Learn how Hannah Dunn,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Sr. Elite Care Specialist Hannah Dunn Briefly describe your daily job duties. I assist Marriott guests at all rewards levels with any issues that arise during their Marriott guest experience. I also assist Marriott hotel management, staff and other agents to help ensure maximum guest satisfaction. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. For 8 to 10 hours every shift, I’m on the phone talking. Each call is different and because of that, I do not speak from a script. I must think on my feet and engage in ad-hoc conversations all day with all types of people. Everything is unplanned and the conversation could, and does, go in any direction. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how? Yes! Absolutely! I disclosed my stutter during my hiring process because I cannot hide it. In the interview when I was asked, “What are your strengths?” I responded by telling them my stutter is a strength because I never let it stop me from doing uncomfortable things and instead, I use it as motivation to a better job. What are your long-term career aspirations? I want to continue being in the hospitality industry and be responsible for planning programs and events. What’s your best advice for people who stutter striving to achieve career success? Don’t hide your stutter. Let it be known and let it shine. Your stutter is what makes you who you are.

< Back Previous Madeline Wahl Presenter Madeline Wahl is a US-based writer with a Master of Letters in Fantasy Literature (with merit) from the University of Glasgow. She has spoken at the Glasgow International Fantasy Conversation (2023-2025) on fantasy literature and characters who stutter, and presented at the Australian Speak Easy Association’s 2020 conference. In 2025, she co-led a workshop at the National Stuttering Association’s Annual Conference. Her work earned first place in the Stuttering Foundation’s 2014 Journalism Awards (Internet Blog/Website category). She has held editorial roles at Reader’s Digest, HuffPost, and Golf Channel, and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Advertising/Public Relations from the University of Central Florida. Next

< Back Previous Joan Ross Presenter Joan Ross is a dedicated attendee of National Stuttering Association (NSA) Annual Conferences with her husband, Dave, and their two daughters and their families. Their journey started in 2008 in their home state of New Jersey, when they attended their first Annual Conference. Joan is the Chapter Leader of the NSA Central Jersey Chapter. Joan is also a small business owner and realtor. Her daughter Courtney, who has stuttered since the age of 3, has been a huge driving force in Joan's life. Joan embraces the role of grandma to 6 grandchildren as they attend their 18th consecutive Annual Conference in Charlotte. Next

Explore nsa careers guidance, resources, and real stories to grow your confidence at work. Empower Your Career Journey Discover resources, support, and real stories to help you thrive in your professional life. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY ON LINKEDIN Achieve Your Career Goals At the National Stuttering Association, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed professionally, regardless of their fluency. Our WeStutter@Work Program is dedicated to empowering individuals who stutter with the tools, resources, and support needed to achieve their career ambitions. Whether you are starting your job search, preparing for interviews, or advancing in your career, we are here to help you every step of the way. Resources for Success Essential Tools for Professional Growth Mentorship Program The WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program is the first of its kind, designed to connect individuals who stutter with mentors who truly understand their experiences. This initiative provides a supportive environment where participants can explore and create achievable career goals, build confidence in the workplace, and receive guidance from other professionals who stutter or from allies committed to fostering workplace inclusion for those who stutter. Through meaningful mentorship, participants can gain insights, celebrate victories (no matter how big or small), and develop the skills and confidence to thrive both personally and professionally. By joining, you become part of a groundbreaking community dedicated to redefining what it means to succeed in the workplace as a person who stutters. JOIN THE PROGRAM Practice Interviews Enhance your interview skills with personalized online practice sessions. Participate in free job interview practice sessions designed to boost your confidence as a person who stutters. Get the job you want and deserve with tailored feedback and expert guidance. LEARN MORE Full Disclosure Inspiring career advice from a successful professional who stutters. Discover valuable career insights and advice from Carl Coffey, a professional who has overcome challenges to build a thriving career. His experience will inspire and guide you to navigate your professional journey. LEARN MORE Professional Resources Build a supportive work environment. Create an inclusive and supportive workplace. Explore our professional resources, packed with valuable insights and strategies. Share this information to educate employers, allies, and listeners about stuttering. LEARN MORE Recorded Webinars Learn how to make a bigger impact at work as a person who stutters. Access recorded webinars with insights and strategies to help you excel professionally while embracing your unique strengths. Discover how to turn challenges into opportunities. LEARN MORE For Employers 1 in 100 people stutter That means employers will likely encounter people who stutter (PWS) in the workplace. Employers should not overlook the skills and talents of PWS and instead offer paths towards promotion and potential leadership roles. LEARN MORE Real Stories of Success Meet individuals who stutter and have achieved remarkable career success. Find inspiration in their stories and learn from their experiences. VIEW ALL CAREER PROFILES Steve Ernst Learn about Steve’s story VIEW PROFILE Madison Nichols Learn about Madison’s story VIEW PROFILE Leigh Gaston Learn about Leigh’s story VIEW PROFILE Explore Resources When the Voice in Your Head Is Louder Than the Stutter Maddie Nichols explores how negative self-talk can make workplace speaking situations harder for people who stutter and offers practical examples of realistic, positive inner dialogue that supports confidence, reduces stress, and keeps the focus on message delivery. 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. Inspire Others with Your Journey Celebrate your career milestones! Share your journey and inspire others in the stuttering community. SHARE YOUR STORY Be Part of a Thriving Community The WeStutter@Work LinkedIn Group is a vibrant community of professionals who stutter, mentors, and allies committed to supporting each other’s career growth. By joining our LinkedIn group, you'll gain access to exclusive materials and a supportive network that understands your unique experiences. Let’s achieve career success together! JOIN OUR COMMUNITY Expand Your Skills and Network Join our upcoming events and workshops designed to support your professional growth. Wed, Oct 21 Workplace Advocacy Your Way: Creating the 2027 Bingo Board / Webinar RSVP Oct 21, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM EDT Webinar Help create the 2027 Workplace Advocacy Bingo Board, explore practical advocacy ideas, hear mentorship stories, and customize your own goals. +11 more

< Back Previous Adrienne McHenry Presenter Adrienne McHenry is a person who stutters after a seizure at the age of three. She was covert for much of her life; she didn't even talk to her husband about her stutter until after they were married! She is a fitness enthusiast, a mother of two children, a yoga teacher, and a somatic coach. She uses mindfulness and somatic techniques to help calm the nervous system. Next

Submit the screening form for When I Stutter, a powerful film about stuttering and its impact on lives worldwide. When I Stutter Documentary Director: John Gomez 2017 This powerful documentary delves into the profound emotional impact that stuttering has on a diverse group of individuals. Watch The Trailer Host a Screening NSA Chapter Leaders have a unique opportunity to host a special screening of WHEN I STUTTER, an award-winning documentary, to raise awareness about stuttering and support fundraising efforts for their local NSA Chapter. Before submitting your request, please review the WHEN I STUTTER Step-by-Step Screening Guide. This guide provides essential instructions for hosting a screening, from selecting a screening partner and venue to effectively marketing the event. Plan for an event that lasts approximately two hours, including both the screening and a panel discussion featuring NSA chapter members. To ensure a successful event, please schedule your screening at least 7 weeks in advance of submitting the form below. 'When I Stutter' Screening Form * Chapter Leader First name * Chapter Leader Last name * Email * Phone * NSA Chapter Name * I have read the WHEN I STUTTER Step-by-Step Screening Guide? Yes No * Date of Movie Screening * Time of Movie Screening * Location of Movie Screening (complete address) * Movie Screening Partner [NOTE: Screening Partner must be a College/University Speech Disorders Clinic, local Non-Profit, local Disability Rights organization, or something similar.] * Screening Partner Contact Name * Screening Partner Email * Screening Partner Phone SUBMIT

Join the Boca Raton - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Boca Raton ADULT CHAPTER VIRTUAL MEETINGS SOUTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Florida State Welcome to the NSA Boca Raton 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? Virtual Meetings When? Virtual meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00PM Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Dale Williams Chapter Leader Get in touch! dwilliam@fau.edu (561) 297-3238 - 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 Lexington - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Lexington ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL MEETINGS SOUTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Kentucky State Welcome to the NSA Lexington 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? Good Samaritan Professional Arts Center 4th Floor Suite 402 135 E Maxwell Street, Lexington, KY, 40508 When? Meetings are held in-person on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM. Contact Chapter Leader if you would like to join virtually. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? J.T. Dials & Meg Shake Chapter Leaders Get in touch! lexington.nsa@gmail.com 606-626-8862 - 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 Aryanna Tillman, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Aryanna Tillman Sisters Who Stutter Vice President Aryanna, a vibrant 15-year-old, serves as the Vice President of Sisters Who Stutter (SWS), a teen-founded initiative under the National Stuttering Association (NSA). SWS is dedicated to empowering and supporting girls who stutter, creating a safe and inclusive space for them to connect, share experiences, and embrace their unique voices. As Vice President, Aryanna plays a key role in inspiring confidence and fostering community among her peers, embodying the values and mission of both SWS and the NSA. Since the age of 6, Aryanna has been passionate about cheerleading, a sport that reflects her enthusiasm, determination, and ability to work as part of a team. In addition to her leadership and athletic pursuits, Aryanna enjoys exploring her creativity through photography, capturing moments that tell stories. She also loves baking delicious treats and spending time babysitting, showcasing her nurturing and thoughtful personality. After high school, Aryanna aspires to make a difference in the medical field, with ambitions of becoming a cancer nurse or doctor. Her drive to help others aligns with her commitment to advocacy and leadership within SWS. With her compassion, creativity, and determination, Aryanna is poised to make a meaningful impact both within the stuttering community and beyond.

< Back Previous Mike Gioscia Presenter Mike Gioscia is a member of the National Stuttering Association (NSA) Boston Chapter, a parent of a 22-year-old who stutters, and is co-host of the monthly NSA Parents & Caregivers Zoom call. Next

Learn how Anna Boyd,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. English Language Arts Teacher Anna Boyd Briefly describe your daily job duties. I teach 7th Grade English Language Arts. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. As a teacher who has to read aloud to her class, I find that to be the most challenging. I also find gaining respect in the workplace to be challenging. I often feel that adult coworkers are more likely to see my stutter has a hindrance to my teaching ability than my students. 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? Yes, I did. I said I had a stutter, but it didn’t have me. I was often told that I was never going to be a teacher due to my stutter. Today, with each day one of school, I tell my students that I stutter. (But we all know each of us has something. It’s just my something is more noticeable.) Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I listen more. I take time to hear people out. Co-workers come to me when they have a student who stutters, and that makes me feel that I am contributing in ways that others cannot. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I have a student who stutters this year. And, he told me that I was the only teacher he had who has believed in him and told him that he could be and do anything in life he wanted. What are your long-term career aspirations? I plan to teach middle school for the rest of my career! 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 let stuttering control you. You have a stutter, but it doesn’t have you. You are going to write the narrative for your workplace experience so be positive, but open with people. Realize that your stutter makes you who you are, and that you have just as much, and more to offer than someone who does not stutter.