Amanda Malloy, ASA Director of Development
Each year at the Joint Statistical Meetings, connections are formed that shape careers, open doors, and strengthen the future of our profession. The Diversity Mentoring Program, an initiative of the ASA’s Committee on Minorities in Statistics, plays a central role in this work.
As we prepare for the 2026 JSM in Boston (August 1–6), the DMP continues to bring together statisticians and data scientists from a wide range of backgrounds to foster mentorship, community, and opportunity. Through one-on-one mentoring, small-group discussions, and networking sessions, the program creates an environment in which participants can grow both professionally and personally.
Building Connections and Opening Doors
Last year’s program in Nashville, Tennessee, welcomed 110 participants, including mentors, mentees, speakers, and guests. The impact was immediate and lasting.
“The most valuable part was building genuine connections with mentors that go far beyond superficial hellos … they took time to learn about my goals and helped me set short-term and long-term plans, all while emphasizing that the relationship doesn’t end here. Knowing I have people I can reach out to for guidance long after we leave Nashville is invaluable,” said master’s student Emmanuel Kubuafor from the University of New Mexico.
Others echoed this viewpoint. “It provided me with valuable perspective, encouragement, and a clearer sense of direction as I prepared for the next stage of my academic career,” said David Amakye, a PhD student at the University of Cincinnati.
“Hearing from professionals and seeing the impact of their work reinforced my interest in the field and helped me think more clearly about my own goals,” added Franklina Addae, a master’s student in applied statistics and research methods at the University of Northern Colorado.
These experiences illustrate how the DMP serves as a catalyst for early-career statisticians and data scientists.
Why It Matters
“The biggest impact of the Diversity Mentoring Program is creating a supportive community where individuals can thrive,” says DMP Chair Prince Allotey. “We do this by providing one-on-one mentoring, encouragement, and opportunities for networking and career advancement.”
Participants leave with more than advice; they gain confidence, clarity, and connections that lead to internships, jobs, collaborations, and long-term mentorship relationships.
“I was also able to connect with mentors and peers, which helped build my confidence and made me feel more included in the statistical community,” said Justice Akuoko-Frimpong, a biostatistics PhD candidate at the University of Michigan. “I am still in touch with my assigned mentor, Maricela Cruz, who continues to support my professional growth by answering my questions and connecting me with people in the industry.”
Expanding Opportunity—With Your Help
Demand for the program continues to grow, particularly among students and early-career professionals seeking both mentorship and financial support to attend the program at JSM. Each year, funding limitations mean not every qualified participant can receive travel assistance. That’s where the community comes in.
If you believe in expanding opportunities in statistics, consider making a gift to support the DMP through the ASA’s BIPOC Fund. Contributions of any size directly support travel funding and program delivery, removing barriers and enabling participation.
If you’re part of an organization or company, sponsorship of the DMP offers a meaningful way to invest in the future workforce while gaining visibility within the statistics and data science community. Sponsors play a direct role in making the program possible and shaping the next generation of talent.
Get Involved
There are several ways to engage with the Diversity Mentoring Program:
- Apply as a mentee: Applications are open through May 15.
- Serve as a mentor: A few hours of your time during JSM can have a lasting impact.
- Make a gift: Support travel funding and program expenses.
- Become a sponsor: Partner with the ASA to strengthen and grow this vital initiative.
To get involved as a mentor or mentee, apply today.
Collective Investment
The Diversity Mentoring Program stands out for its immediacy: Its impact is visible in real time—in conversations, introductions, and moments that shape how participants see their future.
But the long-term, impact is even greater.
Every connection made, every barrier removed, and every opportunity created contributes to a stronger, more vibrant statistics community.
This is your chance to pay it forward. Contact ASA Director of Development Amanda Malloy to learn about sponsorship opportunities.
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