Successful Launch of STARS Research & Education Conference
Celebrating Stuttering Awareness: Bo Jackson Shares His Journey
STARS (Stuttering Treatment and Research Society) proudly reports the successful conclusion of its inaugural Research & Education Conference, designed specifically for medical professionals. This landmark event gathered experts and enthusiastic learners to delve into the complexities of stuttering and enhance the quality of care provided to those affected.
Purpose of the Conference
Sponsored jointly by the prestigious Saint Louis University School of Medicine, this full-day symposium was a historic first dedicated entirely to Continuing Medical Education in stuttering tailored for healthcare professionals. This unique gathering invited physicians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and nurses to explore the latest discoveries rooted in neuroscience and interdisciplinary treatment strategies.
President's Vision
Gerald A. Maguire, MD, President and Founder of STARS, explained the rationale behind the organization's inception, stating, "Our aim is to address stuttering at its core through scientifically rigorous methods and collaborative care pathways. The generous support we have received allows us to turn our vision into practical progress. The turnout at this conference exemplifies our commitment to making a difference."
Inspirational Keynote Address
The event and all its sessions culminated in an inspiring keynote speech delivered by Bo Jackson, a renowned athlete and individual who stutters. His personal anecdotes about resilience resonated with attendees and highlighted the importance of continued research and support for the stuttering community.
Jackson shared, "Speaking to you all today is far less daunting than sitting quietly on the sidelines. I see individuals here who resonate with my experiences. Should the efforts of STARS lead to breakthroughs in this area, I'll be alongside you every step of the way in the journey towards a potential cure."
Impactful Conference Highlights
The conference brought together around sixty attendees during the day, and close to one hundred participated in the celebratory evening activities. Healthcare professionals who attended earned Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits for their involvement, fostering continuous professional development.
Significant Presentations
The day was rich with informative presentations and panel discussions. Opening Keynote was delivered by Gerald A. Maguire, MD, along with insightful talks including:
- A Neurobiological Understanding of Stuttering — Shahriar SheikhBahaei, PhD
- The Emerging Role of Technology in Stuttering Assessment — Gonçalo Leal
- Stuttering Genetic Co-Morbidities — Shelly Jo Kraft, PhD
- New Discoveries in the Genetics of Stuttering — Dillon Pruett, PhD
- The Physician's Role in Stuttering Diagnosis and Treatment — Yoshikazu Kikuchi, MD/PhD; Tiago Proença Santos, MD; Kevin Mays, MD; Alberto Acuña, MD
- Future Directions of Stuttering Research/Treatment — Shahriar SheikhBahaei, PhD; Gerald A. Maguire, MD
Bo Jackson's keynote reflections post-conference provided a heartfelt exploration of living with stuttering, making the discussions incredibly relatable and immediate.
Discovering More About STARS
Founded in January 2025 following a transformative philanthropic donation, STARS represents a groundbreaking initiative focused on discovering the neurological underpinnings of stuttering. With the goal of enhancing evidence-based treatments and increasing public understanding, STARS is dedicated to leading studies that will significantly benefit those impacted by stuttering. Under the guidance of Dr. Gerald A. Maguire, a globally recognized authority in the field, this organization aims to create pathways for innovative research and improved patient care.
The governance of STARS consists of distinguished professionals, many of whom are also individuals who have experienced the challenges of stuttering firsthand, reflecting a commitment both to professional excellence and personal understanding.
Contact Information
For more information or inquiries, please reach out to Sydney Donovan at 407.462.6082.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of STARS?
STARS focuses on understanding the neurological causes of stuttering and developing advanced treatment methods.
Who attended the conference?
The conference attracted healthcare professionals including physicians, psychologists, and speech-language pathologists.
What was Bo Jackson's contribution to the conference?
Bo Jackson delivered a powerful keynote speech sharing his personal experiences with stuttering, emphasizing resilience and advocacy.
What kind of credits did participants receive?
Attendees earned Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits for their engagement in the sessions.
What are STARS' goals moving forward?
STARS aims to expand interdisciplinary research, improve treatment access, and enhance public awareness of stuttering challenges.
