ABSTRACT
Statistics leaders advance the quality of research methods or outcomes in a broad spectrum of disciplines from medicine to astronomy to economics, influence others to go down a better path, and make sure their positive impact on both people and science lasts in their absence. One of the greatest examples of a statistics leader by this definition was University of California — Berkeley (“Berkeley”) statistics professor Elizabeth L. Scott (1917-1988). Her legacy continues in the form of the Elizabeth L. Scott Award, administered by the Committee of Presidents of Statistical Societies (COPSS). While Scott at times held titled administrative positions in the university or professional associations, she was at her best when she exercised natural leadership based on pure influence toward solving societal problems, especially problems surrounding the status of women in academe. In this chapter, I discuss four leadership principles based on the qualities and behaviors of Scott that made her an effective natural leader and prominent role model for future generations, and I note the potential for all statisticians to develop their leadership and increase their positive impact in their workplaces and communities.
