By Preeti Vasishtha
Anniversaries have a way of making us pause. They pull us out of the urgency of today and ask us to look both backward and forward—to see how far we’ve come, and to consider what might come next.
They serve as markers in our personal and professional lives, giving us an anchor in the constant flow of change.
This year, the Academy marks its 60th anniversary—a moment to reflect on its journey and look ahead. Our cover story, “Sixty and Counting,” reflects on how, from its founding in 1965 to the current age of artificial intelligence, the Academy has adapted to meet the moment. Past presidents reflect on six decades of progress—and the challenges and opportunities that shape the profession and the Academy. Meanwhile, in his final column as president, “The Best Is Yet to Come,” Darrell Knapp highlights the Academy’s six decades of faithfully serving the public and the U.S. actuarial profession.
In “Six Decades of Service, A Future of Impact,” Executive Director and CEO William J. Michalisin outlines the Academy’s priorities and underscores why membership is essential for every actuary practicing in the U.S.
There are several other articles in this issue worth your attention. Professionalism—central to the Academy’s mission—comes into focus in three articles. “Professionalism in Practice” (page 24) highlights why self-regulation matters—and how the Academy and actuaries at every career stage play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and trust of the profession.
That theme continues in “A Steady Hand,” where Actuarial Board for Counseling and Discipline Chairperson William C. Hines shares insights on steering the profession through ethical complexities, expanding the use of requests for guidance, and preparing for challenges ahead. And in “Championing Standards of Practice,” Kevin Dyke, Actuarial Standards Board chairperson, reflects on the board’s accomplishments and its role in guiding actuaries through evolving practice areas, regulatory expectations, and emerging risks..
Shifting focus to public policy, another core mission of the Academy, we’re introducing a new column, “Policy Compass,” designed to keep you informed about our policy efforts. The inaugural column discusses H.R. 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which touches upon many issues of interest to the Academy and the broader policy community, most notably in health care.
Of course, anniversaries aren’t just about looking back; they’re also about celebrating. To that end, we’re especially excited to introduce you to the 2025 Rising Actuary Award recipients. The award recognizes outstanding early-career actuaries who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and a commitment to advancing the field.
Finally, you may have noticed something different about this issue as soon you turned the first page: a refreshed nameplate for Contingencies. We chose this updated look to better reflect the magazine’s evolution while honoring its strong foundation—a small but meaningful way of marking the Academy’s 60th year.
So as you read this issue, I hope you’ll take a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate—both the Academy’s legacy and your own contributions to strengthening the profession. The Academy’s 60 years are the product of thousands of actuaries, volunteers, staff, and leaders who believe in the profession’s power to serve the public. And today, we celebrate every member whose dedication, insight, and passion have built the Academy’s legacy. Your work ensures a strong, bright future for the profession we all serve.
Preeti Vasishtha is editor-in-chief, Contingencies, and the Academy’s director of content.