UWSC Survey Methodologist Jennifer Dykema elected to serve as Associate Conference Chair of AAPOR

Jennifer Dykema, Survey Methodologist and Senior Scientist at the UW Survey Center, has been elected to serve as the Associate Conference Chair of AAPOR (American Association for Public Opinion Research). (Click here for AAPOR’s press release.) Her term will begin at AAPOR’s 70th Annual Conference on May 14-17, in Hollywood, Florida. In describing how her background and experience prepared her to handle the job of Associate Conference Chair, Jen noted: “As the primary survey methodologist for one of the largest university-based survey research centers, I interact with data producers and consumers at all levels. My job is to increase knowledge and spread appreciation for evidence-based research practices. To be effective, I must stay abreast of the latest developments in our rapidly changing field. Throughout my career, the AAPOR conference has been an annual touchstone event. It provides motivation for excellence, a platform for creating and socializing new research, a place for building new connections and refreshing old ones, a forum for furthering knowledge, challenging assumptions, and, together, advancing our field. My roles within AAPOR have progressively broadened and deepened my perspective on what makes a successful conference. As Special Events/Social Activities Coordinator, I gained an appreciation for the importance of incorporating fun and collegiality prominently into the conference equation. Serving as Chair of the Membership and Chapter Relations Committee allowed me to channel my enthusiasm for this organization to the challenge of promoting diversification and growth of membership, while strengthening connections with our local chapters. Finally, from a content standpoint I’ve relished the last three years serving on the Conference Chair’s Committee, reviewing abstracts and helping organize relevant and engaging sessions.” Jen is thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to help “laissez les bons temps rouler” in New Orleans in 2017!