L. Christopher Plein, Ph. D., an Eberly Professor of Outstanding Public Service at West Virginia University, can help provide context and expert analysis of the health care reform plan passed by Congress on March 21. Plein is chair of the Division of Public Administration and also serves as an assistant dean for WVU’s Eberly College of Arts & Sciences.

Dr. Plein’s area of specialty is public policy formation and implementation. Recently, his research has concentrated on the study of social programs, with a special emphasis on the effects of welfare reform and state health policy. Plein’s research has reached national audiences through numerous publications and presentations. Dr. Plein also studies public administration and policy in West Virginia. He is co-author of the recently published book, “West Virginia Politics and Government” (University of Nebraska Press, 2008).

Plein holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Missouri – Columbia, a Master of Arts in political science from East Tennessee State University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Emory & Henry College.

To interview Plein about the public health care option, call 304-293-7974 or email Chris.Plein@mail.wvu.edu. He may also be reached through Rebecca Herod at the Eberly College of Arts & Sciences at 304-293-7405 ext. 5251 or Rebecca.Herod@mail.wvu.edu.