Dr. VanRiper holds a law degree from the University of Montana and a doctorate in Philosophy with an emphasis on applied ethics from the University of Utah.  She joined the Department of Medical Humanities in 2009 after several years of practicing law and working in public policy. 

Dr. VanRiper’s academic interests include:

Legal and ethical issues at the end of life

Research Ethics

Health care and health insurance policy

She is currently working on a book concerning ethical issues involved in the use of human remains for research and other purposes.

email: vanriperj@ecu.edu