For those cold, boring days next February, try the Great Issues Committee's latest offering: Ben Stein–with equal ingredients to entertain and inform. Wow.

"He brings a mix of a humorous presentation and something to do with current issues, with things that are in the news," said committee chair Joey Kneer.

Stein, a former Nixon speechwriter and respected pundit, is probably best known these days for his wry comedy–showcased in movies like "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and television shows like Comedy Central's "Win Ben Stein's Money."

He is scheduled to speak at Saint Louis University on Feb. 7, 2005.

Kneer said the committee used the student government's campus activities e-mail to ask students who they would prefer to see on campus: Stein, Erin Brockovich, comedian Craig Kilborn or Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura.

Students overwhelmingly chose Stein, Kneer said, and the committee then set to securing his appearance. Eventually, Great Issues was able to contract him through the Young American Foundation.

"It's a phenomenal [event] for us," Kneer said. "Not only is Stein a huge name, but he's someone who, I feel, students relate to. He has a lot to offer."

Kneer added that although Stein has not yet told the committee what he will be talking about, the comedian is known for presenting current-news issues with both astute and humorous analysis.

"I think he is someone every college student can relate to," Kneer said, "from the light-hearted comedy side to his stance on the issues."The committee has yet to announce any other events it has planned for the spring semester.