INFORMS Roundtable Sponsored SpeakerTalithia Williams
Big Data Expert, Professor of Mathematics & Host of NOVA Wonders
A host of the PBS series, NOVA Wonders, Dr. Talithia Williams is a groundbreaking professor, popular TED speaker, inspiring author and passionate STEM/STEAM advocate. She has made it her life’s work to get people of all ages and backgrounds excited about the bold possibilities of a STEM education and to “STEMpower” women and minorities to enter these professions. Her latest book, Power in Numbers: The Rebel Women of Mathematics reflects Williams’ passion to re-brand the field of mathematics as anything but dry, technical or male-dominated. Renowned for her popular TED Talk, “Own Your Body’s Data,” she advocates for all of us to deploy data as a way of taking charge of our own health. A vibrant, engaging and energizing speaker, Dr. Williams demystifies data, statistics, probabilities and the mathematical process in amusing and insightful ways. She also passionately champions the contributions of scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians and their vital role in transforming our future.
Pushing Past Barriers: Creating a Cultural Mindset of Data-agency
To reach its full potential as a driver of operational excellence, data analytics must be championed as an integral piece of organizational culture. Adopting a true data-driven approach requires leaders to secure deep buy-in, constantly working to emphasize how data – when mindfully collected and evaluated – can advance strategic outcomes and inform the decision-making of all employees, regardless of seniority. In this talk, we will discuss the cultural shift needed to make data actionable and include examples of how organizations have leveraged an emphasis on data to save lives, save money and solve today’s problems.
