James B. Becker, M.D., vice dean for government relations, health care policy and external affairs for the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and an associate professor in the department of family and community health, has been named the 25th Distinguished John Deaver Drinko Academy Fellow at Marshall University.
The announcement of his appointment was made at the annual Drinko dinner and symposium on March 14 by executive director Montserrat Miller, Ph.D.
“Dr. Becker is the first Drinko Fellow to be named from our school of medicine and his appointment couldn’t be more timely,” Miller said. “His dedication to the study of population health, addiction medicine and rural health—all very important topics to our state, region and nation right now—is commendable. We are looking forward to great things during his term.”
Distinguished Drinko Fellows receive a stipend, re-assigned time from teaching, and other financial and clerical support for two academic years to undertake research, special projects, or other scholarly pursuits.
In addition to his teaching and administrative responsibilities at the school of medicine, Becker is a family physician who maintains a clinical practice at Marshall Health. Named as the West Virginia Family Physician of the Year in 2013, Becker has received several other clinical awards and is noted for his tireless devotion to improving the quality of life for his patients. He is a widely sought consultant who has addressed audiences at more than 50 professional meetings and made nearly 20 grand rounds presentations.
A highly regarded physician executive whose work in health care and government relations has been recognized at the state and national level, Becker’s service extends to state government as the medical director for the West Virginia State Bureau for Medical Services. He also serves on medical education and clinical committees across the nation.
Initially trained as a clinical toxicologist, Becker entered medical school at Marshall, graduating in 1993. He completed a residency in family health at Marshall in 1995 and fellowship training in occupational medicine and most recently, completed additional training in addiction medicine.
Becker joined the Marshall faculty in 1996.
A gallery of photos from the March 14 event is available here.