Michael P. Farris, J.D.

Chancellor
Professor of Government

Educational Background:
LL.M., University of London
J.D., honors graduate, Gonzaga University School of Law
B.A. in Political Science, magna cum laude, Western Washington University (formerly Western Washington State College)

Time at PHC: 2000 to present

Michael P. Farris served as founding president of Patrick Henry College (2000-2006) and is now Chancellor. In addition to teaching Constitutional Law and coaching the Moot Court team, he organizes a mentorship program for PHC students called Tyndale's Ploughmen. He serves as Chairman of the Home School Legal Defense Association.

Since founding HSLDA in 1983, Farris has used his extensive experience in both politics and appellate litigation to defend parental rights and help grow the organization to over 80,000 member families. In recognition of his work in home education, Education Week has named Farris one of the “Top 100 Faces in Education of the 20th Century.” Heritage Foundation awarded him its Salvatori Award for American Citizenship in 2002. 

Dr. Farris is the author of fourteen books, including three novels, two constitutional law textbooks, and works on marriage, parenting, homeschooling, political advocacy, and religious liberty. His daily radio program, Home School Heartbeat, airs on several hundred stations nationwide.

Farris won the Linden Cup Moot Court Competition and was the Articles Editor of the Law Review at Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane, Washington. He and his wife, Vickie, live in Purcellville, Virginia, and have ten children and twelve grandchildren.