Daniell Toth, JSM 2026 Program Chair
As thousands prepare to gather for JSM 2025, the American Statistical Association and its partners are already looking ahead to the next annual gathering of statisticians from around the world. The 2026 Joint Statistical Meetings will take place in Boston, Massachusetts, from August 1–6.
Boston is one of the most historical and intellectually rich cities in the United States. With world-renowned universities, cutting-edge technology hubs, and a deep-rooted legacy in American history, it is a perfect setting to host the largest statistical meeting in the world. Attendees will be able to explore iconic landmarks such as the Freedom Trail, Boston Common, the Old State House, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace, as well as enjoy the city’s cultural and culinary scene.
The theme for JSM 2026, selected by ASA President-Elect Jeri Mulrow, is “Communities in Action: Advancing Society.” This theme highlights the vital role statistical communities play in confronting societal challenges, fostering innovation, and driving equitable progress through collaboration across disciplines and sectors. It celebrates the tangible, real-world impact statisticians, data scientists, and methodologists can have when working together in service to society.
With this spirit in mind, the JSM 2026 program committee invites proposals for invited sessions.
Invited Paper and Panel Sessions
Invited sessions may be either oral presentations or panel discussions. An invited paper session typically includes two to six speakers and discussants who present significant, cutting-edge work on a unified theme. An invited panel session generally features three to six participants who offer perspectives, debate, and discussion on timely topics of broad interest.
The strongest proposals present exciting and innovative work that will appeal to a wide range of JSM attendees. Sessions that feature a mix of viewpoints, institutions, and methodologies are especially encouraged, as they reflect the diversity and collaborative nature of the statistical community.
To organize a session, do the following:
- Select a topic of general interest.
- Recruit potential speakers and discussants.
- Draft a proposal that includes a brief abstract or rationale, the names and affiliations of participants, and tentative talk titles.
While alignment with the JSM theme is encouraged, it is not required.
The JSM Program Committee enforces the “one speaker, one session” policy, which limits individuals to a single invited talk or panel participation. Be sure to confirm availability with prospective speakers.
Once completed, submit your proposal by September 3, indicating the session type and proposed sponsoring organization. To increase the likelihood of acceptance, reach out to the appropriate ASA section or society representative in advance to request sponsorship. Your representative may select the proposal directly or enter it into a competitive pool for broader program committee review.
Decisions about the invited program will be made by mid-October.
Memorial Sessions
JSM 2026 will also set aside space for five invited memorial sessions. To propose one, do the following:
- Submit the proposal as a standard invited session.
- Select “memorial session” as a sponsor and indicate additional potential section sponsors.
If not selected through a section’s guaranteed allocation or the general invited pool, the session will be considered for one of the five memorial slots. Memorial session decisions will be made later in the fall.
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