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< Back Jeff Olevson: 24 Years of Community & Connection For Jeff Olevson, it all started with a simple desire: to meet other people who stutter. That was 24 years ago, and he’s been all in ever since. “The NSA helped me accept my stuttering,” Jeff says. Whether he’s meeting someone new, cheering them on, or belting out Christina Aguilera’s “Dirrty” at karaoke (yes, really), Jeff brings authenticity and energy to every conversation. His advice for newcomers? Be a sponge. “Embrace everything you learn. Be open to new opportunities.” When he’s not connecting with the community or rewatching Friends, Jeff’s dreaming of Hawaii, imagining life with a dog, or thinking up ways to serve, he’s even a past president of the Sunnyvale Rotary Club. Stuttering may be part of Jeff’s story, but community is at the heart of it. And after two decades with the NSA, he’s still just as passionate as day one. Previous Next

< Back Courtney Abadiotakis Speaker Courtney Abadiotakis is a person who stutters and has been attending NSA conferences for the past 17 consecutive years. Stuttering since the age of 3, Courtney has found a supportive, extended family and life long friends through the NSA. Despite her stutter, Courtney is dedicated to communication and is fluent in sign language. She is happily married living in Florida with two great kids, Joey (4) and Sophia (2)! She loves to travel, exploring new places and cultures! Courtney holds degrees in Psychology and a masters in School Counseling, and aims to make a positive impact in people's lives! Finding the NSA changed Courtney's life allowing her to become the best version of herself! Previous Next

Join the Detroit/Royal Oak - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Detroit/Royal Oak ADULT CHAPTER HYBRID MEETINGS CENTRAL NORTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Michigan State Welcome to the NSA Detroit/Royal Oak 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? Hybrid 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? St. John’s Episcopal Church – 26998 Woodward Avenue (East corner of 11 Mile Road) Royal Oak, MI 48067 When? Meetings are held on the 4th Thursday of each month from 6:30-8:30PM. Meetings in January, February, March, October, November, & December are held online. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Tanya Banks & Kelley Duren-Jones Chapter Leaders Get in touch! tbanks7917@sbcglobal.net (734) 425-9565 - 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! ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. 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 Elizabeth Edwards, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Elizabeth Edwards Seasoned Voices Committee Elizabeth Edwards, a member of the National Stuttering Association’s (NSA) Seasoned Voices Committee, is a passionate advocate for both the stuttering community and the aging population. A proud person who stutters, Elizabeth has been actively involved with the NSA since attending her first conference in Chicago in 2018. Her journey within the NSA reflects her commitment to fostering connections and supporting individuals across all stages of life. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Elizabeth is a dedicated public health coordinator for a state health department. During the pandemic, she earned her MA in Aging Studies and Public Health, furthering her expertise and deepening her commitment to serving the aging population. Her professional work is complemented by her active volunteer roles, where she continues to make an impact in her community. Elizabeth is also a proud alumna of the University of Iowa and a devoted Hawkeyes fan, bringing enthusiasm and team spirit to all she does. Her diverse experiences and dedication to advocacy make her a valuable member of the NSA and a champion for raising awareness about stuttering and aging issues. With her blend of professional expertise and personal passion, Elizabeth is helping to shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for people who stutter, particularly older adults. Her work is a testament to her belief in the power of community and her drive to create positive change.

Learn how Jeff Brown,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Postdoctoral Research Associate Jeff Brown Briefly describe your daily job duties. As a postdoctoral researcher in a neuroscience lab, I lead several experimental and computational projects aimed at better understanding how brain networks organize and tune themselves at the level of individual brain cells during the course of behavior. This sees me spending a good amount of time optically recording from live brains (those of sea slugs in my case!), while taking time to analyze data and write scientific code on my computer. The most rewarding part of my job involves mentoring graduate students, medical students, and undergraduates, however. Before starting my current position, I was honored to have taught and directed a clinical neuroscience course at a large medical school in Illinois for several years. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Since being a scientist depends on presenting your work and sharing your knowledge others, I do a fair amount of public speaking in my position; that was the case at a whole other level when I was lecturing to an auditorium full of medical students in my previous position! Sometimes–and particularly if I’m having a dysfluent day–maintaining fluency while speaking can be exhausting, and that fatigue sometimes amplifies the existing dysfluency. No matter what, however, I commit to making sure that I’m always able to say what I need to. What are your long-term career aspirations? Although I’m currently in a research-intensive position, I hope to land a faculty position at a liberal arts college in the next several years, in which I expect to have a small research laboratory of my own but otherwise hope to be able to pour myself into teaching and mentoring, which, as you may have figured out by now, are my foremost passions. If I have the opportunity to author a few books in the process, all the better! Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? After many years of being terrified about self-disclosing, I have become accustomed to speaking openly about my stutter, including with my current employer and colleagues, though I’d be lying if I said I’m ever entirely comfortable doing it. Nonetheless, I find that the less dramatically you self-disclose (e.g., “Oh, by the way, I should mention that I have a stutter, and you might sometimes hear me pause on or prolong certain words.”), the less importance the people to whom you disclose assign to it. Sometimes, people will tell me that they had no idea I stuttered, while others had apparently already realized; some people will follow up with a series of questions or show support, while others barely acknowledge that I’ve mentioned it. Regardless of the response it elicits, self-disclosure is first and foremost for your benefit: that’s a lesson I continue to learn! What is your proudest moment at your current company? Several years ago, I had a medical student in my clinical neuroscience course who consistently performed towards the bottom of my class. Although very bright and industrious, he had a difficult time wrapping his head around the course material, much to his frustration and disappointment. At one point during the semester, I held a learning session on infections of the central nervous system; since this student had a Master’s degree in infectious diseases, I thought this would be a wonderful opportunity for him to shine and hopefully bolster his confidence. After consulting with the student before our learning session, I asked him to share his expertise on a specific topic of relevance during the course of a whole-class discussion: it was so incredibly rewarding to watch him light up as he spoke passionately and authoritatively about this topic. When he was finished, the entire class of 140 students gave him a round of applause. Those are truly the moments you live for as a teacher. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I’d like to think that I’m a better listener and more compassionate person in general as a PWS; it literally gives me pause in my life! At the same time, my stutter and the journey I’ve taken in becoming more comfortable coexisting with it have impressed upon me how liberating it is to be able to speak your mind without hesitation, no matter what your level of fluency in the moment happens to be. While these influences inform my approach to interacting with people in my research, I think my experiences as a PWS has more profoundly shaped my philosophy as a teacher: I strive to go the extra mile in listening to my students and taking the time to understand their learning and personal needs on a one-by-one basis. I try to serve not only as a content expert, but also a source of mentorship, empathy, and general support. I’d also like to think that the degree to which I’m transparent about my stuttering humanizes me, inviting my students to confide in me in return. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Never doubt for a moment that you’re fully qualified to be where you are and doing what you’re doing! You have succeeded in spite of your stutter, and you’re a lot more–and have a lot more to say–than whatever words you may repeat, prolong, or block on. Never be ashamed that you stutter, or about anything else over which you lack control. Don’t hesitate to show some vulnerability by self-disclosing: not only can it be personally empowering, but it also stands to strengthen the relationships between you and those with whom you interact in your workplace. Above all, seek our help and mentorship when you need it: as a PWS, you are never alone!

Learn how Nina Zito,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Elementary School Teacher Nina Zito Briefly describe your daily job duties. As an elementary public school teacher, I plan and execute lessons for my students in word work, reading, writing, math, science, social studies and social emotional learning. I interact with my colleagues and the parents of my students on a daily basis. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job is never knowing how my stutter will be that day. There are many activities I am required to do such as Parent Teacher Communication, Observations and Read Alouds that I have to do, even when speaking is difficult. 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 disclosed my stuttering right away and it was very well received by my administration and colleagues. Every May for Stuttering Awareness Week, I have a table in the main lobby with information and giveaways (thanks NSA) to educate others on stuttering and what exactly it entails because quite honestly, most people just don’t know! Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. Stuttering definitely makes me more understanding and a better listener and educator because I know what it’s like to have a struggle and overcome that struggle, whether it is “seen” or “unseen.” What is your proudest moment at your current company? My proudest moment right now is of my students who are doing a wonderful job at remote learning. What are your long-term career aspirations? I would love to continue to teach and educate students and their parents and if some education about stuttering is included, that would be wonderful. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Days might be challenging and speaking might be hard but you are your biggest advocate. Advertising my stutter always worked well for me and I hope it does for you too. We are all in this together and you most definitely should not give up on your dreams because you are not alone in this!

< Back Rita Thurman Speaker Rita Thurman has worked in schools and clinical settings in Utah, Idaho, Illinois, Montana, Virgina and South/North Carolina. Her practice focuses on the evaluation and treatment of children, teens and adults who stutter. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Stuttering, Cluttering and Fluency Disorders and served as Chair on the Executive Board of the American Board of Stuttering, Cluttering and Fluency Disorders. Ms. Thurman was awarded the NC Clinical Achievement Award in 2012, the NSA SLP of the Year Award in 2015 and the NSA Chapter of the Year Award in 2021--for her work to improve services for children/adults who stutter. Ms. Thurman has presented workshops on stuttering at both a state and national level. She has participated in the International Stuttering Awareness Day on-line conference and contributed a chapter in the book: Stuttering–Inspirational Stories, Professional Wisdom. She is a NSA Adult and TWST (Teens Who STutter) Chapters leader. Previous Next

< Back Seasoned Voices Committee Spotlight: Patrice Nolan Fox — Strength, Storytelling & Support The National Stuttering Association’s Seasoned Voices Committee continues growing, bringing together people over 50 looking for connection, mentorship, and shared experience. One of the inspiring voices within that group is Patrice Nolan Fox, a longtime member whose impact spans two decades. Patrice’s NSA journey began 20 years ago when a friend told her she’d love the community and should come to a meeting. That one invitation led to a life-changing experience. “They were right—I loved it. The NSA has helped me become much more open about my stuttering.” Patrice is not only a person who stutters but also a speech-language pathologist, giving her a unique dual perspective in our community. She’s spent 37 years as an educator, helping others learn and grow while learning a lot about herself. She serves on the Seasoned Voices Committee, which offers mature perspectives to the NSA’s broader goals—bringing insight to workshops, events, and resources designed to support people navigating life over 50. Patrice is incredibly passionate about creating a space where adults can feel empowered to embrace their voices—at any age. “Be open and don’t be afraid,” she advises new members. Fun facts: Favorite ice cream: Chocolate chip cookie dough Favorite TV show: Here Come the Brides Pet: A sweet kitty named Peaches Fun fact: She loves to act! Dream vacation: Scottsdale, Arizona Whether she’s offering support to a new member, mentoring others, or sharing her story as both an SLP and a person who stutters, Patrice embodies what it means to be a powerful part of the NSA family. Thank you, Patrice, for your dedication, openness, and unwavering support. You make our community stronger! Previous Next

Join the Manhattan, KS - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Manhattan ADULT CHAPTER HYBRID MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Kansas State Welcome to the NSA Manhattan 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? Hybrid 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? Kansas State University – Campus Creek Complex, and online using Zoom. When? Hybrid meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:00PM Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Jayden McCall Chapter Leader Get in touch! ManhattanNSA@gmail.com (316) 680-1524 - 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! ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. 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

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 Pamela Mertz Speaker Pamela Mertz has been an active member of the NSA and stuttering community at large for many years. She is an advocate and champion for women who stutter, as evidenced by her popular podcast "Women Who Stutter: Our Stories." Pam has served on the Boards of both the NSA and the International Stuttering Association. She has been a keynote speaker for the NSA and several international stuttering associations. She was inducted into the NSA Hall of Fame in 2022. Previous Next

< Back Erica Perez: A Wolverine at Heart, an NSA Supporter for Life If you've been to one of our Annual Conferences in the past two decades, there's a good chance you’ve crossed paths with Erica Perez, or at least seen her helping things run smoothly behind the scenes with her signature calm. Erica first got involved with the NSA in 2002, back when our office was in Anaheim. “I was hired to help answer phones,” she says, “and helped at the Nashville conference. After that I came back to the Conference almost every year.” And she's been coming back nearly every year since. Erica doesn’t stutter, but the community she found here is what keeps her showing up. “As someone who doesn't stutter, I have come to love many of these people and I will always consider them family.” The NSA hasn’t just changed how Erica spends her Fourth of July week, it’s also changed how she listens. “I have never been a person who has a lot of patience, but I have learned to step back, listen and really hear what someone is saying, both literally and figuratively.” Family is a big part of Erica’s world. Her parents, Jim and Lee, have worked the NSA store for years, and her husband Aaron and kids, Lily and AJ, have grown up as part of the conference crew. It’s a family affair in the truest sense. Erica’s advice for newcomers? Get involved. “There is truly a group for everyone, whether it is your local Chapter or our amazing groups online. You never have to say anything but listen. You will eventually be the person leading a group or a workshop.” She may not karaoke, but she’s always game for peanut butter and chocolate ice cream and dreams of someday visiting Tahiti or Maui. From answering phones in Anaheim to helping build a movement, Erica’s story reminds us that stuttering touches more than just the person who stutters, it brings people together. And sometimes, it brings you family. Previous Next