Michael Thomas, Therri Usher, Jo Hardin, and Brittney Bailey
Participants of StatFest 2023 gather at SAS.
The ASA Committee on Minorities in Statistics will hold StatFest 2024 September 21 at Columbia University in New York City.
Bringing together students and professionals, StatFest is a free, one-day conference designed to encourage Black, Indigenous, and other undergraduate students of color to pursue graduate studies and careers in statistics and data science.
StatFest is an ongoing initiative of the American Statistical Association through its Committee on Minorities in Statistics. The committee seeks to foster participation in statistics and data science by historically underrepresented minorities. It focuses much of its effort on two key programs: StatFest, a pathway program, and the Diversity Mentoring Program, an early-career success program.
This year’s program will kick off with a keynote address from a statistician or data scientist who will share insights from their career pathway. Additionally, professionals in data science and statistics with varying careers across the academic, government, industry, and nonprofit sectors will share their experiences during a panel discussion. Two special sessions will provide information about and advice for finding, applying to, and weighing selection factors for both graduate schools and summer research or internship programs.
A particular highlight of the conference is a closed, student-only discussion with current graduate students, who candidly share their experiences and provide tips for successfully navigating a graduate program. In a concurrent session, professionals will discuss how to continue promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility in statistics and data science.
Throughout the day, participants will have the opportunity to connect with each other, build their networks, and interact with the exhibitors in attendance. Past exhibitors have included representatives from graduate programs, summer research and internship programs, and employers. Students will also have the opportunity to share their work or research experience in a poster session.
Limited travel awards are available for undergraduate students with travel originating at least 120 miles from New York City. To be considered, students must complete the student travel award application by June 1.
StatFest is made possible through the financial support of the ASA, the ASA BIPOC fund, and several academic and industrial sponsors. If your organization is interested in supporting the event, please contact Amanda Malloy and Therri Usher for more information. Questions about StatFest 2024 can be directed to any or all members of the StatFest 2024 leadership team: Therri Usher, Anarina Murillo, and Brittney Bailey.
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