Meet Amanda Elias, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Amanda Elias Regional Chapter Coordinator - Mid Atlantic Region DC, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia Amanda Elias is from West Monroe, Louisiana. She is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Instructor at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM). She received her undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University, master’s degree from Louisiana Tech University, and PhD through the University of Louisiana Monroe’s Marriage and Family Therapy Program with a concentration in Systemic Studies. She has been a Chapter Leader for the Monroe, LA Chapter of the National Stuttering Association since March of 2019. She also holds the Ally of Stuttering Seal through Spero Stuttering, Inc.

Join the Louisville - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Louisville ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL MEETINGS SOUTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Kentucky State Welcome to the NSA Louisville 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? In-person meetings are held at the Associates in Pediatric Therapy (Main Office) (11840 Commonwealth Drive, Louisville, KY 40299) and you can also join virtually via Zoom. When? Meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6:30PM-7:30PM. Contact the Chapter Leaders for the meeting link to join virtually. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Ashley Cubberly Chapter Leader Get in touch! louisville@westutter.org - - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

< Back Previous Ana Hernandez Presenter Ana Hernandez was recognized by the National Stuttering Association as the 2025 SLP of the Year. She is the owner of Adult Stuttering, creator of Green Social and the Safe Spaces of Stuttering approach, and a proud Global Partner of the Blank Center for Stuttering. Ana is an international speaker who provides professional training for schools and businesses. Her work is centered on prioritizing quality and dignity for those who stutter. Next

Meet Bret Denning, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Bret Denning Seasoned Voices Committee Bret Denning is a relative newcomer to the National Stuttering Association, having attended his first NSA Annual Conference in 2025. Since then, he has been excited by the opportunity to become more involved in the stuttering community. Bret is a business development professional with a government contractor in the Washington, DC area. He and his wife, Angie, live in Northern Virginia. When the weather is warm, you can often find Bret out on a golf course, wandering the fairways and pretending he knows what he’s doing.

Learn how Nicole Osborne,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Paramedic Nicole Osborne Briefly describe your daily job duties. As an ambulance paramedic, I respond to the emergency calls and provide urgent medical assistance in a variety of situations from traffic accidents to household incidents to inter-hospital transfers. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Speaking on the radio and phone is an on-going requirement of my job and it’s an everyday challenge for me. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? No, I didn’t disclose my stutter. I am able to manage my stutter quite well in that not many people know or notice it. My stutter comes across more as a lisp but I still block a lot and it comes out more often when I’m tired and anxious. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. It’s made me a much better listener because I know what it’s like to not be given the chance to speak. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I experience small victories every day when I am able to give a clear handover of a patient in need to hospital staff without blocking on words. What are your long-term career aspirations? I thoroughly enjoy my current position as an Advanced Life Support paramedic and do not wish to advance into management or into an Intensive Care position. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Just know it will happen at some point. Try to not freak out too much because you will stutter. I’ve been lucky that I can conceal my stutter quite well, but I don’t freak out because I know I will block a lot on words.

< Back Older Adults Committee Spotlight: Tanya Banks – From Seeking Help to Sharing Confidence When Tanya Banks joined the NSA 27 years ago, she sought help with her stuttering. Instead, she found a lifelong community that empowered her to discover confidence, embrace her voice, and feel fully seen. “In time, I gained confidence. I am no longer ashamed of my stuttering.” Tanya’s journey reflects the heart of what the NSA stands for—support, connection, and growth. A proud former Customer Service and Sales Representative, Tanya spent her professional career speaking with customers over the phone—something many people who stutter might find daunting. But Tanya took on the challenge with determination and strength, proving that stuttering doesn’t define your limits. Today, she’s an active member of the Older Adults Committee, which provides connection, mentorship, and a seasoned perspective on stuttering. She is also the Adult Programs Chair on the Board of Directors, Regional Chapter Coordinator, and Chapter Leader for the Detroit/Royal Oak Adult Chapter! Her commitment to NSA Adult Chapters is inspiring! She encourages others to take full advantage of the opportunities the NSA offers: “Attend chapter meetings and go to the annual conferences. Your life will definitely be impacted. You will never feel alone again.” Tanya also brings warmth and personality to everything she does, whether it’s offering encouragement to a fellow member or proudly sharing her unique hobby. Get to know Tanya: Ice cream flavor: Chocolate chip Favorite escape: Mountains Rewatch favorites: City of Angels and The King’s Speech Karaoke style: Inspirational music Thinking about adopting a dog Collects angel figurines Dream trip: Hawaii No matter where you start, confidence is possible, and you never have to walk the journey alone. Thank you, Tanya, for your strength, your story, and the comfort you bring to our community! Previous Next

< Back Previous Lisa Lanham Presenter Lisa Lanham works for ClearPath Wealth Partners as a Client Service Associate – Paraplanner, retired from Boeing after 32 years, and enjoys family and the outdoors. She is a person who stutters and this is her first NSA conference. Next

Join the Lenexa - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Lenexa ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Kansas State Welcome to the NSA Lenexa 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? Lenexa Public Market -- 8750 Penrose Ln, Lenexa, KS 66219 When? Meetings are held on the first Monday of every other month from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. Please contact the Chapter Leader to confirm the meeting schedule. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Becca Grussgott Chapter Leader Get in touch! becca@freedomtospeaktherapy.com - - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "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

Access stuttering research resources, funding opportunities, and guidelines for conducting impactful studies. Conduct Research with the NSA The National Stuttering Association welcomes research partnerships that deepen understanding of stuttering and contribute meaningfully to the lives of people who stutter. Whether you are seeking participant recruitment support or applying for funding, the NSA Research Committee provides review and oversight to help ensure each project aligns with our mission, values, and ethical standards. Our Approach to Research The NSA Research Committee is made up of PhD-trained researchers, speech-language pathologists, and people who stutter. This combination of professional expertise and lived experience helps ensure that every proposal reviewed by the NSA is scientifically sound, ethically responsible, and relevant to the community it aims to serve. We prioritize research that: Aligns with the NSA’s mission and values Protects and respects participants Demonstrates transparency in purpose, methods, and intended impact Recruitment Proposal Review Cycles Research recruitment proposals may be submitted at any time, but reviews take place during three designated cycles each year: CYCLE 1 SUBMIT BY January 15 NOTIFICATION BY February 15 CYCLE 2 SUBMIT BY May 15 NOTIFICATION BY June 15 CYCLE 3 SUBMIT BY September 15 NOTIFICATION BY October 15 Submit a Recruitment Proposal If you are interested in participating in research, or would like to explore studies already approved by the NSA, you can view our current list of approved studies. View NSA-Approved Studies Please Note The NSARC no longer conducts rolling reviews, and all applicants must be affiliated with a U.S.-based IRB. NSA Research Grants The NSA offers two competitive research funding opportunities each year: $5,000 Graduate Student Research Award Supports graduate students conducting research related to treatment, assessment, or foundational topics in stuttering. NEXT DEADLINE March 17, 2026 $15,000 CASE Research Grant Supports projects that explore stuttering through the lens of Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education. NEXT DEADLINE July 15, 2026 Research Funding Opportunities Questions or Ready to Apply? For questions about research collaboration, proposal submissions, or funding opportunities, please contact: Contact NSA Research Committee Together, we can support research that advances understanding and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of people who stutter.

Join the Bronx/Lehman College - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Bronx/Lehman College ADULT CHAPTER VIRTUAL MEETINGS NORTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - New York State Welcome to the NSA Bronx/Lehman College 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? 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? Via Zoom When? Virtual meetings (Zoom) are held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 7:00-8:30PM contact Chapter Leader for additional information Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Peggy Conner & Kenny Imade Chapter Leaders Get in touch! nsabronx@gmail.com - http://www.nsachapters.org/bronx/ 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

Join the NSA Young Adults Committee to connect with peers, share experiences, and build a supportive stuttering community. NSA Young Adults Committee Welcome to the NSA Young Adults! We are here to help you navigate the changes and transitions in life that you will face… from going to college, to finding your first job, to moving out on your own, and more. How will stuttering affect the choices you make? Will you allow it to hold you back from what you really want to accomplish? Our NSA Young Adults program bridges the gap between us and focuses on issues that young adults who stutter may face including job interviews, dating, career, and more. Our Young Adults Committee spearheads our Young Adult programming, both during the Annual Conference and throughout the year, by brainstorming and organizing workshops, events, and outings, hosting online sessions, participating in the NSA Young Adults Facebook group, and much more. AIDAN MARSHALL-CORT TATUM MACHNICA CAMERON JOYCE DR. EDDIE BROWN ELIZABETH MINTON TREVOR MORAN KAELA COYE

Learn how Kirsten Silvey,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Internal Medicine / Geriatric Medicine Kirsten Silvey Briefly describe your daily job duties. Educating people about their disease process and providing them with the tools to improve their health. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job is calmly communicating with the upset patient or family member, followed closely behind by cold-calling colleagues who have never met me. What are your long-term career aspirations? I aspire to promote a holistic model of healthcare that employs multidisciplinary teams partnering with patients and their caregivers to provide high-quality care with positive healthcare outcomes while decreasing unnecessary treatment costs. 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 start off EVERY conversation with a new person with my background followed by a disclosure of my stutter and permission to ask me to repeat myself if they are having difficulty understanding me. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I was secretly thrilled when I was named the Geriatrician of the year in 2020 by my colleagues in The Albuquerque Magazine. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. As a physician, stuttering requires me to talk more slowly and deliberately while utilizing plain and concise language. Patients appreciate this. It also allows me to empathize with and comfort patients who are feeling frustrated, broken, or lesser than. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Do not hide your stutter. Address it and then move on. If it becomes an issue, show how it is an asset. Never believe people who tell you that you cannot do a certain job. I believed I could not be a physician for eight years. However, I do not regret postponing my career. My prior careers as a medical researcher and science writer / editor have made me a better physician and leader today.