What services does WV STeP provide?

Our primary output is our Science and Technology (S&T) Notes. These provide a brief overview of a topic, the current policy governing the issue, and policy options should the legislature wish to act. The Notes can be found here, and you can learn about the Note process here. We are also happy to answer questions about our Notes, provide testimony, give presentations, or hold meetings to discuss topics further if you reach out to info@wvstep.org.

How did WV STeP get started?

WV STeP is a spin-off of the West Virginia Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (WV STPF) originally housed in the West Virginia University Bridge Initiative for Science and Technology Policy, Leadership, and Communications and led by Drs. Joan Centrella and Deborah Stine. This pilot program was funded by the National Council for State Legislatures, who has resolved to start a number of these programs across the country. When West Virginia University made the decision to discontinue the Bridge Initiative, we were encouraged to preserve and continue the Fellowship program outside of the university. To distinguish our independent program from its predecessor, we rebranded as WV STeP and moved the program to the capital city of Charleston.

Where does WV STeP funding come from?

WV STeP is proud to be funded by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation at this time. Historically, our funding came from the NCSL with support from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. We also accept monetary gifts from individuals who wish to contribute to our mission.

Does WV STeP have a partisan stance, make policy recommendations, or lobby?

Absolutely not. Our goal is to serve as translators, turning technical data and complex discussion into easily understandable, “bite-sized” summaries. While our staff are experts in their given field, they are not experts in every field and are not qualified to give recommendations across the wide array of policy topics we are asked to cover. Instead, we give policy options-things other states are already doing that could work in West Virginia. We do not create these options; we find and analyze them, communicate our findings, and leave the decision to the policymakers. A state ethics board query has also confirmed that our work is not considered lobbying. Our only advocacy is for the importance and inclusion of data in policy decision-making.

Are S&T Notes free?

Our Notes are provided by request at no cost for the West Virginia Legislature and are available for free to the public here.

Who prepares the S&T Notes?

S&T Notes are written by our WV STeP Fellows, who are early career professionals that have obtained their PhD and are interested in serving West Virginians.

Who can use S&T Notes?

Anyone! We love to see our Notes used wherever they can be helpful!

How can I get involved with WV STeP?

We would love to have you! Please reach out to us at info@wvstep.org to discuss how we can work together!