Michael P. Farris is the President and CEO of ADF International. As only the second individual to hold this role in the organization’s history, Mr Farris possesses a remarkably diverse background as an effective litigator, educator, public advocate, pastor, and communicator, and is widely recognized for his successful work across the globe.

Prior to joining ADF International in January 2017, Mr Farris was founding president of both the Home School Legal Defense Association (1983) and Patrick Henry College (2000), and he continues to serve as Chairman of the Board of HSLDA and Chancellor Emeritus of PHC.

He graduated from Western Washington State College, magna cum laude, with a Bachelor’s in Political Science, followed by a Juris Doctor from Gonzaga University (with honours). He also earned an LL.M. in Public International Law (with honours) from the University of London.

Mr Farris has argued before the Supreme Court of the United States, eight federal circuit courts of appeals, and in the appellate courts of 13 states. He is also the author of numerous amicus briefs before the U.S. Supreme Court.

A fixture on Capitol Hill for over 30 years, Mr Farris has testified many times before both the House and Senate. He also has substantial experience in international human rights advocacy. Mr. Farris served for nearly a decade on the board of Christian Solidarity International (“CSI”)—a Swiss-based human rights organization. He served as International Vice President of CSI for a number of years and participated in missions to the Soviet Union and Romania. He has also engaged in private diplomatic missions to China and the Czech Republic.

Mr Farris is the author of more than 15 books, as well as law review and other scholarly articles, and countless pieces for the popular press.

He and his wife, Vickie, have 10 children and over two dozen grandchildren.