Meet Samaya Fonseca, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Samaya Fonseca Teen Advisory Council (TAC) Samaya is a passionate and accomplished sophomore at Timber Creek High School in Orlando, FL. She enjoys playing sports, reading, and expressing her musical talents as part of her school’s band program, where she plays both the trumpet and euphonium. Her dedication to the arts and athletics reflects her drive to excel and her appreciation for teamwork. Samaya attended her first National Stuttering Association (NSA) conference in Austin, Texas, in 2021, and this past conference marked her fourth. Over the years, the NSA has become an integral part of her journey, offering her a welcoming community and opportunities for growth. Samaya is proud to have completed her first year on the Teen Advisory Council (TAC), where she has worked to support and inspire other teens who stutter. As an active and enthusiastic member of the NSA, Samaya is committed to fostering connection and empowerment among her peers. With her dynamic personality, creative spirit, and dedication, she looks forward to continuing her contributions to the NSA community and making a lasting impact on others’ stuttering journeys.

Learn how Ian Mahler,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Receiving Manager Ian Mahler Briefly describe your daily job duties. As a Staff Level Manager at the biggest Costco in the world, I’m responsible for overseeing a continual smooth warehouse operation. This means if any matter requires attention in the warehouse, from employee or member concerns to equipment or other individual department issues, my role is to fix and rectify the situation. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The daily journey of managing and, if necessary, educating people about the time it takes me to communicate can be challenging. Stuttering can be a vicious, back-stabbing companion if I let it. It can also be a great way to let people know I’m communicating in an open, honest way and that they can do the same. It’s important for me to not let stuttering affect my own self-perception as a leader and authority figure in the workplace. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting co-workers, clients and or customers? I have been with Costco for over 22 years. My stuttering has evolved over time; during the interview process I was going through a period of heightened fluency to the point my stutter wasn’t overtly noticeable. I typically do not disclose my stutter unless someone asks me about it during conversation. I prefer to let my overt stuttering speak for itself. I typically stutter often and most times people who don’t know me will try to finish my sentences. When that happens, I continue speaking without acknowledging the interruption, and usually they get the point and let me finish. My co-workers know to let me finish, both from experience and because I put a note under my email signature. “A person who stutters” #LetMeFinish Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. Stuttering has given me the gift of empathy. Being a child growing up with a stutter, without access to today’s many youth stuttering foundations, programs, camps, etc. was a terrible ordeal. On the outside I may have seemed fine mentally, but the negative aspects of the “stuttering iceberg” were rearing their ugly head on the inside. Stuttering has taught me how to view my employees as more than just a cog in a wheel. I often look past the task at-hand and look at what is unseen but communicated in other ways through body language and other mannerisms. I have learned over the years to look past the surface and learn what motivates each of my employees and how I can help them meet their personal goals related to work. Through empathy I can communicate that I value them and am truly concerned about their well-being. What’s your best advice for people in a career striving to achieve greater success? Find a way to advertise your stutter that works best for you. Advertising my stutter through overt, open stuttering and via email has allowed me to be more at ease in the workplace. People I work with know what I’m about; I’m not hiding my stutter. People I don’t know get the point when I continue stuttering while speaking and they quickly understand I intend to communicate what and how I want to. There have been and will always be uncomfortable or anxious moments in the workplace regarding stuttering. (But there will always be stressful moments that aren’t related to stuttering in one’s career.) Being resilient and moving upward and onward can help get past the hard times. No matter what the issue, for me being resilient has been beneficial. Separating the event from the person, and classifying it as another experience to strengthen me, has helped shape my life journey.

Learn how Madeleine Maccar,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Magazine Editor Madeleine Maccar Briefly describe your daily job duties. My typical day involves a lot of researching, writing, and editing. However, it also involves meetings where my input is expected, conducting conference calls or phone interviews, and communicating with my departmental team, general coworkers, or our contributing writers. Sometimes I have to speak at meetings and, about twice a year, my company puts on a trade show where I am always talking with my team, event staff, and, most importantly, with our attendees. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Phone interviews handily top the list. Our events are taxing, but that’s more because I am a textbook introvert and being surrounded by thousands of people who expect something of me is EXHAUSTING. But honestly, I also thrive on making people feel special and welcome, and it’s so easy to get swept up in attendees’ infectious energy. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? I’ve been at my job for almost five years. I didn’t talk about my stutter until a few months after I started working there. Three things happened that sparked me to talk about my stutter. First, my office was a two-minute walk from a speech therapist, which is finally what got me into speech therapy at age 30. Second, I met my first adult person who stutters at a work event a few months into my job. (It was absolutely revelatory to finally have a conversation with someone who “gets it.”) Finally, I gave a half-hour presentation about six months into my job and told the audience that I stutter at the start of my talk. Afterwards, I was absolutely gob smacked by the number of people who told me that they never noticed my stutter, confided about either a loved one who stutters or their own experiences with disfluencies, or told me that they hoped my stutter never keeps me from reaching for the life I want. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. My stutter has taught me patience and empathy better than any other teacher possibly could. I feel like I owe other people the patience it takes to stay focused on what I’m saying rather than how I’m saying it. Also, no one loves the written word like a writer who stutters and no one can laugh at themselves like a person who stutters who’s chosen to accept their stutter, which means I take what I do seriously—not myself. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? No one notices your stutter more than you do. It’s just one small part of who you are. It’s natural for it to influence you but it does not have to define you. You are so much more than your stutter!

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.

Join the Southeastern PA - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Southeastern PA Family Chapter FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS MID-ATLANTIC REGION Official NSA Chapter - Pennsylvania State Welcome to the NSA Southeastern PA Family Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person Meetings What age group can attend? Family What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? Chester County Library (2nd Floor – Burke Meeting Room) 450 Exton Square Parkway Exton, Pennsylvania 19341 When? Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month from 6:00-7:00 PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Lexi Hewitt Chapter Leader Get in touch! nsasepa@gmail.com - https://forms.gle/gbSE7W29tTbdAuKH7 Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How 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

Meet Caitlin Franchini, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Caitlin Franchini Professional Relations Committee Caitlin Franchini, MS, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and a person who stutters, currently working as a Clinical Research Associate at the Arthur M. Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research – Atlanta Satellite through the University of Texas at Austin. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia and her master’s from Georgia State University. Caitlin specializes in developmental stuttering and implements person-focused treatment. In 2023, she received the Distinguished Early Career Professional Certificate from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Learn how Brendan Mahoney,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Registered Nurse Brendan Mahoney Richmond, VA Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Registered Nurse Virginia Department of Health Briefly describe your daily job duties. As an occupational health nurse with the Virginia Department of Health, I oversee the health and wellness of all VDH employees. As we are coming out of the pandemic, many VDH employees have neglected their health needs over these 2+years. I am happy to serve these VDH employees and to assess/gauge their needs. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Presentations are always a challenge. Thankfully I feel empowered with the confidence instilled in me by my team and supervisor, which are vital in any employment situation. Phone calls are always a daily challenge, but they become easier the more I do them and in the context of the call, the level of difficulty/stress is proportional to the topic. (i.e. discussing a general topic being easier and being questioned by a superior on a possible performance issue being more challenging). What are your long-term career aspirations? I have been in the nursing field for 16 years. It has been my professional goal to be an occupational health nurse, so I feel blessed to be in this position, as it’s taken me a good portion of my nursing career to reach this position. My next step is to start studying for board certification in occupational health nursing. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? I did during my interview process and when I first met my supervisor. I also addressed it in our first staff meeting. I feel it’s an ice breaker, as it allows everyone to be comfortable. I also explained that there is not a need to help with or finish my words or sentences while I speak. This way, it’s out on the open, there’s no questions, and everyone can be at ease. Lastly, I offer to answer any questions they may have in the future about my stuttering. What is your proudest moment at your current company? Being in the position as a professional resource for VDH employees for health and wellness. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. It makes me more determined and resilient when facing problems, challenges, and obstacles in the workplace. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Stutterers should focus on their strengths, as anyone would. Speaking may not be one of them, and that is nothing to be ashamed of, as I’m sure some non-stutterers may have the same weaknesses.

< Back Seasoned Voices Committee Spotlight: Hannah Laday – The Power of Connection, Art, and Living Proudly When Hannah Laday joined the NSA 20 years ago, it was because someone told her something she’d never forget: “Meeting other people who stutter is the best form of support you can get.” That suggestion not only changed her life—it became her calling. Today, Hannah serves as a valued member of the Seasoned Voices Committee, helping connect and empower members over 50. Her greatest strength? Bringing people together. Whether it’s through mentorship, workshops, or meaningful one-on-one connections, Hannah has a gift for finding common threads and helping others feel seen. “I am talented at connecting people to others with similar interests and skills,” she shares. “The NSA has shown me I can live productively in this world.” Professionally, Hannah has taken her passion for inclusion even further—helping to bring the art of marginalized individuals and communities to the public. That includes artwork created by differently abled people and members of Maine's Wabanaki tribes, opening new doors for expression, recognition, and economic opportunity. Her advice to those new to the NSA is full of wisdom and warmth: “Feel every emotion and listen to others who share your experience. Ask questions of other people who stutter to learn new ways of living successfully.” Get to know Hannah: Favorite ice cream: Blueberry Nature preference: Mountains Favorite movie: Dancing at Lughnasa Karaoke pick: “Nothing Compares to You” by Chris Cornell Fun fact: Completed a half-marathon at age 55 Dream pet: An Australian Shepherd Dream vacation: The American Southwest Hannah is living proof that growth and transformation can happen at any age and that one connection can change everything. Thank you, Hannah, for the light, leadership, and legacy you bring to our community! Previous Next

< Back Previous Chloe Swidler Presenter Chloe Swindler is a high school junior from Los Angeles, California. She is a member outreach coordinator for Sisters Who Stutter and competes at debate tournaments nationwide. She wrote an article titled “Debating with a Disability: Stuttering, Perception, and Fairness in Debate Rounds,” which was just published in the Rostrum, the official magazine of the National Speech and Debate Association. She plans to pursue studies in economics and disability studies, driven by her enthusiasm for math and business and her curiosity about the Social Model of Disability. Next

Join the Tucson - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Tucson ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Arizona State Welcome to the NSA Tucson 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 & Virtual 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? U of A Speech Clinic - 1131 E. Second Street Tucson, AZ 85721 - 4th floor room 442 When? Hybrid meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of each month from September to June at 6:00PM. Please contact the Chapter Leader for the meeting link if you would like to join virtually. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? John O'Hare & Janet Hawley Chapter Leaders Get in touch! johare25@cox.net , janet@arizona.edu (813) 294-6566 - 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

Meet Arnee Gomez, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Arnee Gomez Vice Chair & Secretary Arnee Gomez is a person who stutters and has been a member of the NSA since 1996. Based in Seattle, she has often shared her experience as a panelist for speech-language pathology students at the University of Washington, as well as with parents of children who stutter at NSA family workshops. Professionally, Arnee brings over 25 years of leadership experience in Human Resources, where she has partnered closely with business leaders to drive organizational success and foster inclusive, supportive workplace cultures. As a leader and person who stutters, she has a passion to ensure all voices are heard. She’s honored to serve in an NSA leadership role and support the organization’s mission of support, education, and empowerment. Arnee has a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, San Diego, and an M.B.A. from the University of Washington. Originally from Southern California, Arnee has called Seattle home for several years. She is an avid runner who loves hitting the road and trails with friends. She draws daily inspiration from her husband and their two young adult daughters, who motivate her to be her best self. Term began April 2025

Meet Paula Campbell-Schwab, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Paula Campbell-Schwab Seasoned Voices Committee Paula Campbell-Schwab is married to Doug Schwab and lives in Houston, Texas. She is 71 and a retired Special Education teacher. Paula is the co-founder of the Houston Chapter which started in 1985 and has been an active member of the NSP/NSA attending many conventions and conferences.