The Virginia General Assembly commends Hollins Communications Research Institute for its innovative research and scientifically based treatment services in the field of stuttering, as the nonprofit institute celebrates its 35th anniversary.

PRESS RELEASE:

The Virginia General Assembly unanimously passed a house joint resolution during the 2007 session commending Roanoke-based Hollins Communications Research Institute (HCRI) for its pioneering research and therapy in the field of stuttering.

The resolution was delivered to Executive Director Dr. Ronald Webster over the weekend. It arrived in time to share with clients from across the country who had come to Roanoke to attend the 34^th annual HCRI reunion and learn about developments in stuttering therapy.

Founded in 1972 by Webster, HCRI has grown into a world-leading center for the investigation and treatment of stuttering, which affects 64 million people globally. The not-for-profit institute, which is in its 35th year,  is unique from other stuttering centers in that work focuses on developing scientifically based treatment methods and learning technologies, in addition to administering therapy programs.

Nearly 6,000 from the United States and 23 other countries have been treated for stuttering at HCRI’s facility. Therapy program graduates include: John Stossel, co-anchor of ABC 20/20; Arthur Blank, co-founder of Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons; Annie Glenn, wife of Senator and astronaut John Glenn; and Lester Hayes of the Oakland Raiders.

Both Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Hospital are now sending patients to the HCRI for stuttering treatment.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by the Virginia General Assembly for our continuing work in the field of stuttering,” Webster said.  “Stuttering is a complex physical problem that is deeply misunderstood by people who do not have it.  Those who stutter have limitations beyond comprehension. We are dedicated to finding new and innovative ways to help people speak fluently, which will transform lives and create opportunities never before possible.”

HCRI is in the process of expanding its clinical and research program, and has recently developed a powerful computer program that improves speech measurement for enhancing and sustaining treatment results. HCRI specialists are also working in cooperation with the National Institutes of Health on the genetic analysis of stuttering.

“New projects on previously unrecognized links between speech and hearing are now underway. The studies are already yielding exciting results.  This work may lead us to discover the cause of stuttering – and find a cure during our lifetime.” Webster said.

RESOLUTION:
Virginia General Assembly
House Join Resolution No. 871
Commending Hollins Communications Research Institute

WHEREAS, the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., in Roanoke is a nonprofit educational and research organization dedicated to the treatment of stuttering; and

WHEREAS, the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., founded by Dr. Ronald L. Webster in 1972, scientifically demonstrates the highest success rate in the treatment of stuttering when compared with similar speech therapy programs anywhere in the world; and

WHEREAS, the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., has offered its therapeutic services to more than 5,400 persons, enabling them to communicate fluently with loved ones, colleagues, and people in their everyday life; and

WHEREAS, the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., has attracted clients from throughout the United States and 23 foreign countries to its treatment facility in Southwest Virginia and include students, the United States military, corporate executives, professional athletes, Hollywood entertainers, and local and national news broadcasters; and

WHEREAS, the dedicated staff of the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., commit thousands of hours each year to researching the causes of stuttering and continually improving the treatment programs they provide their clients; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly commend the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., on its outstanding services and commitment to helping those unable to speak fluently; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Hollins Communications Research Institute, Inc., as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration for its extraordinary program and remarkable success.