The Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa presents its inaugural event of the dean speaker series. Robert L. Santos, director of the U.S. Census Bureau will give a free public talk on January 26, noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Architecture Auditorium (2410 Campus Road). Santos heads the nation’s leading provider of quality data about America’s people, places and economy.
The talk will take place in-person and online. Register for the Zoom webinar here.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to learn from the U.S. Census director about the rich data and resources available at the U.S. Census Bureau that can help inform local and national policies, program planning and scientific inquiry,” said Thompson School Dean Alex Ortega. “Hawaiʻi’s rich multicultural population and unique social, health and environmental issues can benefit from accurate and robust census data.”
The lecture, “The Real Challenge Facing Researchers Is…Us!” will leverage stories from Santos’ career to illustrate the scientific value of utilizing the most important tool anyone can bring to a research study: their brain—using critical thinking combined with their ‘whole selves’ (values, cultures, life and work experiences, etc.) to offer unique perspectives and contributions to just about any scientific endeavor.
“Academia is great about creating curriculum that prepares aspiring scientists, analysts and researchers for the technical challenges needed for a successful career,” Santos said. “Analytic tools can be complex, and they take time to learn well. But sometimes, the most important tool one needs is not that of a method, it is a process.”
Santos was sworn in as the 26th director of the U.S. Census Bureau on January 5, 2022. His career spans over 40 years in survey research, statistical design and analysis and executive-level management at several top survey research organizations across the country. He was awarded the American Statistical Association’s Founder’s Award, the American Association for Public Opinion Research Award, and several others for his contributions to the Mexican community.
During his visit, Santos will also meet with government officials, students, faculty and various community groups.
Read more on Santos in the U.S. Census Bureau website.
