Just Listen: A Night of Voice, Courage, and Community for AIS 19th Gala

"Just Listen": A Night of Voice, Courage, and Community for AIS 19th Gala

The rain cleared just in time for a warm, golden evening on the Upper East Side. At 583 Park Avenue, the American Institute for Stuttering welcomed guests to its 19th Annual Gala, a celebration of voice, advocacy, and the strength that comes from simply being heard. Hosted by actor and producer Emily Blunt, the evening honored Citadel’s Chief Legal Officer Shawn Fagan and former NBA forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist—two leaders who have used their own stories to inspire others.

It was impressive to witness the level of impact this organization has. The strength of the community in the room was undeniable, and everyone from honorees to first-time guests was open, kind, and fully present. This was not just a formal gathering. It was a room full of people who understood why this work matters and showed up with real warmth..

As someone with a family member who stutters, I was especially moved by how clearly this organization focuses on education, empowerment, and emotional support. This was more than a gala. It was a masterclass in what it means to see and support someone fully.

Gracious Host & Impactful Speakers

Emily Blunt was everything you would want in a host. Graceful, present, and genuinely invested. Dressed in an elegant red gown with pleats and floral accents, she carried the evening with ease and purpose. Her focus was entirely on the cause. She used her spotlight to elevate the organization and made every guest in the room feel seen and at ease..

Two young speakers, one under ten and one twelve, took the stage and delivered remarks with calm confidence. Their presence alone spoke volumes. These were not performances. They were real expressions of courage, and the room responded with absolute respect.

AIS does not approach stuttering as something to fix. It creates space for people to speak freely and live fully. That philosophy came through in every moment. The kids made it real.

Honorees Shawn Fagan, Chief Legal Officer at Citadel, and former NBA forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist shared their personal stories with clarity and conviction. They reminded everyone that strength in leadership does not come from flawless speech. It comes from showing up fully.

Guests included NFL player Joshua Ezeudu of the New York Giants, Survivor’s Mitch Guerra, AIS Executive Director Dr. Heather Grossman, and a passionate group of board members, families, and longtime supporters. I sat next to one board member who told me how a senior leader at his firm had once spoken openly about his own stutter. That moment changed everything for him. It gave him the confidence to lead without hiding. AIS is creating those moments every day.

Leaders, Luminaries, and a Room Full of Heart

The setting at 583 Park Avenue was elegant and warm. Violinists played familiar pop songs with a classical twist, setting a tone that felt cinematic and thoughtful. The atmosphere was elevated but never stiff.

What stood out most was how personal the room felt. Conversations flowed easily. People listened with intention. No one was there to be seen. They were there because they understood the mission. The pacing was tight, the program was focused, and the energy stayed rooted in sincerity.

In Close

The theme of the night was "Just Listen", and that is exactly what everyone did. No one needed to be polished. No one had to perform. They just had to show up, speak honestly, and be seen. This gala was a reminder that when you stop trying to fix someone and simply listen, everything shifts. On this summer night, AIS made sure every voice was accepted.

The evening also included the debut of a short PSA-style film featuring voices from across the AIS community. It was moving, understated, and a strong visual reflection of the night’s message. Looking ahead, Emily Blunt is set to be featured in the next PSA, continuing her role not just as host, but as a consistent and visible advocate for this cause.

About AIS

The American Institute for Stuttering is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1998. It provides specialized, evidence-based speech therapy for people of all ages who stutter. With offices in New York City and teletherapy services nationwide, AIS offers individualized treatment plans, workshops, and ongoing community support. Scholarships are available to ensure therapy remains accessible regardless of financial need.

What sets AIS apart is its holistic approach. Therapy at AIS addresses not only the physical mechanics of speech, but also the emotional and psychological blocks that often accompany stuttering. The goal is not perfect fluency. The goal is to speak freely, confidently, and authentically.

Over the years, AIS has garnered the support of notable advocates and past gala hosts including Emily Blunt, Ed Sheeran, and Bruce Willis—each helping to amplify the message that every voice deserves to be heard and accepted.