For Participants
As a participant, you will be paired with a mentor who can offer support, encouragement, and practical career guidance. This program is designed for adults who stutter who want to grow professionally while building confidence, connection, and community.
Career guidance and coaching
Whether you're just starting out, looking to advance, or considering a change, mentors provide tailored support to help you navigate your next steps.
Support for workplace challenges
Gain strategies for handling tough conversations, self-advocacy, and navigating bias or misconceptions around stuttering.
Confidence and communication support
Build confidence as a communicator in interviews, meetings, and professional networking situations.
Professional references and feedback
Mentors can serve as references and help strengthen job applications with informed, supportive endorsements.
Networking opportunities
Expand your network through introductions to industry professionals and connections with others in your field.
Peer connection and community
Get exclusive access to a Google group and mentorship website, and connect with other participants in similar fields.
Our Participants
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Rohit Motwani
Hi, I’m Rohit. I currently work as a Proposal Manager in the construction and infrastructure industry in Toronto, Canada. I hold a Master’s degree and have experience supporting complex proposals, business development, and multidisciplinary teams. As a person who stutters, I’m focused on continuing to build my confidence, communication, and leadership skills while growing my career. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, working out, and connecting with people from different backgrounds.
KD Kroner
My name is KD, and I’m a marketing professional and graphic designer who got their foot in the door a bit later in life! After getting my Human Services degree and working in the disabilities services field for a number of years, I decided to change course and go back to school for Graphic Design in 2018. I have since been working professionally in the marketing industry since 2021, channeling both intense creativity and drive. Outside of my professional endeavors, I am a multi-media artist and a local art event organizer! The Twin Cities local communities are so important to me and I love making an impact and meeting new people!
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Beka Shalala
I’m Beka! I work as a pediatric nurse and have been in the industry for a little over a year. Taking care of kids is truly amazing, and I love what I do! I am from northeast Ohio, and I graduated from the University of Akron with my Bachelor’s degree in Nursing in 2025. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking with my dog, traveling overseas, or exploring new cafes!
Julie Farace
Hello, my name is Julie Farace and I live in Maryland. I am 26 years old. I have four years of teaching Spanish to students in Grades K-6. I received my Bachelor's degree in Spanish at Xavier University in Ohio in May 2022 and I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain in 2020 for three months. I graduated Louisiana State University Shreveport in August 2026 with a Master's degree in Education. In the future, I have an interest in working with children, instructional design, or in an art-related field. I am also passionate about supporting individuals with disabilities. Outside of work, I love to draw, paint, play guitar and piano, and spend time with family and friends outdoors.
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Sophia Chen
I graduated from William & Mary with a B.S. in Data Science and I currently work at LMI as a contracted data analyst. I work alongside military clients and provide data analysis and insights to support their work. While I’ve enjoyed developing my technical background, I’m also exploring different career paths and opportunities that allow me to grow outside of my comfort zone. Outside of work, I enjoy art, traveling, working out, and spending time with my cat. I’m naturally curious and enjoy listening to and learning from other people and their experiences. I’m hoping to use this opportunity to find a mentor, connect with others who have had similar experiences with stuttering, and become more comfortable and confident in expressing myself.
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Aidan Truckenbrod
Hi, I'm Aidan! I recently graduated from Quinnipiac University with degrees in Public Relations and Political Science and have built my career around education, community engagement, and event management. I've worked with organizations ranging from local government to arts education and nonprofits, and I enjoy creating opportunities that bring people together and make a positive impact. Outside of work, I'm passionate about history, politics, I love exploring my city, and attending concerts. I'm excited to be part of this mentorship program, connect with others who understand the experience of stuttering, and continue growing both personally and professionally.
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Susanne Hart
Susanne is a jack of all trades, on a mission to refine into something new! With 5 years at Starbucks under her belt (3 of which have been spent as a shift manager), and a fancy black coffee master apron, she has mastered the ins and outs of coffee, de-escalation, and customer service (and retention). While she loves sharing coffee knowledge with her regulars, her true passions are rooted in her degree in Digital Media, with a concentration in visual storytelling. She has used her graphic design training for organizations such as SAY: Stuttering Association for the Young, and SPACE (Stuttering, People, Arts, Community, Education), the latter of which she is a co-founder of. Susanne is a firm believer in the power of stories and their impact on the world, but in the meantime is looking to use her eye for detail, and passion for helping those around her to step out of the corporate grind and into something bigger and better!
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LaShanda Lewis
Shanda is the founder and herbalist behind The Irie Cup, a Caribbean inspired tea and herbal wellness brand she launched in 2020. Under her leadership, the business has grown from an online shop into a multi-channel brand, with products available through direct-to-consumer sales, farmers markets, and wholesale partners.
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Nataly Cespedes
Hi! My name is Nataly, I’m an Industrial Engineer who graduated in 2024 and recently moved to Florida. I currently work in marketing and sales for an e-commerce company. When I’m not working, I enjoy working out, playing sports, and reading. I’m excited to be part of this community and to keep growing, both personally and in my career.
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Russell Weiser
I am CPA with an MBA from Rutgers University. I've worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 25 years with increasing responsibility and primarily work as a Director of Accounting and Finance. I am married with 2 children and live in Hoboken, NJ.
Dean Vergara
I'm a graphic designer with 10 years of experience and I currently work in-house for a labor union, with previous roles in government and nonprofit communications. Supporting the work of activists and organizers has shown me how powerful clear and accessible communication can be. As a person who stutters, I'm hoping to be a better communicator so I can better advocate for myself, my work, and others in the stuttering community. Outside of work, I like to balance screen time with swimming and biking and going to concerts with friends.
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Todd Phillips
I have worked in the electrical field for 8 years and lost my job because the owner decided to shut the business down. Been out of work since October 2025. I've been going to school for audio engineering and started that this year in January. I've been making music for 23 years and would love to do that as a career
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Elliott Notrica
Elliott Notrica is a recent graduate in Biology from Illinois Wesleyan University and the founder of Symbio, a food biotechnology startup developing on-site biorefinery systems for food waste upcycling. He is an Amgen Scholar, a Future Founders Fellow and a TEDx speaker. His research focuses on microbiology and enzymology of filamentous fungi. He lives in central Illinois with his girlfriend and two cats, and is passionate about sustainability and ethical entrepreneurship.
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Ally Kauzlarich
Hi, I’m Ally! I grew up in Michigan and graduated with a degree in French Language, along with an associate’s degree in Psychology. I am currently 27 years old and reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where I work in the mental health field supporting individuals in developing goals and daily living skills. I value creativity, continued learning, and meaningful connection with others. Outside of work, I enjoy coffee culture, participating in CrossFit, and exploring new trails and outdoor adventures.
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Madison Montanus
Hi there! My name is Madison, I’m 30 years old and live in South Florida. I have my Masters Degree in Digital Marketing and currently am an Event Coordinator at a local country club. I love planning events and making sure everything runs smoothly, I plan to become a Director of Events before I'm 40. A little about me is that I love cats, sea turtles, and chickens! When I am not at work I enjoy snorkeling, tanning, shopping, and going to Orlando for Disney/Universal.
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Yen Nguyen
I am a Brandeis University student graduating in December '26. majoring in Business, and I am Pre-Law. I have an interest in civil rights litigation, criminal justice, and animal rights. In my free time, I like to collage with stationery and practice mixed- martial arts. I am looking to connect with more professionals in my field, navigate, and gain confidence with my stutter throughout my career.
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Todd Emge
Todd is a happy father of 2 boys. He specialized in security/risk management while working in the technology field for over 20 years. Hobbies include gaming, hiking, and strength training. The next step is building long-term relationships within the WeStutter program and broader NSA community.
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Martin Velez
Hi, my name is Martin. I’m an Army Infantryman in the California Army and work as a Residential Counselor supporting youth. I earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration and plan to continue my education. As someone who stutters, I’m looking to grow my confidence and communication skills while continuing to develop as a leader. Outside of work, I enjoy fitness, running, martial arts, and spending time with my wife and family.
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Lexi Hewitt
Lexi Hewitt is a certified K-12 school counselor and has a National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certification (NCC). She has been a member of the NSA since 2019 and volunteers as the NSA Southeastern PA Family Chapter Leader, which she started in 2023, as well as the Regional Chapter Coordinator for the Southwest Region. One of her passions is creating content to help the stuttering community grow. She has taught Chapter Leaders how to use Canva, runs the NSA Exton social media pages, and creates content for the NSA!
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Sajad Nikafshar
My name is Sajad. I am a PhD student in bio-based materials, specializing in lignin-based epoxy resin. My research focuses on developing sustainable materials and exploring innovative applications for renewable resources. I am passionate about expanding my expertise in research, innovation, and collaboration to make a meaningful impact in the field. Outside of work, I enjoy learning about new technologies, staying active, and continuously developing new skills.
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Jeevanreddy
I’m Jeevan, a Fraud Subject Matter Expert with leadership experience across Chargeback, Dispute, and strategy initiatives. I bring a sharp eye for fraud patterns and a strategic mindset to protecting the business while keeping the customer experience front and center. I’m now focused on growing into broader leadership roles as well as deeper technical individual contributor roles, where I can build strong teams, sharpen fraud strategy, and help shape business outcomes at scale. Outside of work, you’ll find me outdoors exploring new places or on the badminton court, always up for a good rally.
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Marian Paige Watford
I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Winthrop University in 2024, and I am now a graduate student in the MLA program at the same university with a concentration in Political and Civic Engagement. I have an interest in the legal field as well as advocating for the voiceless and marginalized communities.
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Michael Ventrice
Michael Ventrice is a recent graduate in radio broadcasting and currently works in theater and audio visual tech for 3+ years. In his spare time, he enjoys playing video games, going to conventions, and weightlifting and is looking to become an electronics hobbyist.
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Emad E. Khattab
I am a legal and governance professional with over 25 years of experience in contracts, compliance, and corporate governance. I am currently transitioning into the U.S. job market and working on improving my communication skills, particularly managing stuttering in professional settings. I am seeking mentorship to build confidence, develop my career direction, and connect with professionals in my field.
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Dinvuandidi Berenice Nsaku Kopela
I am a case manager and a college student currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in human services. I recognize the need to strengthen my communication skills so I can express my thoughts more clearly and effectively. At work, I am being trained to become a program lead, and I understand that strong communication will be essential to my success in this role and in my overall career. My goal is to help and empower individuals to achieve the best version of their lives. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading romance novels, and listening to music.
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Adam Weaver
I have an exercise science degree and applied physiology degree from Salisbury University. I have been working in the healthcare and fine dining services for 5 years in total. I had wanted to go into physical therapy school but decided against it after being in the field. I am now trying to break into the medial device sales field.
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Clay Girard
My name is Clay Girard and I'm currently a Master's of Science student in Information Systems, focusing on AI & Data Science. I recently landed an internship in the defense industry, and I'm also in the process of getting my PMP certification. Prior to this, I spent 5 years working for a non-profit in Operations. I find that my stuttering plays a large role in my life, with my confidence fluctuating depending on the season or the workplace. In my free time I go dancing a lot, work out often, and play with my nieces and nephews.
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Bryan Turner
I transitioned out of the Air Force earlier this year after 21 years. I'm now looking for work in project and program management. I've spent most of my career leading teams and keeping complex operations moving under pressure. I'm currently working toward my PMP certification. I've lived with stuttering my whole life — and had to work through it in some pretty demanding situations. I'm joining this program to connect with people who actually get it and to keep growing.
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Asher Brandley
I am Asher Brandley, 28 years old, trying to navigate life with a stutter. I attended Hillsborough Community College in Florida then I transferred to University of South Florida and majored in Health Science with a concentration in Biology and a concentration in communication science and disorders. I recently moved from Tampa to Baltimore, Maryland for a better life. Hopefully, I get a job as a lab assistant here.
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Rachel Brownridge
My name is Rachel, I am a student at the University of Guelph working towards a BSc. in agriculture. In the future, I want to work either in the agricultural sector or in the environmental field. I've never been that good at putting myself out there, so I hope to connect with others and learn strategies to gain communication skills and confidence.
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Steven Lee
Steven is a finance and accounting professional with extensive experience in investment accounting and financial reporting for private equity and real estate investment firms. Over the past several years, he has served in Interim Controller and finance leadership roles supporting various Southern California organizations within Private Equity and Real Estate where he has overseen fund accounting, financial reporting, and audit coordination for multiple investment funds. Earlier in his career, Steven served as CFO of a multi-unit restaurant group that expanded rapidly before being acquired by a private equity firm. He earned his degree from The Ohio State University and enjoys mentoring others who are early in their careers. Outside of work, Steven enjoys following sports, traveling, and staying connected with friends and family.
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William Christopher Schneider
William Schneider is a 24-year-old communications professional living in Chicago, Illinois. He is experienced in content creation, with over 2 years of experience working with social media. He aims to find a career in media, preferably in broadcasting or media production.
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Brenda Galabe
Brenda is a civil engineer with five years of professional experience. A graduate of Arizona State University, she brings a strong technical background and international perspective. She is interested in growing professionally while continuing to build confidence and connection.
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Kristen May
Hi! I'm Kristen, a student at the University of Michigan studying UX Design and Cognitive Science, originally from Traverse City, Michigan. On campus, I contribute to several project teams as a Content Lead and Product Designer, and love the creative and strategic side of that work. I'm very passionate about health informatics and am working to build a career designing digital experiences in healthcare that are accessible and intuitive for everyone, especially those with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. Outside of my studies, I love running and trying out new recipes!
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Travis Ackerman
I'm a 37 year old father of 4, who has experience and some familiarity with the stuttering community, so I'm very active in the stuttering community, both virtual and in person. I have a Bachelor's of Science in Cybersecurity Management and Policy, and am currently pursuing my first few industry certifications in Cybersecurity, as I'm pursuing the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701. Once this is achieved, I am going to pursue additional Cyber opportunities for the company I currently work for, Walmart. Currently, I am an Outbound Team Lead at a Walmart Next Generation (Automated) Fulfillment Center located in Greencastle, Pennsylvania.
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Sarah Schuyler-Gallaway
My name is Sarah Schuyler-Gallaway. I am 48 years old. I am married with a teenage son. I have much education along with professional and personal experience. Though rich with experiences and opportunities being fortunate in respects, there have been twists and turns and bumps along my journey. I would like guidance with becoming more confident speaking even though I stutter and that has partly shaped who I am. I have come a long way and over come much perceiving with years of speech therapy but truly appreciate the resources and support of the NSA.
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Trang Truong
Hi there! My name is Trang, and I recently graduated with my Entry Level Masters in Nursing, in which I now work as a registered nurse at an adult day care. I am also going onto my 5th year teaching fitness. When I teach fitness, I find myself speaking smoothly. When I'm in the healthcare space, all I can do is anticipate my stutter sometimes- I'm looking to build my confidence and find methods that work for communication in the healthcare space.
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Michael Allen Bailey
Michael Allen Bailey is an arts manager based in Elmont, NY. He is a former intern at TT Partners and has experience on Broadway, having worked on shows such as "Merrily We Roll Along" and "The Book of Mormon." Currently, Michael is a Finance Associate at the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) while pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Performing Arts Management at Brooklyn College. He is also recognized as a 2026 Shubert Scholar. Michael is actively working to become more engaged in the stuttering community as he continues to advance his career.
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Isadora Gruber
My name is Isadora Gruber, and I am a Nutrition & Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR), and a current Master of Public Health student at Des Moines University with a concentration in Health Education and Promotion. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Florida State University and have professional experience across community nutrition, clinical support, and public health settings—including work with the Florida Department of Health's WIC program, Lincare as a Medical Nutrition Coordinator, and rehabilitation and eating-disorder facilities. I am passionate about advancing health equity, improving access to preventive care, and creating practical, culturally informed nutrition education. Originally from Brazil and raised in the U.S., I bring a multicultural, bilingual perspective to my work. Outside of academics and entrepreneurship, I enjoy exploring my new home in Tennessee, spending time outdoors, and building meaningful connections within my community.
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Krystle Sahal
Hi, my name is Krystle. I work at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland as a Medical Laboratory Scientist in Transfusion Medicine. I recently went back to school for my bachelors degree, finally finishing in 2024. I recently enrolled in a graduate certificate program to become a specialist in transfusion medicine, which will prepare me to become a leader in my field. On a personal note, I love being outside and being active.
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David Almona
David Almona (preferably Almona) was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria and is now a senior at Centre College studying Economics with a minor in Data Science. He discovered his interest in data analytics and sports analytics after his sophomore year and has since worked on a number of personal and research analytics project. He is currently an intern at the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts. At Centre College, he is a member of the Centre College Track & Field team, competing mainly in the 100m and 200m. He's been a lifelong sports fan, having been exposed mostly to soccer while growing up, and now supports Tottenham Hotspur F.C. in the English Premier League. He enjoys playing table tennis, volleyball, and badminton. After graduation, Almona wants to work in or get a Master's degree in Data Science/Analytics.
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Kyle Parry
My name is Kyle, I am a customer success manager with 3 years of experience and 2 years of recruiting/sales experience. I want to level up my career and be able to lead people and influence business objectives. Outside of work, I love being active in golf and powerlifting.
Expectations & Rules For Participants
Requirements
To join the program as a participant, you must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Reside in North America
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Be a Person Who Stutters (PWS)
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Be willing to take initiative, seek guidance, and remain engaged
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Be able to commit up to at least 1 hour monthly
Rules
All participants are expected to:
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Be professional and courteous in your communication
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Any form of discrimination, harassment, or offensive behavior is strictly prohibited
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Keep all communications within the Google Group public unless you have explicit approval from other members to connect privately
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Restrict private communications to between you and your direct mentees
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Use respectful language that uplifts and encourages
Expectations
As a mentee, we encourage you to:
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Take ownership of your growth—come prepared to meetings with questions or topics to discuss
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Be open to feedback and willing to try new strategies
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Follow through on any goals or action items you and your mentor set together
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Respect your mentor’s time by being punctual, responsive, and consistent
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Communicate proactively to the WS@W committee as well as your mentor if you’re struggling or need to pause the relationship
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Participate in community spaces (Google Group, events, etc.) with curiosity and kindness
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.


