ASA NYC Chapter Members Celebrate 90 Years

The New York City Chapter of the American Statistical Association hosted its 90th anniversary gathering at the Sahara Turkish Restaurant on December 12, 2025. The room was filled with longtime and current ASA members from various sectors, including academia and industry. 

During the celebration, 15 members and two visitors—ASA Executive Director Ron Wasserstein and ASA Director of Development Amanda Malloy—mingled with fellow statisticians and data scientists, shared stories, and caught up on each other’s latest projects and endeavors. 

As members made their way to the dining area, a tent decorated with colorful pillows—fitting for the ASA—attendees were able to take in the elegant décor and backdrop of the Empire State Building nearby.  

While everyone was sitting down, Wasserstein recollected the chapter’s history, emphasizing the importance of statistics and data science in shaping policy and decision-making and highlighting the impact statisticians can have on society. 

The evening also featured a tribute to the chapter’s past executive committee members and Jose Ma. Alvir, who served as the chapter president and editor of the Biopharmaceutical Section’s Biopharmaceutical Report. As the night wore on, attendees had the opportunity to connect with students and make new friends within the chapter, discussing the latest statistical trends, artificial intelligence, and interests and hobbies.  

The highlight of the evening was a white elephant gift exchange using probabilistic skills. Sought-after items included puzzles, tea, mugs, ASA memorabilia, and T-shirts. Wasserstein offered to join the chapter at its 100th anniversary, a decade from now.  

It was a celebration of not only the ASA NYC Chapter’s milestone anniversary but also the power of community, collaboration, and statistics.