< Back Supporter Spotlight: Ariel Sonn – From Silence to Strength When Ariel Sonn first joined the National Stuttering Association in 2017, it was during a pivotal season: her final year of college. After years of avoiding conversations about stuttering, she reached a place of acceptance — and longed to connect with others who stuttered too. Her first NSA conference was in Chicago in 2018, and it sealed the deal: Ariel was hooked. They found a community full of pride, honesty, and joy — and it changed everything. “I heard about the NSA from Vivian Sisskin. When I finally got to a place of acceptance in my stuttering journey, I decided that I wanted to meet more people with whom I could form close connections. For the longest time, I hated talking about stuttering. I couldn't even watch someone on TV stutter because it made me feel so ashamed. But then I realized the beauty and happiness of immersing yourself in a community of people who stutter and have no shame.” What followed was a complete transformation in Ariel’s relationship with stuttering. What once caused shame and silence now became a powerful part of her identity — one they proudly share. “I have moments of struggle almost every day, but the hold those moments have on me is nearly diminished.” These days, Ariel is the person her friends and family turn to for education and insight on stuttering. They’ve helped shape more inclusive, empathetic conversations — and they’re proud of it. My friends and family all support me and have shared moments where they have learned how to be better allies to other people who stutter that they've encountered in their lives. Those moments make me so proud.” Ariel’s advice to new NSA members? “Embrace everything. Have an open mind and open arms.” Get to know Ariel: Favorite ice cream: Cookies and cream Nature pick: Beach Favorite show: Gossip Girl Karaoke jam: Pink Pony Club Pets: None (yet!) Tattoo: A sparrow on her wrist to represent Jack Sparrow and the spirit of adventure 🇮🇹 Dream trip: Italy’s coastline From hiding her stutter to celebrating it as a gift, Ariel has become a beacon for others on their journeys. And through it all, the NSA community is better for having them in it. Ariel — thank you for your light, your voice, and your fierce support! Previous Next

< Back Previous Nihar Mahapatra Presenter Nihar Mahapatra, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the College of Engineering at Michigan State University. His research interests include computer architecture & VLSI and parallel and high-performance computing. In these areas, he has published more than 50 papers in leading refereed journals, conferences, and workshops, and has also contributed invited papers. Nihar is the PI of the HeardAI project. Next

< Back Listening Deeply, Learning Constantly: Meet Monica Johnson If you’ve ever met Monica Johnson, you’ve likely experienced two things: her deep respect for human connection… and a pun so good that it sticks with you all day. Monica is a speech-language pathologist (SLP), researcher, and teacher who brings warmth, curiosity, and heart into every space she’s in. Her journey with the National Stuttering Association (NSA) started during graduate school, but it wasn’t until she returned to earn her Ph.D. that things really clicked. Attending her first NSA Conference during that time proved to be a turning point. “Being part of the NSA during my education and clinical training has provided me with invaluable insights into the lived experiences of people who stutter,” she says. “It has deeply informed my clinical work, research, and teaching.” Monica didn’t just join the NSA to listen… she also joined to learn, to connect, and to reframe the way our field approaches stuttering. “Understanding stuttering goes far beyond fluency techniques and textbooks—it requires a deeper awareness of the social, emotional, and identity-related dimensions that shape everyday life.” That deeper awareness is at the core of her research, which explores how stuttering impacts romantic connection and self-perception in dating contexts, areas sometimes pushed to the margins of clinical conversations. For Monica, the NSA offers a space where these kinds of real-life experiences can finally take center stage. “This community is actively changing the narrative around stuttering—from a focus on ‘fixing’ to one rooted in empowerment, communication confidence, and genuine acceptance.” And while Monica is all about showing up with intention, she’s also all about showing up with joy. Especially when it comes to her favorite thing: relationships. “I’m obsessed with dating, intimacy, and all the ‘ships’—friendships, mentorships, partnerships, you name it,” she says. “Stuttering doesn’t exist in isolation—it lives in the spaces between people, in the pauses, the courage, the conversations.” Whether she’s in the therapy room or at a karaoke night absolutely not crushing the vocals (her words, not ours!), Monica makes it clear that it’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about people. It’s about the kind of growth that happens when we slow down, listen up, and learn from one another. “The NSA has created a space where real connection is possible. Where lived experiences and authentic voices are not only welcomed, but celebrated.” So what’s she proud of? Not the pitch-perfect karaoke, but the connections she’s built by simply showing up with care. “I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built by showing up with intention, openness, and respect—especially in spaces where people are trusting me with their voices and their stories.” Her advice to newcomers? “Come as you are—your voice, your pace, your story—it all belongs here.” And now, a few essential Monica facts: Favorite ice cream: Ben & Jerry's non-dairy The Tonight Dough. Mountains, beach, or desert?: Mountains. Favorite rewatch: Rom-coms from the ‘80s and ‘90s. Dream vacation: Hawaii. Karaoke style: Enthusiastic. Painfully off-key. Completely unbothered. Pets?: Technically, plant babies. Ask her about them and prepare for a full photo gallery. We’re lucky to have Monica in this community! Previous Next

Review the guidelines for applying for a case grant to support stuttering-related programs or initiatives. NSA CASE Research Grant Application Guidelines & Submission Instructions The NSA is committed to advancing research that enhances our understanding of stuttering in the areas of Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education (CASE) . We invite qualified researchers to apply for the $15,000 NSA CASE Research Grant by following the guidelines outlined below. Submission Instruction All applications must be submitted as ONE single-spaced PDF document containing the required sections in the order listed below. No additional attachments will be accepted. Applications that do not meet formatting guidelines, including page limits, font size, or section structure, will not be reviewed. Submission Deadline: July 15, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET Format Requirements: Font: 12-point, non-condensed Margins: At least 1 inch on all sides How to Apply: Submit the PDF application and contact information in the form below . Optional: Upload a cover letter (separate from the PDF application) if requesting specific reviewers. If you would like additional confirmation that your application was received, please contact Research Chair Angela Medina . Application Components & Page Limits 1. Title Page This page should include the title of the proposed study as well as of the name(s) of the investigator(s), their role in study, and information about their institution (i.e., university, department, city, state). 2. Abstract (Limit: 1 Page) Provide a concise summary of the study, including: Study focus and objectives Research methodology Long-term impact Relevance to the NSA’s mission in Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education (CASE) 3. Research Plan (Limit: 8 Pages) Specific Aims & Significance Overview of existing literature and current gaps Study objectives and expected contributions to stuttering research Impact on Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education Design & Methodology Study design and justification Participant recruitment, data collection, analysis methods, and reliability measures Pilot data (if applicable) Facilities & Resources Description of institutional resources, research facilities, and collaborations 4. References & Appendix (Limit: 6 Pages) References section Appendix (Permitted Content Only): Blank data collection tools (e.g., interview guides, surveys, scoring sheets) No additional research content beyond blank forms 5. Management Plan (Limit: 2 Pages) Study timeline and major milestones Research dissemination and reporting plans Project start date: November 2026 6. Itemized Budget (Limit: 2 Pages) Detailed budget justification for all requested funding Institutional overhead and indirect costs are not permitted 7. Investigator Biographical Sketch (Limit: 5 Pages) NIH-style biographical sketch (template available on the NIH website) 8. Human Subjects (If IRB Approval is Pending) (Limit: 3 Pages) For studies awaiting IRB approval, include: Participant population details (age, gender, ethnic background, etc.) Data sources (specimens, records, etc.) Recruitment plans and consent procedures Risk assessment and mitigation strategies Justification of participant risks vs. anticipated benefits If IRB approval has already been obtained, include: IRB approval letter Study consent forms Additional Documents (Optional) Cover Letter: Applicants may request specific reviewers be included or excluded. Justification must be provided, but requests are not guaranteed. Case Grant Application Sorry, but this form is now closed. CASE Grant Application Contact Information Investigator Information * First name * Last name * Email Address * Phone Upload your cover letter (optional) Upload File Upload Application * Title of Research Proposal * Upload your application here Upload File SUBMIT Advancing Stuttering Research—One Study at a Time.

Gain confidence with our practice interview program for people who stutter. Build skills for professional success. Job interviews can feel overwhelming, especially when you stutter. But you don’t have to face that stress alone. The NSA offers free virtual practice interviews designed specifically to help you feel more prepared and confident for your next interview. These sessions give you a safe space to practice disclosing your stutter, communicating with self-assurance, responding to any negative comments, and refining your preparation strategies. It’s all about helping you approach your interviews with the tools and confidence you need to succeed. We realize that part of the interview process can include last-minute scheduling. Please note that this is intended for general interview practice as it can be difficult to schedule a meeting on short notice. The sooner you can notify us, the better! Suyash J. “I have landed a job as a software development engineer with Amazon. I stuttered in all of my interviews and self-disclosed in every single one of them. The practice job interview session I did gave me extra confidence during all my interview with Amazon.” Request A Practice Interview First name* Last name* Email* What country do you live in?* City* State* What time zone are you in?* What kinds of jobs are you applying for?* Are you preparing for a real interview? If so, when is it scheduled?* What would you most like to gain from this practice interview?* What is your preferred availability? (select all that apply) Weekday - morning Weekday - afternoon Weekday - early evening Weekend - morning Weekend - afternoon Weekend - early evening If you have a resume, please upload it. Upload File What would you like us to know about you before we meet?* SUBMIT Suggested Resources A Workplace Scrapbook: My Journey With Stuttering In The Classroom A first-grade teacher with a lifelong stutter reflects on her journey from shame-filled student to confident educator, tracing key turning points across speech therapy, school presentations, and self-acceptance that reshaped her relationship with stuttering. Vocational Rehabilitation Programs For People Who Stutter This article explains how Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) programs can support people who stutter with employment goals, job coaching, interview preparation, workplace accommodations, and confidence-building through Anabel Augustin’s personal experience. Stuttering Put Simply: Your Stuttering Analogy in the Workplace This blog explores simple, relatable analogies that help people who stutter explain their communication in the workplace, challenge common myths, and encourage understanding, empathy, and stronger collaboration among colleagues and employers.

Learn how Kunal Mahajan,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. VP – Middle Market Leveraged Finance Kunal Mahajan Briefly describe your daily job duties. I work in the Middle Market Leveraged Finance group which consists of providing financing to private equity companies to finance their acquisitions. My primary duties consist of managing all aspects of the deal process which includes researching and conducting due diligence on different companies across different industries, communicating with clients, and presenting in front of credit committees to get a deal approved. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Presentations are the most challenging aspect of my job as a person who stutters. As the lead underwriter on a transaction, I am responsible for presenting in various committee meetings and am expected to be the expert on a transaction to get the deal approved. That pressure makes me feel that I have to give the perfect presentation and I become very anxious that my stutter will prevent me from doing so. How supported at work do you feel by your co-workers, supervisor(s) and the company itself? SMBC and my co-workers have supported me completely throughout my entire tenure with the firm. When I expressed my concerns to my managers that I was afraid I would be letting them down by stuttering during my presentations and when talking to clients, they assured me that they do not care whether I stutter or not. They said they are just focused on ensuring I am prepared for the presentations and are only concerned about what I have to say. When I told them how important becoming an effective communicator was to me, they supported me in my pursuit of programs such as Toastmasters, the Dale Carnegie Leadership Program, and getting me a private public speaking coach to work with on a one-on-one basis to improve my communication and presentation skills. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? No, I never did. However, I wish I did because my bosses thought I was just very nervous during my interview because they did not realize that I had a stuttering disability. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. Being a person who stutters and being open and authentic with my team about it has brought us closer together. They have been able to see how trusting I am of them and it has created an environment within our team where we all can be open and honest with each other and help support each other. My stutter has also made me become an employee who is very focused on helping others. Having gone through so much hardship with my stutter and having had many people who have been compassionate and supported me, that has made me want to do good for others. I am very focused on mentoring people within my team to help them grow and am involved in running initiatives at the firm for helping other people with disabilities get the support they need in the work place. What is your proudest moment at your current company? Hosting a Mock Interview Event for People Who Stutter in January of 2019 at our offices in NYC was my proudest moment at SMBC. We had 30 people who stutter from across the country come to the event to work on their interview skills. Members of the SMBC senior management team served as mock interviewers and provided interviewees feedback. I was proud that I was able to help bring together a life changing day for everyone in the room and that I work for an institution that is so accepting to people of disabilities.

< Back Previous Scott Yaruss Presenter J Scott Yaruss, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF, F-ASHA, is a professor of communicative sciences and disorders at Michigan State University, and a Co-PI for the NSF-funded HeardAI project. His research focuses on the experiences of people who stutter, with particular emphasis on ways that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can help to diminish the adverse impact that is often associated with stuttering. He is also the President of Stuttering Therapy Resources, a publishing company dedicated to helping SLPs help people who stutter. He has published more than 135 peer-reviewed articles on stuttering, as well as more than 200 other papers, articles, and books. He has also given more than 800 professional development workshops for clinicians around the world. Next

Join the Fort Worth - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Fort Worth - Adult ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Texas State Welcome to the NSA Fort Worth Adult 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? Adult 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? TCU Miller Speech and Hearing Clinic -- 3305 W Cantey St, Fort Worth, TX 76109 When? Meetings are held on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Matthew Johnson & Kerri Berard Chapter Leaders Get in touch! fortworthstutters@gmail.com (254) 931-1811 - 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? How can I find a local NSA chapter? What happens at an NSA meeting? Who attends an NSA Chapter? Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Don’t see an answer to your question? How do I start a local NSA chapter? How do I start a local NSA chapter? 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

Meet Ben North, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Ben North Young Adult Committee Leader Ben lives in Washington D.C. and is an attorney at the Binnall Law Group, a constitutional law and civil rights law firm. He litigates civil rights and constitutional law cases before courts and administrative agencies, and at educational institutions, advocating for the right of all people to be treated fairly and equally before the law. Ben’s first NSA conference was in 2008, he served on the Teen Advisory Council (TAC) from 2011-2016, and was TAC Chair from 2013-2016. He is excited to serve the NSA again as chair of the Young Adults Committee.

< Back Supporter Spotlight: Ilya Filmus – A Legacy of Support, Strength, and Connection When Ilya Filmus joined the National Stuttering Association over 30 years ago, he sought support. He found a community that changed his life—and one that he has since helped shape and support for decades. “The NSA has helped give me pride and confidence to be me.” Over the years, Ilya has been a consistent presence—attending chapter meetings, showing up for events, and mentoring others on their own journeys with stuttering. Today, his mission is simple but powerful: to give back. He is presently the NSA’s legal counsel and always eager to help whenever we’re in need. His advice for those new to the NSA speaks to his heart for connection: “Stick with it — you never know when you’ll have a life-changing meeting or conversation. I met one of my BFFs in a chapter meeting 15 years ago.” Ilya is especially proud of how far he’s come in life by stepping out of his comfort zone—professionally and personally. “‘Success’ would not have been possible without taking those leaps.” Get to Know Ilya: Ice cream pick: Pistachio Nature favorite: Beach Favorite rewatch: The Office Karaoke jam: “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin Pet: Rusty, a lovable field golden Fun fact: In a prior life, Ilya was asked to leave casinos… for beating the house! Dream destination: Asia Ilya’s story reminds us that lasting impact comes from showing up, leaning in, and offering support even when we feel uncertain. His journey, rooted in friendship and transformation, continues to inspire everyone around him. Thank you, Ilya! You’ve helped build a community where people feel seen, safe, and strong. Previous Next

Learn how Derek Mitchell,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Senior IT Service Strategy Analyst Derek Mitchell As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Communication is the most important aspect of my job. Being successful as a business analyst requires understanding business operations and technical processes but also knowing how to communicate that information is most important. At times my stutter makes it difficult to clearly explain processes and concepts to my co-workers whether it’s in a meeting or a one-on-one situation. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? I disclosed my stutter on the initial phone job interview and during the onsite job interviews with my current company. I made the decision to start disclosing my stutter during interviews six years ago. I realized that when I disclosed, I felt much more comfortable and didn’t have as much anxiety about my speech. This allows me to focus more on selling my experience and skills as opposed to being fluent. When I disclose, I keep it short and simple only telling the interviewer that I have a speech difference and invite them to ask questions about it. I state it as a matter of fact and do not add any extra context if it’s not needed. What is your proudest moment at your current company? During emergencies, my company uses several methods of communicating with their employees. One system that sends out emergency communications began to have issues and caught the attention of the school superintendent. I was asked to analyze the issue and come up with a solution. When I discovered the source of the problem, I then had to present my analysis to the various departments that had been affected. It was difficult, but I was able to present the information clearly and impress my boss. What are your long-term career aspirations? A career as an author and professional speaker are my long-term goals. While writing has always been a big part of my life, speaking is very new to me. Because speaking was always difficult for me, I heavily relied on my writing to communicate in certain situations. As a result, I developed proficiency and passion for writing. Before joining Toastmasters speaking professionally was a least likely profession for me than being an astronaut. After becoming move involved in Toastmasters, I realized that as I was beating my fear of public speaking, I was also developing a love for it. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? My advice is to not let your stutter dictate your career path. Your stutter or level of fluency doesn’t qualify or disqualify you for a certain career path. Focus and double down on the actual skills that will make you successful in your career. There’s nothing wrong with working on your fluency but know that it will not be the determining factor for your success or failure.

Discover the NSA’s research funding opportunities for stuttering-related projects, including grants, resources, and application details to support your work. NSA Research Funding Overview The National Stuttering Association is committed to supporting research that advances understanding, improves support, and strengthens outcomes for people who stutter. Through two competitive grant opportunities, the NSA helps fund research that is both academically rigorous and meaningfully connected to the stuttering community. Current Funding Opportunities $5,000 Graduate Student Research Award A $5,000 award for graduate students conducting research focused on stuttering. This opportunity supports emerging researchers whose work contributes to treatment, assessment, or foundational knowledge in the field. NEXT DEADLINE March 17, 2026 View Graduate Award Details $15,000 CASE Research Grant A $15,000 award supporting research grounded in Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education. This grant is intended for projects that expand understanding of stuttering while reflecting the NSA's core values. NEXT DEADLINE July 15, 2026 View CASE Grant Details How Funding Decisions Are Guided All applications are reviewed with attention to research quality, feasibility, relevance to the stuttering community, and alignment with the NSA's mission. The goal is not only to fund strong research, but to support work that has meaningful community impact. Explore the Opportunities Whether you are a graduate student beginning your research journey or an established investigator leading a larger project, the NSA's funding opportunities are designed to support work that can move the field forward. Graduate Student Research Award CASE Research Grant View Past Award Recipients