Be inspired by career success stories from people who stutter. Learn how they’ve overcome challenges and achieved their goals. Everyday people who happen to stutter and are thriving at work. People who stutter are achieving career success. They are making valuable contributions in the workplace and their employers are rewarded with having high-performing employees. The NSA is committed to sharing stories of real people who stutter in relatable jobs with organizations that value a person’s experience, skills and talents. Jaymie Horak Human Resources Analyst VIEW PROFILE Derek Mitchell Senior IT Service Strategy Analyst VIEW PROFILE John Moore Marketing Consultant & Keynote Speaker VIEW PROFILE Kunal Mahajan VP – Middle Market Leveraged Finance VIEW PROFILE Jonah Otis Senior Manager VIEW PROFILE Ian Mahler Receiving Manager VIEW PROFILE Catherine Moroney Scientific Software Engineer VIEW PROFILE David Alpuche Photographer/Entrepreneur VIEW PROFILE Rivky Susskind Speech Language Pathologist VIEW PROFILE Danette Fitzgerald Optical Systems Engineer VIEW PROFILE Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith Elementary School Principal VIEW PROFILE Shea Quinn Helicopter Pilot VIEW PROFILE Madeleine Maccar Magazine Editor VIEW PROFILE Nicole Osborne Paramedic VIEW PROFILE Logan Williamson Process Engineer VIEW PROFILE Kelsey Smith Interpreter VIEW PROFILE Ariel Sonn Marketing Coordinator VIEW PROFILE Hannah Dunn Sr. Elite Care Specialist VIEW PROFILE David Resnick Manager, Product Design VIEW PROFILE Dana Koprowski Center Director VIEW PROFILE Cameron Francek Technical Delivery Lead VIEW PROFILE Will Nading Infrastructure Leader - Water Design Center VIEW PROFILE Jeff Fett Marketing Director VIEW PROFILE Jonathan Lazenby Community Employment Specialist VIEW PROFILE Emily Anderson Environmental Specialist VIEW PROFILE Conor Quinn Commissioner & Restaurant Owner VIEW PROFILE Haley Aguayo Manager, Benefits & Compliance VIEW PROFILE Natalie Bragan Senior Financial Analyst VIEW PROFILE Carl Johnson Medical Unit Maintenance Tech VIEW PROFILE Steve Ernst Conference Events Specialist VIEW PROFILE Nina Zito Elementary School Teacher VIEW PROFILE Carolina Ayala Developmental Services Worker VIEW PROFILE Charles White, III Secret Service VIEW PROFILE Stacey Sabu Occupational Therapist VIEW PROFILE Justin James Chiropractor VIEW PROFILE Anna Boyd English Language Arts Teacher VIEW PROFILE Nora Sadik Water Resources Engineer VIEW PROFILE Jake Kail Field Project Manager VIEW PROFILE Landry Champlin Miss America Organization VIEW PROFILE James Hayden HLA Technologist VIEW PROFILE Lisa Barone Chief Marketing Officer VIEW PROFILE Heather Rose Corporate Security VIEW PROFILE Wladimir Lyra Assistant Professor VIEW PROFILE Leah Graham Social Worker VIEW PROFILE Lane Sanders Freelance Musician VIEW PROFILE Dr. Russell Zimmer Music Teacher, Trumpet Player/Instructor VIEW PROFILE Demetris Nichols Inspirational Speaker, Professional Basketball Player VIEW PROFILE Glenn Foster Systems Analyst VIEW PROFILE Rob Bloom Creative Director VIEW PROFILE Ben Zucker Airman VIEW PROFILE Adriana Flowers Corona Corps Care VIEW PROFILE Gareth Walkom Founder, Entrepreneur VIEW PROFILE Anthony Davis Credit Union Bank Teller VIEW PROFILE Ashley DeVitto CT and X-ray Technologist VIEW PROFILE Derek Sutor Special Education Teacher VIEW PROFILE David Haas Executive Director VIEW PROFILE Joe Bergren Marketing Director VIEW PROFILE Christopher Monello Senior Marketing Manager VIEW PROFILE Zac Rankin Tax Managing Director VIEW PROFILE David Belgard Energy Accountant VIEW PROFILE Peter Loring Owner & Doctor of Audiology VIEW PROFILE Anabel Augustin Youth Case Manager VIEW PROFILE Patrick Harvey Assistant Merchandise Manager VIEW PROFILE Ronan Miller Postdoctoral Research Assistant VIEW PROFILE Jeff Brown Postdoctoral Research Associate VIEW PROFILE Logan Hall Management Consulting VIEW PROFILE Jason Baker Professor of Music VIEW PROFILE Jonathan Pomerantz Facilities Engineer VIEW PROFILE Alexandra Russo M.S. - Speech Language Pathology VIEW PROFILE Nick Cicero Town Planner VIEW PROFILE Brittany Dahl Acute Care Nurse Practitioner VIEW PROFILE Joe McEvoy Chief Strategy Officer VIEW PROFILE Kristi Van Winkle Medical Content Writer and Proofreader VIEW PROFILE Craig Cieslik Health and History Teacher VIEW PROFILE Justin Keirans Product Manager VIEW PROFILE Madison Nichols Flow Cytometry Specialist VIEW PROFILE Trevor Bell Sr. IT Security Specialist VIEW PROFILE Wesley Freeman Cost Modeling Manufacturing Engineer VIEW PROFILE Desiree Tracie Cole Actress/Singer/Dancer VIEW PROFILE Aidan Marshall-Cort Manager & Personal Trainer VIEW PROFILE Corinne King Director of Events & Business Development VIEW PROFILE Liz Helton Lead Teacher VIEW PROFILE Heather McLeod Pilates Instructor VIEW PROFILE Brendan Mahoney Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Registered Nurse VIEW PROFILE David Lamberti Creative Director VIEW PROFILE Samuel Dunsiger Accessibility Advisor VIEW PROFILE Glenn Karwoski Managing Director and Adjunct Professor VIEW PROFILE Eamonn Hubert Musician VIEW PROFILE Kaleb Brown Front Desk Associate VIEW PROFILE John Raab Sr. Manager Flight Software & Spacecraft Simulation VIEW PROFILE Bryant Anderson Recreation Leader VIEW PROFILE Leigh Gaston Assistant Editor VIEW PROFILE Chris Heathwood Associate Professor VIEW PROFILE Owen Kaelble Content Management Assistant VIEW PROFILE Leonardo Soto Detective / Hostage Negotiator VIEW PROFILE Kazi Sarjana Safain Doctoral Graduate Research Assistant VIEW PROFILE Kylie Pell Associate Teacher VIEW PROFILE Steven Dunn Trial Lawyer VIEW PROFILE Margaret Heffernan Production Manager | Producer VIEW PROFILE Sharon Emery Senior Consultant VIEW PROFILE Tyler Clemens District Manager VIEW PROFILE Kirsten Silvey Internal Medicine / Geriatric Medicine VIEW PROFILE Kimberly Reese Candle Production VIEW PROFILE John Finn Chief Scientific Advisor (CSO) VIEW PROFILE Edward DeBrae Contact Lens Coordinator VIEW PROFILE Jon Mohr Honda Deployment Specialist / Composer VIEW PROFILE

Meet Tatum Machnica, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Tatum Machnica Young Adults Committee Tatum was born, raised, and currently resides in Huntsville, AL. She received her Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering and her Masters degree in Systems Engineering from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) She currently works for a government contracting company, providing Systems Engineering support to the Army. Tatum’s passion is supporting the warfighter and she enjoys the hands on approach that engineering provides. When she’s not working or hanging out with friends you can find her teaching Pure Barre, attending HIIT classes, cycling, running, reading, or traveling with her husband. Tatum’s first NSA conference was in 2018, where the NSA community quickly became family. She is so grateful and excited to serve on the NSA Young Adults Committee.

The NSA provides support, resources, and advocacy for people who stutter. Discover connection and community across the nation. If You Stutter, You Are Not Alone 79 Million People Stutter Worldwide The National Stuttering Association believes in a more accepting and understanding world for people who stutter. JOIN OUR COMMUNITY How We Help We’re here for every part of the journey. From Local Chapters to national events, we create spaces where people who stutter feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are. We also raise awareness, educate the public, and help fuel scientific research to shape a better future for our community. LEARN MORE Who We Help We support people who stutter, their families, SLPs, students, educators, and employers, offering resources, support groups, and educational tools. PEOPLE WHO STUTTER FAMILIES SLPs STUDENTS Support The NSA Support isn't one-size-fits-all. Whether you care most about kids finding their voice or adults reclaiming theirs, there's a way to give that feels just right for you. Pick your passion. Fuel the mission. MAKE A DIFFERENCE Find Your People You were never meant to figure this out alone. Our support groups are where life-changing connections happen and stuttering feels a little less heavy. GET CONNECTED MEET THE TEAM Latest Resources Upcoming Events NSA Connects with Healthcare Professionals: Where Care Counts More Than How We Sound Tue, Aug 25 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Kids Club Wed, Aug 26 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Connects: DEI Think Tank Wed, Aug 26 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Connects with Passing Twice Thu, Aug 27 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates Parents and Caregivers Virtual Chapter Meeting Thu, Sep 03 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates Sisters Who Stutter Sun, Sep 06 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Connects: Grief - An Underlying and Often Unspoken Universal Experience Wed, Sep 09 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP NSA Southeastern PA Family Chapter: Back to School Event Thu, Sep 10 Chester County Library Burke Meeting Rm. MORE INFO LEARN MORE Multiple Dates NSA Connects Bil Arabi: Discovering Our Voice Tue, Sep 15 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Multiple Dates NSA Women Connect Thu, Sep 17 Virtual Event MORE INFO RSVP Load More Featured Videos to Inspire and Educate Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Play Video Load More Join Our Community Be the first to hear about events, resources, and community updates. Join our mailing list today. SUBSCRIBE NOW

Partner with the National Stuttering Association to support people who stutter, fund impactful programs, and build more inclusive workplaces. Explore partnership opportunities today. Corporate Partnerships Build something meaningful with the stuttering community. The NSA has supported people who stutter for over 45 years. Partner with us to create more inclusive workplaces, fund life-changing programs, and connect your organization to a cause that matters. Start a Partnership View Partnership Levels Our Impact & Reach Partner with an organization making a real difference 70M+ People worldwide who stutter 7.7M People reached by NSA communications nationwide in 2025 51,000+ Educational resource accessed in 2025 164 Active local chapters nationwide PARTNERSHIPS Partnership Opportunities Select the partnership level that best reflects your ongoing commitment and capacity. Founding Partner $50,000+ Gain maximum visibility and collaborate with NSA leadership to co-create initiatives that reflect our aligned goals and values and drive the biggest impact. Includes: All Champion Partner benefits Co-development of signature programs Premier conference recognition Quarterly briefings with NSA leadership Custom employee engagement plan Dedicated partnership manager Premier placement across all NSA materials Start Partnership Champion Partner $25,000–$49,999 Activate strong visibility and meaningful employee engagement that signals a lasting organizational commitment. Includes: All Supporting Partner benefits Program naming opportunities Conference VIP access and recognition Bi-annual impact reports Employee volunteer coordination Logo placement across NSA materials Social media collaboration Start Partnership Supporting Partner $10,000–$24,999 Drive specific programs or events, with meaningful recognition and employee engagement. Includes: Conference program listing NSA website recognition Quarterly email feature Recognition in event materials Annual impact summary Employee engagement opportunities Social media recognition Start Partnership Community Partner $5,000–$9,999 A foundational partnership that connects your organization to the stuttering community and demonstrates your commitment to inclusion with room to grow. Includes: Conference program listing NSA website recognition Quarterly email feature Start Partnership All partnerships are flexible and can be tailored to your organization's goals. Not sure where to start? We're happy to talk through what makes sense for you. Contact Us

The WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program empowers professionals who stutter to grow in confidence and career success through one-on-one mentoring, networking, and community support. BECOME A MENTOR Share your experience, support career growth, and help people who stutter feel more confident navigating the workplace. Apply as a Mentor View Participants Join the Mailing List For Mentors Mentoring through WeStutter@Work is a meaningful way to give back to the stuttering community while supporting someone’s professional growth. As a mentor, you can offer encouragement, perspective, career guidance, and lived or professional experience that helps a participant feel more confident in the workplace. Why Become a Mentor? Make a lasting impact Support someone as they navigate career decisions, workplace communication, interviews, confidence, and self-advocacy. Develop leadership and coaching skills Mentorship strengthens skills like active listening, empathy, feedback, guidance, and thoughtful communication. Expand your professional network Connect with other mentors and participants from a wide range of industries, backgrounds, and lived experiences. Gain fresh perspective Mentoring is a two-way relationship. Many mentors learn from their mentees while offering support, guidance, and encouragement. Support workplace inclusion By mentoring, you help build more inclusive professional spaces where people who stutter are respected, supported, and heard. Learn from the community Whether you're a person who stutters or a dedicated ally, mentoring is a two-way street. Many mentors report learning just as much from their mentees as they give—especially when it comes to navigating workplace dynamics, communication styles, and resilience. Mentors receive resources and guidance from the WS@W committee to support their mentees effectively and become part of a growing professional network committed to workplace inclusion. It’s a chance to give back, build community, and grow personally and professionally. Our Mentors John Nunamaker Hi I'm John. I stuttered severely until the age of about 19. It's gotten way better but stil happens daily. Got through college made friends, and have had a successful career in sales, where I need to speak with people daily. Hoping to provide some perspective, advice, and mainly lend an ear to help others. LinkedIn URL Dan Sura I’m Dan Sura, a 41-year-old Senior Buyer – Capital Investments at Volvo Group in Greensboro, NC, where I lead cross-functional capex projects, Mexico sourcing initiatives, and supplier development. I also bring over 10 years of automotive industry experience in procurement, project management, and cross-functional leadership. I’m a husband and father of two young daughters (Reina and Gianna), a bilingual English/Spanish speaker, and an active Christian who integrates faith, therapy, and community into my daily life. I’ve lived with a stutter my entire life, and it has shaped many of my challenges and victories—from navigating high-pressure work environments and building team connections, to pursuing new goals like becoming a real estate agent to demonstrate that people who stutter can thrive in any field while serving the Latino community. This past July, I attended the National Stuttering Association conference, where I vulnerably shared my story through a letter to my 12-year-old self, a speech, and a slam poem—embracing my voice, ADHD, faith, family, and the power of healing through openness. I’m excited to join the mentor program to support others on their journeys, offering practical encouragement, professional insight, and the reminder that our differences can become sources of strength and connection. LinkedIn URL Andrew Herrick Andrew Herrick (PWS) is a big believer in Speaking Imperfectly! As a design and manufacturing engineer, small business entrepreneur, and project manager, Andy has navigated many challenges of professional communication. He believes that people who stutter belong everywhere in the workplace, from board room to back room, and that only by accepting your voice as imperfect can you confidently pursue perfect communication with others. Outside of work, you might find Andy climbing a mountain, reading a novel, studying for his latest industry certification, whitewater kayaking, visiting extended family, attending a theatre show, or building something weird in his garage. Alyssa Gemellaro I'm Alyssa Gemellaro, a second-grade teacher with a passion for education and a personal understanding of the challenges of stuttering, as I've stuttered since elementary school. With a degree in Elementary Education and a master's in Educational Technology, I bring both expertise and empathy to my classroom. Outside of teaching, I coach soccer, run the student council, enjoy going on walks, and love to read. I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Jordan Langston My name is Jordan Langston. I'm originally from Philadelphia. I completed my B.S. in chemistry at Oakwood University in Huntsville, AL, and my masters and Ph.D. in bioengineering at Temple University in Philadelphia. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology at Boston University Medical School. I've been in Boston for a little over a year now. My long-term career goal is to become a professor in a medical school department at a university. In my potential role, I will develop and maintain a funded research program that focuses on kidney disease using cell biological, computational and pathological tools to unravel the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to kidney disease, specifically in transplant patients. Besides being a person who stutters, I am also a transplant recipient, and so I am cognizant of the burden and toll that life-long monitoring, via routine blood work and daily immunosuppresion, has on a patient. Thus, I am adamant about advancing kidney precision medicine and helping those patients, like myself, who are lamenting for change. LinkedIn URL Lisa Rene' Brown I am a very down-to-earth kinda chick. I love making new connections and my passion is helping others to see themselves and become a better version of themselves. I graduated from columbia college chicago with a ba in journalism. I love writing stories, poems and songs. Storytelling and communication are my strong suits. I believe life itself is a story, everyone is a character with a specific role to play. There's many lessons to learn that catapult us to greatness. In my spare time, I'm a content creator posting positive spiritual content that enriches the lives of women. I also spend lots of time with my family and friends and love exploring my city. Coffee and good food is my love language. LinkedIn URL Gaurav Jalpota I have over 20 years of experience in finance, marketing, strategy and healthcare. I graduated with a degree in finance from Ohio State University and an MBA from Northwestern. Currently, I live in Columbus Ohio and am married with two teenage boys. I would love to share my experience navigating a career while managing stuttering in order to help others. LinkedIn URL Mia Hitterman Mia Hitterman is a person who stutters and has previously modeled and worked in production for various fashion brands. She earned her Bachelor of Fashion Design from Dominican University. In 2023, Mia received the Comcast Miss Community Service Award at the Miss Chinatown USA Pageant in San Francisco for her work in fashion and her advocacy for the stuttering community. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing, watching shows, and spending time with her friends. LinkedIn URL Arnee Gomez Arnee Gomez is a person who stutters and has been a member of the NSA since 1996. Arnee brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in Human Resources, where she has worked closely with business leaders to drive organizational success and create inclusive, supportive workplace cultures. As a leader and someone who stutters, she is passionate about making sure all voices are heard and has helped employees achieve their career goals. She is the founder of Aloft HR Partner, LLC, a talent strategy consulting firm that focuses on both strategic and tactical HR and talent management support. Arnee holds a bachelor's degree from the University of California, San Diego, and an M.B.A. from the University of Washington. LinkedIn URL Mallorie Guerra Mallorie was interested in speech and language development from a very young age, an interest that eventually and logically led to the field of speech-language pathology. Mallorie received a Master's degree from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, and has worked in multiple settings where one finds SLPs. Mallorie is a fierce advocate and ally for people who stutter and for people with disabilities. Outside of her career and volunteer work, Mallorie enjoys traveling, food, the great outdoors, reading books about Ernest Shackleton, listening to stand-up comedy, and speaking German. Industry: Speech Language Pathology Title: Speech Language Pathologist Eddie Brown I'm a proud person who stutters. I joined the National Stuttering Association when I was 12 years old, and that experience profoundly shaped my path toward becoming a speech-language pathologist. After earning my bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders from Auburn University, I completed my master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toledo, where I first became involved in stuttering research and earned an Advanced Certificate in Stuttering Intervention. Following graduate school, I began my career as a speech-language pathologist in Knoxville, Tennessee, working in private practice and schools across East Tennessee. Through these experiences, I saw a clear need for greater stuttering education, support, and resources—which inspired me to return to school for my Ph.D. I am now a fifth-year doctoral student at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where my research, teaching, and advocacy all center on stuttering. My work aims to bridge neuroscience and clinical practice to develop identity-affirming, evidence-based approaches to stuttering therapy. Throughout my doctoral training, I've been honored with the Dean's Award for research and community service, the Knoxville 40 Under 40 Award, and the National Stuttering Association's Krishnan Family College Scholarship. Beyond research, I continue to lead the Knoxville NSA Chapter and remain deeply committed to empowering people who stutter to find their voices and share their stories. LinkedIn URL Aidan Marshall-Cort Aidan is a Health and Wellness professional, public speaker, and advocate with a passion for helping individuals thrive at the intersection of physical health, mental well-being, and identity. With experience spanning Public Health Practice and Community Leadership, I bring a unique perspective that combines scientific knowledge with lived experience. Aidan serves as a Chapter Leader in the Washington, DC area and Chair of the Young Adult Committee for the National Stuttering Association, where I lead programming, advocacy, and community-building initiatives. Through this work, as well as public speaking engagements and media appearances, I champion conversations around stuttering, race, neurodiversity, and identity. LinkedIn URL Sara Merkle Sara Merkle, EdD, is a School Success Specialist at the University of Delaware's School Success Center and teaches courses in the College of Education and Human Development. Her interests include adolescent literacy instruction and achievement, curriculum development, influencing relationships between leaders and teachers, education equity, and advocacy for teachers and students. Dr. Merkle believes that education is a form of social justice, and she amplifies the voices and experiences of literacy educators in her instructional coaching and partners with them to drive practice and achievement. She is a person who stutters, a characteristic that has complicated and enhanced her life. LinkedIn URL Alonzo Jones Alonzo Jones, Jr., a person who stutters, serves as the Credit Manager at the Bank of Zachary, where he leads credit analysis and portfolio management while supporting the bank's strategic lending initiatives. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting from Louisiana State University and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Alonzo believes that personal challenges can be powerful teachers, his journey with stuttering has strengthened his empathy, resilience, and communication skills, qualities he brings into both his leadership and mentorship. Outside of work, he enjoys fitness, continuous learning, and spending time with his wife and son. LinkedIn URL Barry C. Shaul Barry Shaul, who stutters, is the founder of Shaul Consulting, a security firm specializing in strategic leadership. A former corporate senior executive, he is recognized for his collaborative approach and practical risk management. Before the private sector, Barry spent over a decade as a Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service, including a role as assistant shift leader on Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's protective detail. He began his career as a police officer in Orange, California. Barry holds a B.A. from Cornell College and an M.P.A. from the University of Minnesota. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his family as they work toward visiting all 50 states. LinkedIn URL Ashish Gupta Ashish has a Masters in Computer Science and specializes in Artificial Intelligence. His work experience spans startups and bigtech, mostly in the field of AI infrastructure. LinkedIn URL Chris Monello Chris Monello lives in Tinton Falls, New Jersey and is a person who stutters. He started attending NSA local chapter meetings in 2014 and was quickly comforted by the stuttering community and inspired to help others who stutter. In 2021, he joined the We Stutter at Work Board to help advocate for people who stutter in the workplace. He's passionate about his career as the Head of Marketing at Scientific American Magazine. When he isn't working, he enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling and yoga. LinkedIn URL Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith Dr. Saundra Russell-Smith is a proud person who stutters, an award-winning educator, and the founder of Limitless Leaders LLC, a leadership development company that helps people turn what limits them into what leads them. After three decades as a teacher, principal, and district administrator, as well as multiple degrees in education, she now empowers others to lead with authenticity and confidence—especially those with hidden disabilities. Her book, Limitless Leaders: Leading Beyond Your Disability, shares her journey from silence to strength and inspires others to own their voice at work and beyond. When she's not mentoring or speaking, she loves traveling, storytelling, and spending time with family. LinkedIn URL Expectations & Rules For Mentors Requirements To serve as a mentor, you must: Be at least 22 years old Reside in North America Be a Person Who Stutters (PWS) or a strong ally Be compassionate and eager to connect & help Have at least 2-3 years of working experience Be able to commit up to at least 1 hour monthly Rules All mentors are expected to: Be professional and courteous in your communication Any form of discrimination, harassment, or offensive behavior is strictly prohibited Keep all communications within the Google Group public unless you have explicit approval from other members to connect privately Restrict private communications to between you and your direct mentees Use respectful language that uplifts and encourages Expectations As a mentor, we encourage you to: Get to know your mentee - their career goals, personality, strengths and gaps Establish a regular meeting cadence (e.g., monthly check-ins) Listen actively and provide constructive feedback Help your mentee set realistic career goals, and check in on their progress Offer encouragement and validation—especially around stuttering-related workplace challenges Share your own professional experiences, strategies, and insights Refer mentees to resources, events, or networking opportunities when appropriate Communicate clearly to the WS@W committee if you’re ever unable to continue mentoring so that transition plan can be made Get Involved Join as Participant Apply as a Mentor Mailing List Contact Us Disclaimer: The National Stuttering Association (NSA) Mentorship Program is a voluntary peer-support program facilitated by NSA volunteers. Participation is at each individual’s discretion. The views and advice shared by mentors and mentees are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of the NSA. This program is not a substitute for professional therapy, counseling, or career services. The NSA does not evaluate participants, guarantee outcomes, or monitor individual interactions. The NSA is not responsible for any actions, decisions, or consequences arising from participation in the program. Participants are expected to engage respectfully and maintain confidentiality within the bounds of the program.

Learn how Steven Dunn,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Trial Lawyer Steven Dunn Dallas, TX Trial Lawyer Dunn Law Firm Briefly describe your daily job duties. Daily job duties include helping people who are disadvantaged due to mental health challenges, specifically eating disorders. As a trial lawyer, I help them seek justice, health care, and support in a loving and caring environment. As a father whose daughter was taken from him by anorexia, I know the pain caused by the loss of a loved one, and fight daily for the mental health of others. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. During trial I explain to the jury, “You may have noticed that I stutter. If that would be a problem for you to see my client objectively, let me know and we can talk to the judge about this”. What are your long-term career aspirations? Continuing to help others with their challenges! Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? As someone who is self-employed, the hiring process is not exactly applicable. However, I am very upfront talking with clients, new friends, and acquaintances about this. What is your proudest moment at your current company? Helping others to recover from eating disorders. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Be resilient!

< Back Supporter Spotlight: Ariel Sonn – From Silence to Strength When Ariel Sonn first joined the National Stuttering Association in 2017, it was during a pivotal season: her final year of college. After years of avoiding conversations about stuttering, she reached a place of acceptance — and longed to connect with others who stuttered too. Her first NSA conference was in Chicago in 2018, and it sealed the deal: Ariel was hooked. They found a community full of pride, honesty, and joy — and it changed everything. “I heard about the NSA from Vivian Sisskin. When I finally got to a place of acceptance in my stuttering journey, I decided that I wanted to meet more people with whom I could form close connections. For the longest time, I hated talking about stuttering. I couldn't even watch someone on TV stutter because it made me feel so ashamed. But then I realized the beauty and happiness of immersing yourself in a community of people who stutter and have no shame.” What followed was a complete transformation in Ariel’s relationship with stuttering. What once caused shame and silence now became a powerful part of her identity — one they proudly share. “I have moments of struggle almost every day, but the hold those moments have on me is nearly diminished.” These days, Ariel is the person her friends and family turn to for education and insight on stuttering. They’ve helped shape more inclusive, empathetic conversations — and they’re proud of it. My friends and family all support me and have shared moments where they have learned how to be better allies to other people who stutter that they've encountered in their lives. Those moments make me so proud.” Ariel’s advice to new NSA members? “Embrace everything. Have an open mind and open arms.” Get to know Ariel: Favorite ice cream: Cookies and cream Nature pick: Beach Favorite show: Gossip Girl Karaoke jam: Pink Pony Club Pets: None (yet!) Tattoo: A sparrow on her wrist to represent Jack Sparrow and the spirit of adventure 🇮🇹 Dream trip: Italy’s coastline From hiding her stutter to celebrating it as a gift, Ariel has become a beacon for others on their journeys. And through it all, the NSA community is better for having them in it. Ariel — thank you for your light, your voice, and your fierce support! Previous Next

< Back Previous Nihar Mahapatra Presenter Nihar Mahapatra, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the College of Engineering at Michigan State University. His research interests include computer architecture & VLSI and parallel and high-performance computing. In these areas, he has published more than 50 papers in leading refereed journals, conferences, and workshops, and has also contributed invited papers. Nihar is the PI of the HeardAI project. Next

< Back Listening Deeply, Learning Constantly: Meet Monica Johnson If you’ve ever met Monica Johnson, you’ve likely experienced two things: her deep respect for human connection… and a pun so good that it sticks with you all day. Monica is a speech-language pathologist (SLP), researcher, and teacher who brings warmth, curiosity, and heart into every space she’s in. Her journey with the National Stuttering Association (NSA) started during graduate school, but it wasn’t until she returned to earn her Ph.D. that things really clicked. Attending her first NSA Conference during that time proved to be a turning point. “Being part of the NSA during my education and clinical training has provided me with invaluable insights into the lived experiences of people who stutter,” she says. “It has deeply informed my clinical work, research, and teaching.” Monica didn’t just join the NSA to listen… she also joined to learn, to connect, and to reframe the way our field approaches stuttering. “Understanding stuttering goes far beyond fluency techniques and textbooks—it requires a deeper awareness of the social, emotional, and identity-related dimensions that shape everyday life.” That deeper awareness is at the core of her research, which explores how stuttering impacts romantic connection and self-perception in dating contexts, areas sometimes pushed to the margins of clinical conversations. For Monica, the NSA offers a space where these kinds of real-life experiences can finally take center stage. “This community is actively changing the narrative around stuttering—from a focus on ‘fixing’ to one rooted in empowerment, communication confidence, and genuine acceptance.” And while Monica is all about showing up with intention, she’s also all about showing up with joy. Especially when it comes to her favorite thing: relationships. “I’m obsessed with dating, intimacy, and all the ‘ships’—friendships, mentorships, partnerships, you name it,” she says. “Stuttering doesn’t exist in isolation—it lives in the spaces between people, in the pauses, the courage, the conversations.” Whether she’s in the therapy room or at a karaoke night absolutely not crushing the vocals (her words, not ours!), Monica makes it clear that it’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about people. It’s about the kind of growth that happens when we slow down, listen up, and learn from one another. “The NSA has created a space where real connection is possible. Where lived experiences and authentic voices are not only welcomed, but celebrated.” So what’s she proud of? Not the pitch-perfect karaoke, but the connections she’s built by simply showing up with care. “I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built by showing up with intention, openness, and respect—especially in spaces where people are trusting me with their voices and their stories.” Her advice to newcomers? “Come as you are—your voice, your pace, your story—it all belongs here.” And now, a few essential Monica facts: Favorite ice cream: Ben & Jerry's non-dairy The Tonight Dough. Mountains, beach, or desert?: Mountains. Favorite rewatch: Rom-coms from the ‘80s and ‘90s. Dream vacation: Hawaii. Karaoke style: Enthusiastic. Painfully off-key. Completely unbothered. Pets?: Technically, plant babies. Ask her about them and prepare for a full photo gallery. We’re lucky to have Monica in this community! Previous Next

Review the guidelines for applying for a case grant to support stuttering-related programs or initiatives. NSA CASE Research Grant Application Guidelines & Submission Instructions The NSA is committed to advancing research that enhances our understanding of stuttering in the areas of Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education (CASE) . We invite qualified researchers to apply for the $15,000 NSA CASE Research Grant by following the guidelines outlined below. Submission Instruction All applications must be submitted as ONE single-spaced PDF document containing the required sections in the order listed below. No additional attachments will be accepted. Applications that do not meet formatting guidelines, including page limits, font size, or section structure, will not be reviewed. Submission Deadline: July 15, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET Format Requirements: Font: 12-point, non-condensed Margins: At least 1 inch on all sides How to Apply: Submit the PDF application and contact information in the form below . Optional: Upload a cover letter (separate from the PDF application) if requesting specific reviewers. If you would like additional confirmation that your application was received, please contact Research Chair Angela Medina . Application Components & Page Limits 1. Title Page This page should include the title of the proposed study as well as of the name(s) of the investigator(s), their role in study, and information about their institution (i.e., university, department, city, state). 2. Abstract (Limit: 1 Page) Provide a concise summary of the study, including: Study focus and objectives Research methodology Long-term impact Relevance to the NSA’s mission in Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education (CASE) 3. Research Plan (Limit: 8 Pages) Specific Aims & Significance Overview of existing literature and current gaps Study objectives and expected contributions to stuttering research Impact on Community, Advocacy, Support, and Education Design & Methodology Study design and justification Participant recruitment, data collection, analysis methods, and reliability measures Pilot data (if applicable) Facilities & Resources Description of institutional resources, research facilities, and collaborations 4. References & Appendix (Limit: 6 Pages) References section Appendix (Permitted Content Only): Blank data collection tools (e.g., interview guides, surveys, scoring sheets) No additional research content beyond blank forms 5. Management Plan (Limit: 2 Pages) Study timeline and major milestones Research dissemination and reporting plans Project start date: November 2026 6. Itemized Budget (Limit: 2 Pages) Detailed budget justification for all requested funding Institutional overhead and indirect costs are not permitted 7. Investigator Biographical Sketch (Limit: 5 Pages) NIH-style biographical sketch (template available on the NIH website) 8. Human Subjects (If IRB Approval is Pending) (Limit: 3 Pages) For studies awaiting IRB approval, include: Participant population details (age, gender, ethnic background, etc.) Data sources (specimens, records, etc.) Recruitment plans and consent procedures Risk assessment and mitigation strategies Justification of participant risks vs. anticipated benefits If IRB approval has already been obtained, include: IRB approval letter Study consent forms Additional Documents (Optional) Cover Letter: Applicants may request specific reviewers be included or excluded. Justification must be provided, but requests are not guaranteed. Case Grant Application Sorry, but this form is now closed. CASE Grant Application Contact Information Investigator Information * First name * Last name * Email Address * Phone Upload your cover letter (optional) Upload File Upload Application * Title of Research Proposal * Upload your application here Upload File SUBMIT Advancing Stuttering Research—One Study at a Time.

Gain confidence with our practice interview program for people who stutter. Build skills for professional success. Job interviews can feel overwhelming, especially when you stutter. But you don’t have to face that stress alone. The NSA offers free virtual practice interviews designed specifically to help you feel more prepared and confident for your next interview. These sessions give you a safe space to practice disclosing your stutter, communicating with self-assurance, responding to any negative comments, and refining your preparation strategies. It’s all about helping you approach your interviews with the tools and confidence you need to succeed. We realize that part of the interview process can include last-minute scheduling. Please note that this is intended for general interview practice as it can be difficult to schedule a meeting on short notice. The sooner you can notify us, the better! Suyash J. “I have landed a job as a software development engineer with Amazon. I stuttered in all of my interviews and self-disclosed in every single one of them. The practice job interview session I did gave me extra confidence during all my interview with Amazon.” Request A Practice Interview First name* Last name* Email* What country do you live in?* City* State* What time zone are you in?* What kinds of jobs are you applying for?* Are you preparing for a real interview? If so, when is it scheduled?* What would you most like to gain from this practice interview?* What is your preferred availability? (select all that apply) Weekday - morning Weekday - afternoon Weekday - early evening Weekend - morning Weekend - afternoon Weekend - early evening If you have a resume, please upload it. Upload File What would you like us to know about you before we meet?* SUBMIT Suggested Resources 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. Stuttering Put Simply: Your Stuttering Analogy in the Workplace This blog explores simple, relatable analogies that help people who stutter explain their communication in the workplace, challenge common myths, and encourage understanding, empathy, and stronger collaboration among colleagues and employers.

Learn how Kunal Mahajan,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. VP – Middle Market Leveraged Finance Kunal Mahajan Briefly describe your daily job duties. I work in the Middle Market Leveraged Finance group which consists of providing financing to private equity companies to finance their acquisitions. My primary duties consist of managing all aspects of the deal process which includes researching and conducting due diligence on different companies across different industries, communicating with clients, and presenting in front of credit committees to get a deal approved. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. Presentations are the most challenging aspect of my job as a person who stutters. As the lead underwriter on a transaction, I am responsible for presenting in various committee meetings and am expected to be the expert on a transaction to get the deal approved. That pressure makes me feel that I have to give the perfect presentation and I become very anxious that my stutter will prevent me from doing so. How supported at work do you feel by your co-workers, supervisor(s) and the company itself? SMBC and my co-workers have supported me completely throughout my entire tenure with the firm. When I expressed my concerns to my managers that I was afraid I would be letting them down by stuttering during my presentations and when talking to clients, they assured me that they do not care whether I stutter or not. They said they are just focused on ensuring I am prepared for the presentations and are only concerned about what I have to say. When I told them how important becoming an effective communicator was to me, they supported me in my pursuit of programs such as Toastmasters, the Dale Carnegie Leadership Program, and getting me a private public speaking coach to work with on a one-on-one basis to improve my communication and presentation skills. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? No, I never did. However, I wish I did because my bosses thought I was just very nervous during my interview because they did not realize that I had a stuttering disability. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. Being a person who stutters and being open and authentic with my team about it has brought us closer together. They have been able to see how trusting I am of them and it has created an environment within our team where we all can be open and honest with each other and help support each other. My stutter has also made me become an employee who is very focused on helping others. Having gone through so much hardship with my stutter and having had many people who have been compassionate and supported me, that has made me want to do good for others. I am very focused on mentoring people within my team to help them grow and am involved in running initiatives at the firm for helping other people with disabilities get the support they need in the work place. What is your proudest moment at your current company? Hosting a Mock Interview Event for People Who Stutter in January of 2019 at our offices in NYC was my proudest moment at SMBC. We had 30 people who stutter from across the country come to the event to work on their interview skills. Members of the SMBC senior management team served as mock interviewers and provided interviewees feedback. I was proud that I was able to help bring together a life changing day for everyone in the room and that I work for an institution that is so accepting to people of disabilities.