The department of mathematics and statistics at Mississippi State University hosted the 2025 Annual Conference and Business Meeting of the Alabama-Mississippi Chapter of the American Statistical Association on March 21. The event brought together faculty, students, and professionals from across Alabama and Mississippi for a day of research exchange, professional networking, and celebration of statistical collaboration.
Presiding over the event was Elvan Ceyhan, chapter president and professor at Auburn University. Under his leadership, the program highlighted the chapter’s dedication to scholarly excellence and community-building across institutions.
The conference featured keynote addresses by two leading figures in the field: Ji-Hyun Lee and Peter Song.
Lee, 120th president of the ASA and director of the division of quantitative sciences at the University of Florida Health Cancer Center, delivered the ASA presidential address, titled “Unpacking My Own Questions.” Her talk offered a deeply personal and thought-provoking reflection on her journey through statistical leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. She encouraged attendees to reflect not only on the questions they answer through data, but also on the questions that shape their own identities and careers. Reflecting on her visit, “The 2025 Alabama-Mississippi Chapter meeting was a memorable visit for me,” she said. “The energy and passion from students, early-career members, and faculty reminded me of our field’s bright future.”
Song, professor of biostatistics at the University of Michigan, followed with a forward-looking talk titled “Statistical Approaches to Addressing Data Science Challenges in Epigenetic Aging Research.” He highlighted innovations in modeling biological age using DNA methylation, including the use of convolutional neural networks, conformal prediction, and transfer learning—offering a clear example of how modern statistical tools can help address critical challenges in health research. Reflecting on the experience, Song shared, “I was honored to deliver a keynote speech and have an opportunity to engage with your vibrant community. The regional conferences like the 2025 Alabama-Mississippi ASA Chapter play a vital role in advancing our field in both research and collaboration from the ground up.”
Student engagement was a central theme throughout the conference, particularly during the research presentation competitions. Ata Leonel Fokou Takem Fomadjo, a student at the University of Mississippi and winner of the first-place poster presentation award, shared, “It was my first in-person conference in the US and the first time I presented my work in English. I was nervous before the poster session, but this experience taught me that instead of finding excuses, we should try—always. The most valuable part was bringing the statistical community closer to think about us, the next generation.”
Li Zhou of Auburn University, who earned second place in the oral presentation competition, emphasized the collaborative atmosphere: “The feedback I received from professors and fellow students was very insightful, and learning about other students’ research was also encouraging.”
Faculty attendees echoed the value of the event. Erasmus Tetteh-Bator of Jackson State University reflected on its impact on student development: “The conference offered a unique opportunity for my students to showcase our research, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in public speaking. A particularly proud moment came when my student, Makena Bailey, won a prize for outstanding oral introduction—an initiative introduced by the chapter to recognize strong communication.” He added, “It was a remarkable coincidence when the number one risk factor identified by our machine learning model aligned with Dr. Song’s keynote topic. This event has broadened my network, fostered the exchange of ideas, and significantly enhanced my experience in statistical research.”
The conference was made possible by organizing committee members, especially Qian (Michelle) Zhou, Jialin (JZ) Zhang, and Elizabeth Standley, who helped coordinate the program and logistics. The student representative for the chapter, Shirli Arndt, also played a key role in supporting local organization efforts. “We extend our gratitude to all participants, presenters, and organizers who contributed to the success of this event,” said Zhang. “The conference provided an excellent opportunity for networking, scholarly exchange, and celebrating advancements in statistical research.”
The day concluded with a student awards ceremony, with Lee and Song presenting certificates and prizes. As a token of appreciation, both keynote speakers received MSU cowbells—a signature gift from the host institution.
The 2025 Alabama-Mississippi Chapter Conference reaffirmed the role of local chapters in advancing the ASA’s mission. From student presentations to keynotes and conversations throughout the day, the event created space for connection, reflection, and growth.
Visit the chapter’s website to learn more about the Alabama-Mississippi Chapter and upcoming events.
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