Karry Roberts, Detroit Chapter Secretary

Members of the Detroit chapter, from left: Barry DeCicco, Julie Keros, Angela Lin, Heather Johnson, Margaret Mikula, Bob Graban, Andrew Ekstrom, David Corliss, Rob Podolsky, Karry Roberts, Nathan Soderborg, Rob Kushler, Ellen Barnes, Mary Coffey, and Nai-Wei Chen

Members of the Detroit Chapter had a successful second Numbers & Networking social event January 17 as they gathered on a snowy night at an event hosted by chapter president, Rob Podolsky.

Attendance increased by 50 percent over the first Numbers & Networking social event in October 2019. Intentionally choosing a different location, this time in the western Detroit suburbs, a different group of chapter members attended, as well as two interested non-members.

Planning for Numbers & Network events includes a deliberate choice of locations for wider coverage of the chapter’s region. Plans are in the works to continue hosting these events quarterly as an alternative to the traditional chapter meetings with a presentation. The next social will be held in May. [Editor’s Note: Due to COVID-19, dates and formats for meetings, conferences, and workshops may change. Please check event websites often for updates.]

Numbers & Network events allow members to share opportunities such as upcoming seminars and science fair judging. Plus, the casual atmosphere offered members a chance to get to know each other. The chapter provided appetizers, and members purchased their own beverages and menu items.

Podolsky was motivated to initiate the Numbers & Network events when he attended the March 18, 2019, Chapter Mentoring Virtual Workshop sponsored by the ASA Council of Chapters Governing Board. During the workshop, members of the governing board suggested chapters start small with a community outreach event and continue to offer it to let the concept develop.