Statistical Leadership: Insights from Experiences of Prominent Leaders

• Activity Number: 327 - Statistical Leadership: Insights from Experiences of Prominent Leaders
• Type: Invited
• Date/Time: Tuesday, July 31, 2018 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
• Sponsor: Caucus for Women in Statistics
• Author(s): G. David Williamson* and Charmaine B Dean* and Bonnie LaFleur* and William Brenneman*
• Companies: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and University of Waterloo and HTG Molecular Diagnostics, Inc. and The Procter & Gamble Company
• Keywords: Statistical Leadership; Statistics; Policy

Abstract

Statistical leadership is no longer debatable or optional in our field and in our community. Bob Rodriguez said in 2012, "Leadership ability is a prerequisite for the growth of our field because statistics is an interdisciplinary endeavor and our success ultimately depends on getting others to understand and act on our work." Data is the world's most valuable resource today. As a result, statisticians, who are at the forefront of both methodological development and implementation of analytics need to have a stronger voice. Statisticians will need to lead, guide and educate as policies are based on data. As statisticians, with quantitative skills that enable data-based decisions, we are suited for leadership. This session reflects the central theme of JSM 2018 of #LeadWithStatistics, and will serve as an effective forum to provide perspectives on leadership from proven statistical leaders in academia, industry, and government. The session will stimulate discussions that will help the next generation of statisticians become leaders with confidence and enthusiasm.