover connection and community across the nation. If You Stutter, You Are Not Alone 79 Million People Stutter Worldwide The National Stuttering Association believes in a more accepting and understanding world for people who stutter. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY How We Help We’re here for every part of the journey. From Local Chapters to national events, we create spaces where people who stutter feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are. We also raise awareness, educate the public, and help fuel scientific research to shape a better future for our community. LEARN MORE Who We Help We support people who stutter, their families, SLPs, students, educators, and employers, offering resources, support groups, and educational tools. PEOPLE WHO STUTTER FAMILIES SLPs STUDENTS Support The NSA Support isn't one-size-fits-all. Whether you care most about kids finding their voice or adults reclaiming theirs, there's a way to give that feels just right for you. Pick your passion. Fuel the mission. MAKE A DIFFERENCE Find Your People You were never meant to figure this out alone. Our support groups are where life-changing connections happen and stuttering feels a little less heavy. GET CONNECTED MEET THE TEAM Latest Resources Upcoming Events NSA Connects with Healthcare Professionals: Where Care Counts More Than How We Sound Tue, Aug 25 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Kids Club Wed, Aug 26 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Connects: DEI Think Tank Wed, Aug 26 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Connects with Passing Twice Thu, Aug 27 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates Parents and Caregivers Virtual Chapter Meeting Thu, Sep 03 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates Sisters Who Stutter Sun, Sep 06 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Connects: Grief - An Underlying and Often Unspoken Universal Experience Wed, Sep 09 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Southeastern PA Family Chapter: Back to School Event Thu, Sep 10 Chester County Library Burke Meeting Rm. MORE INFO LEARN MORE Multiple Dates NSA Connects Bil Arabi: Discovering Our Voice Tue, Sep 15 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Women Connect Thu, Sep 17 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Load More Featured Videos to Inspire and Educate Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Load More Join Our Community Be the first to hear about events, resources, and community updates. Join our mailing list today. SUBSCRIBE NOW

Partner with the National Stuttering Association to support people who stutter, fund impactful programs, and build more inclusive workplaces. Explore partnership opportunities today. Corporate Partnerships Build something meaningful with the stuttering community. The NSA has supported people who stutter for over 45 years. Partner with us to create more inclusive workplaces, fund life-changing programs, and connect your organization to a cause that matters. Start a Partnership View Partnership Levels Our Impact & Reach Partner with an organization making a real difference 70M+ People worldwide who stutter 7.7M People reached by NSA communications nationwide in 2025 51,000+ Educational resource accessed in 2025 164 Active local chapters nationwide PARTNERSHIPS Partnership Opportunities Select the partnership level that best reflects your ongoing commitment and capacity. Founding Partner $50,000+ Gain maximum visibility and collaborate with NSA leadership to co-create initiatives that reflect our aligned goals and values and drive the biggest impact. Includes: All Champion Partner benefits Co-development of signature programs Premier conference recognition Quarterly briefings with NSA leadership Custom employee engagement plan Dedicated partnership manager Premier placement across all NSA materials Start Partnership Champion Partner $25,000–$49,999 Activate strong visibility and meaningful employee engagement that signals a lasting organizational commitment. Includes: All Supporting Partner benefits Program naming opportunities Conference VIP access and recognition Bi-annual impact reports Employee volunteer coordination Logo placement across NSA materials Social media collaboration Start Partnership Supporting Partner $10,000–$24,999 Drive specific programs or events, with meaningful recognition and employee engagement. Includes: Conference program listing NSA website recognition Quarterly email feature Recognition in event materials Annual impact summary Employee engagement opportunities Social media recognition Start Partnership Community Partner $5,000–$9,999 A foundational partnership that connects your organization to the stuttering community and demonstrates your commitment to inclusion with room to grow. Includes: Conference program listing NSA website recognition Quarterly email feature Start Partnership All partnerships are flexible and can be tailored to your organization's goals. Not sure where to start? We're happy to talk through what makes sense for you. Contact Us

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. BECOME A MENTOR Share your experience, support career growth, and help people who stutter feel more confident navigating the workplace. Apply as a Mentor View Participants Join the Mailing List For Mentors Mentoring through WeStutter@Work is a meaningful way to give back to the stuttering community while supporting someone’s professional growth. As a mentor, you can offer encouragement, perspective, career guidance, and lived or professional experience that helps a participant feel more confident in the workplace. Why Become a Mentor? Make a lasting impact Support someone as they navigate career decisions, workplace communication, interviews, confidence, and self-advocacy. Develop leadership and coaching skills Mentorship strengthens skills like active listening, empathy, feedback, guidance, and thoughtful communication. Expand your professional network Connect with other mentors and participants from a wide range of industries, backgrounds, and lived experiences. Gain fresh perspective Mentoring is a two-way relationship. Many mentors learn from their mentees while offering support, guidance, and encouragement. Support workplace inclusion By mentoring, you help build more inclusive professional spaces where people who stutter are respected, supported, and heard. Learn from the community Whether you're a person who stutters or a dedicated ally, mentoring is a two-way street. Many mentors report learning just as much from their mentees as they give—especially when it comes to navigating workplace dynamics, communication styles, and resilience. Mentors receive resources and guidance from the WS@W committee to support their mentees effectively and become part of a growing professional network committed to workplace inclusion. It’s a chance to give back, build community, and grow personally and professionally. Our Mentors John Nunamaker Hi I'm John. I stuttered severely until the age of about 19. It's gotten way better but stil happens daily. Got through college made friends, and have had a successful career in sales, where I need to speak with people daily. Hoping to provide some perspective, advice, and mainly lend an ear to help others. LinkedIn URL Dan Sura I’m Dan Sura, a 41-year-old Senior Buyer – Capital Investments at Volvo Group in Greensboro, NC, where I lead cross-functional capex projects, Mexico sourcing initiatives, and supplier development. I also bring over 10 years of automotive industry experience in procurement, project management, and cross-functional leadership. I’m a husband and father of two young daughters (Reina and Gianna), a bilingual English/Spanish speaker, and an active Christian who integrates faith, therapy, and community into my daily life. I’ve lived with a stutter my entire life, and it has shaped many of my challenges and victories—from navigating high-pressure work environments and building team connections, to pursuing new goals like becoming a real estate agent to demonstrate that people who stutter can thrive in any field while serving the Latino community. This past July, I attended the National Stuttering Association conference, where I vulnerably shared my story through a letter to my 12-year-old self, a speech, and a slam poem—embracing my voice, ADHD, faith, family, and the power of healing through openness. I’m excited to join the mentor program to support others on their journeys, offering practical encouragement, professional insight, and the reminder that our differences can become sources of strength and connection. LinkedIn URL Andrew Herrick Andrew Herrick (PWS) is a big believer in Speaking Imperfectly! As a design and manufacturing engineer, small business entrepreneur, and project manager, Andy has navigated many challenges of professional communication. He believes that people who stutter belong everywhere in the workplace, from board room to back room, and that only by accepting your voice as imperfect can you confidently pursue perfect communication with others. Outside of work, you might find Andy climbing a mountain, reading a novel, studying for his latest industry certification, whitewater kayaking, visiting extended family, attending a theatre show, or building something weird in his garage. Alyssa Gemellaro I'm Alyssa Gemellaro, a second-grade teacher with a passion for education and a personal understanding of the challenges of stuttering, as I've stuttered since elementary school. With a degree in Elementary Education and a master's in Educational Technology, I bring both expertise and empathy to my classroom. Outside of teaching, I coach soccer, run the student council, enjoy going on walks, and love to read. I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Jordan Langston My name is Jordan Langston. I'm originally from Philadelphia. I completed my B.S. in chemistry at Oakwood University in Huntsville, AL, and my masters and Ph.D. in bioengineering at Temple University in Philadelphia. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology at Boston University Medical School. I've been in Boston for a little over a year now. My long-term career goal is to become a professor in a medical school department at a university. In my potential role, I will develop and maintain a funded research program that focuses on kidney disease using cell biological, computational and pathological tools to unravel the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to kidney disease, specifically in transplant patients. Besides being a person who stutters, I am also a transplant recipient, and so I am cognizant of the burden and toll that life-long monitoring, via routine blood work and daily immunosuppresion, has on a patient. Thus, I am adamant about advancing kidney precision medicine and helping those patients, like myself, who are lamenting for change. LinkedIn URL Lisa Rene' Brown I am a very down-to-earth kinda chick. I love making new connections and my passion is helping others to see themselves and become a better version of themselves. I graduated from columbia college chicago with a ba in journalism. I love writing stories, poems and songs. Storytelling and communication are my strong suits. I believe life itself is a story, everyone is a character with a specific role to play. There's many lessons to learn that catapult us to greatness. In my spare time, I'm a content creator posting positive spiritual content that enriches the lives of women. I also spend lots of time with my family and friends and love exploring my city. Coffee and good food is my love language. LinkedIn URL Gaurav Jalpota I have over 20 years of experience in finance, marketing, strategy and healthcare. I graduated with a degree in finance from Ohio State University and an MBA from Northwestern. Currently, I live in Columbus Ohio and am married with two teenage boys. I would love to share my experience navigating a career while managing stuttering in order to help others. LinkedIn URL Mia Hitterman Mia Hitterman is a person who stutters and has previously modeled and worked in production for various fashion brands. She earned her Bachelor of Fashion Design from Dominican University. In 2023, Mia received the Comcast Miss Community Service Award at the Miss Chinatown USA Pageant in San Francisco for her work in fashion and her advocacy for the stuttering community. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, watching shows, and spending time with her friends. LinkedIn URL Arnee Gomez Arnee Gomez is a person who stutters and has been a member of the NSA since 1996. Arnee brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in Human Resources, where she has worked closely with business leaders to drive organizational success and create inclusive, supportive workplace cultures. As a leader and someone who stutters, she is passionate about making sure all voices are heard and has helped employees achieve their career goals. She is the founder of Aloft HR Partner, LLC, a talent strategy consulting firm that focuses on both strategic and tactical HR and talent management support. Arnee holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, San Diego, and an M.B.A. from the University of Washington. LinkedIn URL Mallorie Guerra Mallorie was interested in speech and language development from a very young age, an interest that eventually and logically led to the field of speech-language pathology. Mallorie received a Master's degree from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, and has worked in multiple settings where one finds SLPs. Mallorie is a fierce advocate and ally for people who stutter and for people with disabilities. Outside of her career and volunteer work, Mallorie enjoys traveling, food, the great outdoors, reading books about Ernest Shackleton, listening to stand-up comedy, and speaking German. Industry: Speech Language Pathology Title: Speech Language Pathologist Eddie Brown I'm a proud person who stutters. I joined the National Stuttering Association when I was 12 years old, and that experience profoundly shaped my path toward becoming a speech-language pathologist. After earning my bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders from Auburn University, I completed my master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toledo, where I first became involved in stuttering research and earned an Advanced Certificate in Stuttering Intervention. Following graduate school, I began my career as a speech-language pathologist in Knoxville, Tennessee, working in private practice and schools across East Tennessee. Through these experiences, I saw a clear need for greater stuttering education, support, and resources—which inspired me to return to school for my Ph.D. I am now a fifth-year doctoral student at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where my research, teaching, and advocacy all center on stuttering. My work aims to bridge neuroscience and clinical practice to develop identity-affirming, evidence-based approaches to stuttering therapy. Throughout my doctoral training, I've been honored with the Dean's Award for research and community service, the Knoxville 40 Under 40 Award, and the National Stuttering Association's Krishnan Family College Scholarship. Beyond research, I continue to lead the Knoxville NSA Chapter and remain deeply committed to empowering people who stutter to find their voices and share their stories. LinkedIn URL Aidan Marshall-Cort Aidan is a Health and Wellness professional, public speaker, and advocate with a passion for helping individuals thrive at the intersection of physical health, mental well-being, and identity. With experience spanning Public Health Practice and Community Leadership, I bring a unique perspective that combines scientific knowledge with lived experience. Aidan serves as a Chapter Leader in the Washington, DC area and Chair of the Young Adult Committee for the National Stuttering Association, where I lead programming, advocacy, and community-building initiatives. Through this work, as well as public speaking engagements and media appearances, I champion conversations around stuttering, race, neurodiversity, and identity. LinkedIn URL Sara Merkle Sara Merkle, EdD, is a School Success Specialist at the University of Delaware's School Success Center and teaches courses in the College of Education and Human Development. Her interests include adolescent literacy instruction and achievement, curriculum development, influencing relationships between leaders and teachers, education equity, and advocacy for teachers and students. Dr. Merkle believes that education is a form of social justice, and she amplifies the voices and experiences of literacy educators in her instructional coaching and partners with them to drive practice and achievement. She is a person who stutters, a characteristic that has complicated and enhanced her life. LinkedIn URL Alonzo Jones Alonzo Jones, Jr., a person who stutters, serves as the Credit Manager at the Bank of Zachary, where he leads credit analysis and portfolio management while supporting the bank's strategic lending initiatives. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting from Louisiana State University and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Alonzo believes that personal challenges can be powerful teachers, his journey with stuttering has strengthened his empathy, resilience, and communication skills, qualities he brings into both his leadership and mentorship. Outside of work, he enjoys fitness, continuous learning, and spending time with his wife and son. LinkedIn URL Barry C. Shaul Barry Shaul, who stutters, is the founder of Shaul Consulting, a security firm specializing in strategic leadership. A former corporate senior executive, he is recognized for his collaborative approach and practical risk management. Before the private sector, Barry spent over a decade as a Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service, including a role as assistant shift leader on Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's protective detail. He began his career as a police officer in Orange, California. Barry holds a B.A. from Cornell College and an M.P.A. from the University of Minnesota. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his family as they work toward visiting all 50 states. LinkedIn URL Ashish Gupta Ashish has a Masters in Computer Science and specializes in Artificial Intelligence. His work experience spans startups and bigtech, mostly in the field of AI infrastructure. LinkedIn URL Chris Monello Chris Monello lives in Tinton Falls, New Jersey and is a person who stutters. He started attending NSA local chapter meetings in 2014 and was quickly comforted by the stuttering community and inspired to help others who stutter. In 2021, he joined the We Stutter at Work Board to help advocate for people who stutter in the workplace. He's passionate about his career as the Head of Marketing at Scientific American Magazine. When he isn't working, he enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling and yoga. LinkedIn URL Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith is a proud person who stutters, an award-winning educator, and the founder of Limitless Leaders LLC, a leadership development company that helps people turn what limits them into what leads them. After three decades as a teacher, principal, and district administrator, as well as multiple degrees in education, she now empowers others to lead with authenticity and confidence—especially those with hidden disabilities. Her book, Limitless Leaders: Leading Beyond Your Disability, shares her journey from silence to strength and inspires others to own their voice at work and beyond. When she's not mentoring or speaking, she loves traveling, storytelling, and spending time with family. LinkedIn URL Expectations & Rules For Mentors Requirements To serve as a mentor, you must: Be at least 22 years old Reside in North America Be a Person Who Stutters (PWS) or a strong ally Be compassionate and eager to connect & help Have at least 2-3 years of working experience Be able to commit up to at least 1 hour monthly Rules All mentors 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 mentor, we encourage you to: Get to know your mentee - their career goals, personality, strengths and gaps Establish a regular meeting cadence (e.g., monthly check-ins) Listen actively and provide constructive feedback Help your mentee set realistic career goals, and check in on their progress Offer encouragement and validation—especially around stuttering-related workplace challenges Share your own professional experiences, strategies, and insights Refer mentees to resources, events, or networking opportunities when appropriate Communicate clearly to the WS@W committee if you’re ever unable to continue mentoring so that transition plan can be made 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.

Learn how Steven Dunn,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Trial Lawyer Steven Dunn Dallas, TX Trial Lawyer Dunn Law Firm Briefly describe your daily job duties. Daily job duties include helping people who are disadvantaged due to mental health challenges, specifically eating disorders. As a trial lawyer, I help them seek justice, health care, and support in a loving and caring environment. As a father whose daughter was taken from him by anorexia, I know the pain caused by the loss of a loved one, and fight daily for the mental health of others. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. During trial I explain to the jury, “You may have noticed that I stutter. If that would be a problem for you to see my client objectively, let me know and we can talk to the judge about this”. What are your long-term career aspirations? Continuing to help others with their challenges! Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? As someone who is self-employed, the hiring process is not exactly applicable. However, I am very upfront talking with clients, new friends, and acquaintances about this. What is your proudest moment at your current company? Helping others to recover from eating disorders. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Be resilient!