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

Learn how Ronan Miller,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Postdoctoral Research Assistant Ronan Miller Briefly describe your daily job duties. The project I am currently working on is focused on developing and testing a mobile app to support people who stutter. I feel very grateful to do research into stuttering and particularly into new ways that we can support the stuttering community around the world. My day is normally spent reading research conducted in various different areas, planning and organizing our next research study, and talking to people who stutter about their day-to-day lives and experiences. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. I have daily meetings over video calls but they aren’t too much of a problem now, I have become accustomed to them after my time as part of the hosting team at Stutter Social. I think the most challenging part of my job is thinking of ways that we can support people who stutter in the present, whilst working to breakdown barriers so that stuttering won’t hold people back in the future. What are your long-term career aspirations? For many years I taught English as a foreign language and I would love to return to teaching again, particularly to support students who stutter. My dream is to work in some kind of super lab that combines stuttering research, activism, support, and teaching! Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? In lots of ways, stuttering is an advantage for me at this point in my life; I work with many other people who stutter and we talk about it openly on a daily basis. Whenever I meet anyone new I am also very open about stuttering, it is never a problem. I let people know my name, my position, that I stutter and that it’s no problem. I am aware some people have had no contact before with people who stutter, or don’t know how to respond to stuttering, so I feel a responsibility to let people know that this is how I speak and that it’s ok. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. My stuttering is a valuable aspect of my contribution at work, it allows me to offer personal, lived insight and to connect with others who also stutter. It has also taught me that communication is not always straightforward, but that patience and respect go a long way to helping others (whether they stutter or not) to feel comfortable. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? I would encourage people to be open about their stuttering, it can be difficult but by doing so you demonstrate leadership, integrity, and resilience, all of which are valuable characteristics in any working environment. My feeling is that people who stutter enrich workplaces and if we can be open about our stuttering we help to foster an atmosphere in which others can be open and vulnerable too.

< Back Board of Directors Spotlight: Chad Mannisi – Leading with Heart, Humor, and Hope Some leaders inspire with strategy. Others with compassion. Chad Mannisi brings both—and for over 20 years, he’s helped shape the NSA into the supportive, thriving community it is today. Chad first discovered the NSA when he attended a conference on the recommendation of friends from his speech therapist’s support group. That experience was life-changing. “The people I met were very welcoming and friendly. The sense of community and family was everywhere. It was on my way home after my first conference, thinking over the events of the week, that I decided to join the NSA and never looked back.” Since then, Chad has led with vision and heart. He began by revitalizing the St. Louis Chapter, then joined the Board of Directors as Adult Programs Co-Chair, where he focused on streamlining chapter operations and improving leadership systems. Now, as Board Chair, Chad is dedicated to preparing the NSA for long-term success and growth—ensuring its legacy for future generations. “I'm proud of how I'm helping the NSA evolve and get set up for success far into the future. Every Board member I've worked with, and continue to work with, has certainly helped me achieve this goal.” Beyond strategy and structure, Chad is known for something else: joy. “I love to laugh and have fun. I definitely know when it's time to get serious and things need to get done, but if I can do things while having fun and enjoying the task, I will.” Chad shares that the NSA has had a profound impact on his life—helping him understand that he’s not alone, and that he doesn’t need to let external events define his self-worth. “The NSA has impacted my life in so many ways. I've learned I'm not alone, that there are people who have gone through so many of the same things I have. I have many people I call family all over the country. I know I have a place to stay in almost every state, or great company over dinner if I'm ever in town. I know for certain that the NSA has helped my self confidence and self esteem, and I would not be the man I am today if it were not for the NSA.” Chad’s advice to new members: ”Fear may have been a constant companion of yours for most of your life. The NSA is one of the few places you can be your true self, wholly and fully, and where no one will judge you or make fun of you because of your speech.” Get to know Chad: Favorite ice cream: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Nature pick: Beach Favorite rewatch: Once Upon a Time Go-to karaoke song: “Giddy Up” by Shania Twain Pet: Dino, his beloved cat Dream vacation: Italy Chad’s legacy is not only in the systems he’s helped improve or the chapters he’s supported—but in the hope and community he brings to every room he enters. Thank you, Chad! Previous Next

Join the Cookeville - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Cookeville ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter-Tennessee State Welcome to the NSA Cookeville Chapter 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? The Table Board Game Lounge 18 W Spring Street, Cookeville, TN 38501 When? 3rd Sunday of each month 1:30-3:00 Central Time First Meeting on October 19, 2025 Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Shannon Buford Chapter Leader Get in touch! cookevillestutters@gmail.com 931-644-7074 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 I need to RSVP before attending? While you don’t need to RSVP before attending, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) before the meeting to let them know you’re coming. We love knowing who to look for at a meeting! 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 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 Spotlight on the Older Adults Committee: A Voice of Wisdom, Connection, and Confidence Meet a longtime member of the NSA who embodies the heart of what it means to be unapologetically yourself. Vicki Schutter been part of the NSA since 1985, when we were still known as the National Stuttering Project (NSP). Their journey began when a persistent fellow stutterer, Brian Koch, encouraged them to attend a meeting in Paula Campbell’s apartment. That first step led to a lifetime of connection, support, and transformation. “I had never been in a room with so many stutterers in my life,” she said. “It was life-changing.” Now a proud member of the Older Adults Committee, she helps represent the fastest-growing group in our organization: adults over 50. The committee offers a unique perspective on NSA initiatives, providing insight into workshops, mentoring, and planning events with a thoughtful eye toward later stages in life. But more than anything, this committee fosters a sense of belonging. It’s a place where mature members can reflect, connect, and continue to grow within our ever-expanding stuttering family. She says that one of their proudest accomplishments is simple yet powerful: “I always order exactly what I want in a restaurant. I never order something I think will be easier to say.” We celebrate that kind of confidence and self-acceptance at the NSA. Through their years of involvement, she’s learned to live with their stutter, not in spite of it, but with it—embracing who she is rather than striving for who she thinks she’s “supposed” to be. When she’s not advocating for the stuttering community, she’s enjoying their favorite things: Pecan Turtle Fudge ice cream Relaxing at the beach Singing California Dreamin’ at karaoke Caring for Ginger, their very spoiled orange-and-white cat Rewatching episodes of Star Trek Dreaming of visiting the lake region of northern Italy To anyone new to the NSA, their advice is clear: “Go to a conference! It will change your life forever, and you will meet people there who will be your friends for the rest of your lives.” We’re honored to have this member in our community and even more thrilled to see their continued leadership on the Older Adults Committee. Previous Next

Meet Monica Johnson, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Monica Johnson Research Committee Associate Member Monica L. Johnson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an assistant professor at Southeastern Louisiana University who focuses on empowerment through education not only to guide her teaching but also her clinical work, and research projects. She is currently working on research exploring dating, intimacy, & partner support for AWS. In her teaching role she prepares graduates and undergraduate students to work with and support those with communication deficits and their families/caregivers/spouses/partners and teaches courses that aim to infuse counseling and research principles into practice.

Join the Burlington - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Burlington ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS NORTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Vermont State Welcome to the NSA Burlington Adult Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person Meetings What age group can attend? Adult What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? University of Vermont Eleanor Luse Center (Pomeroy Hall waiting room) – 489 Main Street Burlington, VT 05405 When? Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 5:30-6:30PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Kim Bauerly & Danra Kazenski Chapter Leaders Get in touch! burlingtonstutters@gmail.com (802) 656-0250 - 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 I need to RSVP before attending? While you don’t need to RSVP before attending, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) before the meeting to let them know you’re coming. We love knowing who to look for at a meeting! 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 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 Boston - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Boston Adult ADULT CHAPTER HYBRID MEETINGS NORTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Massachusetts State Welcome to the NSA Boston 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? 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? Location may vary around the Boston area. When? Monthly meetings alternate between virtual and in-person meetings, and social events. Meetings are typically held on the 1st Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM. For details about meetings/events and for any other information, please contact the Chapter Leaders. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Sarah Onofri, Edmund Metzold, Lisa Greenleaf Chapter Leaders Get in touch! BostonStutters@gmail.com - http://www.bostonstutters.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 I need to RSVP before attending? While you don’t need to RSVP before attending, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) before the meeting to let them know you’re coming. We love knowing who to look for at a meeting! 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 Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "The NSA Boston Chapters gave me true belonging. I found people who feel like family—who check in, cheer me on, and make me feel seen. Parents and fellow adults became the strongest supporters of my voice. My growth began the moment I found this group." ---Michèle Ayoub "NSA meetings give me a rare space to openly discuss stuttering and learn from others’ experiences. The Boston Chapter is welcoming, and the monthly meetings help me meet people who stutter and get support for the challenges we share." ---Andrew Meier "My first NSA Boston gathering as a teen changed how I saw my stutter—I finally heard others stutter too. After attending the 2021 NSA Conference, I went from seeing my stutter as my enemy to seeing it as my greatest frenemy." ---Ethan Gioscia

< Back Elizabeth Minton’s Journey from Feeling Lost to Leading with Purpose When Elizabeth Minton developed an acquired stutter five years ago, she didn’t know where to turn. She felt isolated and uncertain—until she found the National Stuttering Association. “The NSA gave me a whole new community of amazing people and helped inspire me to become an SLP.” Now, four years into her involvement with the NSA, Elizabeth uses her experience to help others navigate their journeys. The NSA’s impact on Elizabeth has been both personal and professional. It opened doors, built friendships, and gave her the courage to chase a new dream: becoming an SLP. Elizabeth encourages new members to lean in with openness: “Be open to new friendships and new things.” And that spirit of courage has always been part of who she is. She was the first woman on her undergraduate university’s Ultimate Frisbee team—breaking barriers before she even knew she’d be helping others do the same in the stuttering world. Let’s get to know Elizabeth a little better: Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate Birthday Cake Favorite movie to rewatch: The Emperor’s New Groove Karaoke go-to: Anything by Panic! At The Disco Tea lover: especially a good cup of English Breakfast Dream vacation: Italy We’re grateful for Elizabeth’s leadership, passion, and vulnerability. No matter how your journey with stuttering begins, there is always a place for you here—and a way to turn your story into strength. Previous Next

Join the Lafayette - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Lafayette Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Louisiana State Welcome to the NSA Lafayette 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? Picard Center – 200 E Devalcourt Street (Room #122) Lafayette, LA, 70506 When? Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7:00PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Anne Williams, Bella Fiorenza, Evan Jordan & Lucas Credeur Chapter Leaders Get in touch! LafayetteNSA@gmail.com (337) 482-6870 - 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 I need to RSVP before attending? While you don’t need to RSVP before attending, it’s always a good idea to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) before the meeting to let them know you’re coming. We love knowing who to look for at a meeting! 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 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 Spotlight on the Professional Relations Committee: Megan Young’s Journey as an Ally and Advocate The NSA community includes people who stutter and allies who stand beside them. Today, we’re spotlighting Megan Young, a powerful voice in the NSA’s Professional Relations Committee and someone who has built her career around supporting people who stutter. Megan joined the NSA in 2019 during her doctoral program at The University of Texas at Austin. “I wanted to get more connected with the stuttering community,” she recalls, “so I started attending the Austin Chapter meetings occasionally as an ally.” Since then, Megan has been involved with the NSA for 6 years, growing her professional work and personal connections. In 2023, she successfully defended her dissertation and earned her Ph.D. in speech, language, and hearing sciences—an achievement we celebrate with her! Megan now serves on the Professional Relations Committee, a group focused on building bridges between the NSA and the wider professional world—especially speech-language pathologists (SLPs). The committee provides resources, creates continuing education content, and advocates for greater SLP participation in the stuttering community. “We want every single SLP to know about the NSA,” Megan explains, “and to feel empowered to engage with our work and our members.” For Megan, the NSA has been more than a professional network—it’s been a transformative personal experience. "I’ve been involved with the NSA for 6 years, initially joining to connect with the stuttering community during my doctoral program. As someone who doesn’t stutter, I’m deeply humbled by how welcoming and vibrant this community is. It’s been an incredible journey that’s shaped my work as a clinician, researcher, and advocate.” Her message to anyone new to the NSA? “You won’t regret coming to your first event — you’ll be welcomed with open arms!” And when Megan isn’t making waves in research or outreach, she’s embracing a life full of creativity and nature. Get to know Megan: Favorite ice cream flavor: S’mores Beach, mountains, or desert? Mountains, always. Go-to karaoke song: "Dancing in the Dark" – Bruce Springsteen Favorite rewatch: The Sopranos Pets: Two cats—Uma and Tito Hidden talent: Painting and ceramics Dream vacation: Exploring Patagonia We’re so grateful to have Megan’s dedication, passion, and perspective on the team. Her work continues to elevate the NSA’s mission—and we’re lucky to have her. Thank you, Megan! Previous Next

< Back Previous Andrea Burcham Presenter Andrea Burcham is a speech-language pathologist based in the Kansas City metro area. She transitioned to private practice after working in the public school system and has spent the past three years specializing in stuttering, dyslexia, and executive function support using neurodiversity-affirming approaches. She co-created and serves as a Chapter Leader for the National Stuttering Association’s Family Chapter in the Kansas City area. Andrea helps individuals embrace their voices while equipping families with the knowledge and tools to foster confidence, acceptance, and self-advocacy. Next