My ASA story is centered on community. Early on, the sense of community enriched my teaching because there were so many amazing educational resources. When I used the lesson plans made available through STatistics Education Web (STEW) in my course for undergraduates who were preparing to teach both elementary and middle school, I felt part of a network of colleagues. In 2015, I joined the ASA staff and found friendships, professional growth, and an opportunity to connect with others who shared my passions.
One of my first experiences as a member of the ASA staff was a lunch with then ASA President David Morganstein. Although my colleagues had been welcoming, I was anxious about being the “newbie”—a feeling that was both disconcerting and unfamiliar since I had been at my previous institutions for 24 years. During that lunch, David shared his presidential focus on mentoring. He talked with such passion about his goals to support members of the ASA, regardless of their career stage, which made me both less anxious and excited for the opportunity to be part of something bigger. David’s commitment to mentoring helped make the ASA Mentoring Award a reality. I’m grateful to David for making mentoring a part of my ASA story.
Recently, podcasting has become part of my ASA story. As an avid podcast listener, it was a real thrill to join the ranks of those hosting a podcast. More importantly, it is wonderful to have another project that allows a collaboration with Ron Wasserstein. Ron is a big part of my story.
But Practical Significance was not my first ASA connection to podcasting. Because of former ASA President Barry Nussbaum’s focus on the importance of communication and outreach, I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate with John Bailer and his talented Miami University journalism colleagues on Stats+Stories. I’m looking forward to continuing to grow both podcasts!
Of course, data—or, more specifically, data challenges—are part of my ASA story. Each spring, there are 30+ ASA DataFest events. I’m grateful to be able to help Rob Gould, Mine Çetinkaya-Rundel, and so many other amazing volunteers. They inspired me to create the Fall Data Challenge, which is successful in large part because Wendy Martinez loves data challenges as much as I do. Working with Wendy on the Fall Data Challenge, JSM Data Expo Challenge, and whatever other challenges we dream up is a big part of my story. If you are asked to be involved in an ASA challenge or competition, say yes—you won’t regret it!
I know conferences play a significant role for many when it comes to their ASA stories. For me, the role played by conferences in my ASA story is shaped by my role as a member of the ASA staff. Conferences are essential for learning about new research and best practices and for building new collaborations. For my ASA story, conferences are the opportunity to appreciate the talent and commitment of my staff colleagues. Describing this as a team effort isn’t just a phrase, it reflects the reality that everyone contributes. I’m grateful my ASA story includes the opportunity to experience ASA conferences from this vantage point.
I conclude this part of my ASA story where it began, by recognizing the role of community. I am grateful my ASA story affords me the opportunity to connect with colleagues who share my interests and commitment. These colleagues support my personal and professional journeys and help make the unexpected a reality. As I continue my ASA story, I am excited to build, learn, and give back alongside such an inspiring group of colleagues.
Leave a Reply