Meet Chris Monello, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Chris Monello WS@W Committee 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.

Join the Baltimore - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Baltimore FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS MID-ATLANTIC REGION Official NSA Chapter - Maryland State Welcome to the NSA Baltimore 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? Kennedy Krieger Institute Outpatient Center Conference Room 202 801 North Broadway Baltimore, MD 21205 When? Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM EST. Please RSVP via this link: https://eventscalendar.kennedykrieger.org/event/national-stuttering-association-baltimore-chapter-meeting Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Kate Smidl Chapter Leader Get in touch! smidl@kennedykrieger.org (513) 582-6947 - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

< Back Previous Linda Gioscia Presenter “Miss Linda” Twiss Gioscia is the mother of National Stuttering Association (NSA) member Ethan. Her family has been attending both the 1-Day and Annual Conferences for 7 years! She owns the Performance Dance Center in Weymouth, Massachusetts, which has been teaching children ages 3 and up dance for 28 years. She is a member of the Dance Teachers’ Club of Boston and past membership examiner. She is also a member, past president, and secretary of the Greater Brockton Dance Teachers’ Association. Miss Linda takes classes to stay current in the dance profession and keeps up with all the dance journals, books, and periodicals. Next

Meet Trevor Moran, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Trevor Moran Young Adults Committee Trevor Moran is a senior at Michigan State University studying Neuroscience with a minor in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. He is passionate about deepening his understanding of stuttering and will be pursuing a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology. After moving from his hometown of Brimley, MI, Trevor first joined the NSA in 2023 through the Lansing, MI chapter and has been involved ever since. Outside of academics, he enjoys running, cycling, and reading.

< 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

< Back Previous Sarah Sacco Presenter Sarah Sacco, MS, CCC-SLP, is a doctoral student under the mentorship of Dr. John Tetnowski at Oklahoma State University, where she specializes in stuttering research, advocacy, and community outreach. This is her first Annual Conference. Next

Join the Metro Detroit - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Metro Detroit - Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL NORTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Michigan State Welcome to the NSA Metro Detroit 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? Lakes Speech & Language Pathology 8906 Commerce Road Suite 1 Commerce Twp, MI 48382 When? Meetings are held every other month, on the 3rd Wednesday at 6:00 PM. Our first meeting is November 18th! Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Sarah Waldie Chapter Leader Get in touch! metrodetroit.family@westutter.org 248-860-1555 - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

Join the Austin - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Austin ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS CENTRAL SOUTH REGION Official NSA Chapter - Texas State Welcome to the NSA Austin 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? Arthur M. Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research – 2504 B Whitis Avenue Room: CMB 3.102 (3rd Floor) Austin, TX 78712 When? Meetings are held on the 1st Tuesday of each month (except for December) from 7:00 – 8:30PM Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Sam Antonio, Will Dalthrop & Rahul Ramaswami Chapter Leaders Get in touch! hello@westutteraustin.org 956-533-2399 westutteraustin.org Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

Join the Hayward - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Hayward ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter- California State Welcome to the NSA Hayward 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? Cal State University East Bay (Music Building) 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward CA 94542 Music Building, Rm 1592 When? Meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 6:30 PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Zoi Gkalitsiou Chapter Leader Get in touch! zoi.gkalitsiou@csueastbay.edu - - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

< Back From Uncertainty to Mock Interviews: Chris Monello-Johnson’s Stuttering Journey If you’ve spent any length of time in the NSA community, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Chris Monello-Johnson, or at least heard his name. Maybe you’ve even done a mock interview with him and walked away with a little more confidence than you came in with. Chris has been part of the NSA world for a decade now, long enough to remember life before he joined and wise enough to be grateful he did. After college, Chris found himself wrestling with confidence, especially when it came to job interviews and showing up authentically. He wasn’t sure how his stutter fit into the “real world” version of success. That’s when his speech-language pathologist in NYC stepped in with a pivotal invite: “Come to a chapter meeting.” That meeting changed everything. “I’ve accepted my stutter, no longer hide it, and have found an incredibly supportive community,” Chris says. In the years since, he’s become an open stutterer and mentor to others on similar paths. One of his favorite ways to give back is helping other people who stutter crush those nerve-wracking job interviews. “Mock interviews are my favorite part,” he says. “I love helping people achieve their career goals.” His advice to anyone new to the NSA? “Meet as many people as you can — everyone is welcoming and supportive.” But don’t let all that career talk fool you, Chris knows how to keep things fun, too. He’s got two dogs, a soft spot for peanut butter ice cream, and an encyclopedic knowledge of Real Housewives of NYC. He’s also no stranger to a spotlight: he’s auditioned for American Idol and America’s Got Talent, and his go-to karaoke jam is Bon Jovi’s Living on a Prayer. As for his dream getaway? Bali’s calling. We’re not saying NSA should plan an Annual Conference there, but… we wouldn’t be mad about it. Chris Monello-Johnson reminds us that stuttering doesn’t hold you back from showing up, speaking out, or singing in front of a crowd. It’s just one part of your story. Previous Next

Learn how Jaymie Horak,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Human Resources Analyst Jaymie Horak Briefly describe your daily job duties. My primary responsibility is to assist with administering our health and wellness benefits to our 1,300 employees. This looks like phone calls, checking emails, building and running reports, leading new hire orientations, meetings with health and wellness carriers, and training co-workers. I am also assigned our largest recruitment for an operations position, so I review those applications and onboard new employees. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The moments of misunderstanding. I answer the phone, stutter on my name, and the other person awkwardly laughs or asks me if I forgot my name. They’re minor infractions compared to the way my stutter used to limit me but staying positive in those moments is certainly a challenge. It is also difficult when I am learning something new, or doing something I haven’t done before, because I get nervous that my stuttering will make it seem like I lack confidence or knowledge. How supported at work do you feel by your co-workers, supervisor(s) and the company itself? I feel very supported. I was very lucky to have an incredible first supervisor when I was in Payroll, and when I mentioned my stuttering to her, she told me that she supported me and that if I ever needed her help, she’d take care of anyone who was rude to me. She enabled me to sit at the front desk, and answer telephone calls regularly. Before this experience, I was too terrified to answer the phone. I no longer experience fear picking up the ringing phone at work. (A true miracle.) My supervisors since have also made it clear that they are impressed with my work ethic and intelligence, and that they would stand behind me if anyone used my stuttering to try to tease me. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I think stuttering helps people actually feel more comfortable around me. Perhaps not in the initial moment, but once they realize what is going on. There is a vulnerability that exists that makes the other person realize they don’t need to be perfect when they communicate with me. Working in HR has the ability to seem very intimidating, especially when I am recruiting new hires for their first job. But my stutter seems to give them (a potentially false) sense of comfortability and security, which I think is helpful. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Disclose, disclose, disclose. When you are able to disclose your stutter with confidence, the other person has no choice (unless they’re a huge jerk) to accept your stutter and realize it has nothing to do with your intelligence, proficiency, or confidence. The more we are comfortable with our own stuttering, the more others will be. People can catch onto our emotions and internal stress. They can also catch onto our confidence and peace of mind.

Apply for the NSA Graduate Student Research Award. A $5,000 grant supporting graduate research in stuttering. Deadline March 17, 2026. $5,000 AWARD NSA Graduate Student Research Award Supporting the Next Generation of Stuttering Research The National Stuttering Association is proud to offer the Graduate Student Research Award, a $5,000 funding opportunity for graduate students conducting impactful research on stuttering. Formerly known as the NSA Research Fund Award, this grant has been awarded annually since 2022 through the generosity of the NSA community. The award is presented in loving memory of Diane Games, honoring her legacy and lasting contributions to speech-language pathology and stuttering research. Who Can Apply? We welcome proposals from graduate students whose work supports the NSA's mission to advance understanding, support, and treatment related to stuttering. To be eligible: The project must focus specifically on stuttering research The principal investigator must be a graduate student in good academic standing The principal investigator must be affiliated with a U.S.-based nonprofit or public or government institution The NSA cannot award funding directly to individuals IRB approval must be submitted within 45 days of award notification Applications for non-research activities, including curriculum development, professional development, or capital projects, will not be considered Award Details We welcome proposals from graduate students whose work supports the NSA's mission to advance understanding, support, and treatment related to stuttering. Funding amount: Up to $5,000 Project timeline: Must be completed within two years Indirect costs: Not permitted One active award per student: Graduate students may hold only one active NSA research grant at a time New research only: This award may not be used to extend a project that already has external funding Evaluation Criteria Applications will be reviewed based on: Significance and contribution Contribution to stuttering research Innovation and originality Novel approaches in the field Alignment with NSA's mission Relevance to the stuttering community Methodological rigor and feasibility Research design quality Investigator potential Researcher qualifications Institutional resources and support Available facilities and environment Strength and clarity of the proposed budget Budget justification Key Dates APPLICATIONS OPEN February 17, 2027 SUBMISSION DEADLINE March 17, 2027 AWARD NOTICIFATION May 2027 How to Apply Applicants must submit a single-spaced PDF with the following materials in this order: 1. Abstract Summary of objectives, methods, and alignment with the NSA mission 2. Research Plan Specific aims, significance, methodology, participants, data collection, analysis, and available resources 3. References and Appendix May include surveys, interview guides, or other research tools 4. Management Plan Timeline, deliverables, and dissemination plan 5. Itemized Budget Detailed budget with justification 6. Biographical Sketch NIH-style sketch 7. Human Subjects Section Required if IRB approval has not yet been finalized and should include participant, consent, risk, and safeguard information Additional Required Documents Unofficial transcripts showing current enrollment IRB approval, if already available Optional cover letter, including any reviewer inclusion or exclusion requests with justification Incomplete or incorrectly formatted applications will not be reviewed. Ready to Apply? Apply for Graduate Award View Past Award Recipients Questions? For questions about the application or review process, please contact the NSA Research Committee. Contact NSA Research Committee Empowering the future of stuttering research, one graduate researcher at a time.