Mizzou alumni James and Lisa Holstein established a scholarship in honor of James’ father and longtime statistics professor, James E. Holstein. The new scholarship honors the emeritus professor’s decades-long devotion to education while ensuring future statisticians can pursue their academic goals at Mizzou. 

James Holstein began teaching statistics in 1957. He was one of the four founding members of the Department of Statistics when the program was established in the College of Arts and Science in 1963. As the director of undergraduate students, Holstein mentored students, helping them navigate classes and prepare for their careers and graduate school. He also served on doctoral and thesis committees across campus.  

As Mizzou alumni, James and Lisa know firsthand the value of an education at Missouri’s flagship university. They decided an endowment would be the perfect way to celebrate the emeritus professor’s legacy. With their establishment of the James E. Holstein Statistics Scholarships, they are ensuring that future students will be prepared for successful careers as statisticians and scholars. 

“Our hope is that this scholarship not only aids the awarded students but also supports the statistics profession amid the rise of artificial intelligence, ensuring quality data is utilized and results are properly analyzed and reported for generations to come,” noted James. His father echoes the sentiment, excited that his namesake scholarship will enhance quantitative thinking about the source, analysis, and interpretation of data. 

Dr. Holstein retired in 1992. He and his wife Mariann continue to support Mizzou through their involvement with the Museum of Art and Archaeology and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.