Andreea Erciulescu Named Fellow of American Statistical Association for Achievements in Data Science

Andreea Erciulescu Elected ASA Fellow

On May 1, 2025, the statistical community celebrated Andreea Erciulescu, PhD, for her recent election as a Fellow of the American Statistical Association (ASA). This prestigious acknowledgment highlights her impressive accomplishments in statistics and data science and places her among the top percentile of professionals in the field. The ASA recognizes only 0.3% of its members each year for their exceptional contributions, making this an extraordinary honor.

Erciulescu serves as an Associate Vice President for Statistics and Data Science at Westat, a noted leader in the realm of research, data collection, and analysis. This recognition comes as a result of her innovative approaches in statistical integration, particularly her work with hierarchical modeling and complex survey data. Her research focuses on diverse areas, which include, but are not limited to, official statistics and their applications across various sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and recreation.

Upon receiving this esteemed title, Erciulescu expressed her gratitude, saying, "I am deeply honored to be named an ASA Fellow. I look forward to continuing to advance the use of data to tackle intricate challenges and further contribute to the field of statistics and data science.” Her commitment to utilizing data effectively to address pressing issues reflects the ongoing mission of both the ASA and Westat.

Throughout her career, Erciulescu has distinguished herself not only through her research but also through her dedication to the statistical community. She is an Elected Member of the International Statistical Institute (ISI) and actively participates in several professional organizations. Her roles include editorial responsibilities for various prestigious journals, in addition to organizing and chairing significant sessions at international conferences.

Liz Mannshardt, PhD, who is the Vice President and Director of Statistics and Data Science at Westat, commended Erciulescu's remarkable achievements, stating, "This is a well-deserved honor. It's a testament to her exceptional expertise and unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality, innovative results. I am sure she will have continued success and impact in the discipline."

The ASA, established in 1839, stands as a global leader in statistical science, promoting sound practices, advancing research, and influencing public policy. With members in over 90 countries, the organization aims to foster data-driven decision-making processes around the world. Their work spans across various realms, including governmental statistics and the promotion of statistical literacy in the general public.

Westat, the organization where Erciulescu works, specializes in comprehensive research services. Their focus ranges from health and education to transportation and social policy. Through their commitment to providing evidence-based findings, they facilitate unique insights that help clients enhance outcomes across various domains, including both governmental and private sectors.

In summary, Andreea Erciulescu’s election as an ASA Fellow represents not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone in the field of statistics and data science. Her work continues to inspire and lead innovations that will impact future generations of statisticians and researchers alike. As the statistical community continues to evolve with the advent of new technologies and methodologies, figures like Erciulescu will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of data science.