It is with grief and sadness that we share the passing of our friend Sander Flaum. Sander was one of AIS’ true champions. It’s hard to quantify the numerous ways he’s impacted the stuttering community, and specifically here at The American Institute for Stuttering.
He served as Chairman of our Board of Directors from 2010-2014 and has always been a tireless supporter of our mission. In 2009, he created the Rose Flaum Scholarship fund in honor of his mother, which provided financial support so that college students and young professionals could gain access to speech therapy. In 2017, he dedicated the Clinic Great Room in our New York City Office in memory of his late wife, Mechele Flaum.
Sander was a noted mentor, author, and thought leader. He published many books and journal columns on topics related to leadership and career growth, including, "The 100-Mile Walk: A Father and Son on a Quest to Find the Essence of Leadership," and "Big Shoes: How Successful Leaders Grow into New Roles." In 2021, published a book on another topic near and dear to his heart - "The Stutter Steps: Proven Pathways to Speaking Confidently and Living Courageously." Sander believed that when you face an obstacle, that you should address it with purpose and diligence. He held the same philosophy related to stuttering. His book provided information and guidance on the latest therapy approaches, as well as examples of how successful individuals have learned to use their stuttering as a source of strength.
We’ll miss your jovial presence and words of encouragement, Sander.
Cheers to a life well-lived.
