Wilmington University Names Farnan School of Law
Wilmington University formally named its law school the Farnan School of Law on May 1, 2026, recognizing The Honorable Joseph J. Farnan Jr. for more than five decades of service that have helped shape the University and guide the creation of its law school. The law school was initially named Wilmington University School of Law.
The dedication acknowledged Judge Farnan’s influence on Wilmington University across generations and featured remarks from several speakers who reflected on his service, leadership, and lasting impact on the University. His connection to the institution began in 1970, when he joined then-Wilmington College as a faculty member in political science. In the years that followed, he served in academic and student life leadership roles, established the College’s Criminal Justice program, provided legal counsel on significant institutional matters, and helped extend educational opportunities to traditional and non-traditional learners.
Judge Farnan continued that service through the Wilmington University Board of Trustees. He joined the Board in 2001 and was elected vice chair in 2012. He became chairman in 2014, a role he continues to hold today. During his tenure, he has helped lead the University with care, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to its mission.
His leadership also played an integral role in the creation of the law school. In 2019, Judge Farnan brought forward the idea of a law program designed to open legal education to aspiring students from all walks of life. That vision took shape in August 2023, when then-Wilmington University School of Law welcomed its first class.
“Judge Farnan has helped shape Wilmington University through years of thoughtful leadership and dedication,” says Wilmington University President Dr. LaVerne Harmon. “His belief that higher education should be accessible, affordable, and open to all aligns with our mission. Naming the law school in his honor reflects his lasting commitment to our students and to Wilmington University.”
For more information or interview requests, contact Dr. Maria Hess at maria.f.hess@wilmu.edu.
Wilmington University formally named its law school the Farnan School of Law on May 1, 2026, recognizing The Honorable Joseph J. Farnan Jr. for more than five decades of service that have helped shape the University and guide the creation of its law school. The law school was initially named Wilmington University School of Law.
The dedication acknowledged Judge Farnan’s influence on Wilmington University across generations and featured remarks from several speakers who reflected on his service, leadership, and lasting impact on the University. His connection to the institution began in 1970, when he joined then-Wilmington College as a faculty member in political science. In the years that followed, he served in academic and student life leadership roles, established the College’s Criminal Justice program, provided legal counsel on significant institutional matters, and helped extend educational opportunities to traditional and non-traditional learners.
Judge Farnan continued that service through the Wilmington University Board of Trustees. He joined the Board in 2001 and was elected vice chair in 2012. He became chairman in 2014, a role he continues to hold today. During his tenure, he has helped lead the University with care, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to its mission.
His leadership also played an integral role in the creation of the law school. In 2019, Judge Farnan brought forward the idea of a law program designed to open legal education to aspiring students from all walks of life. That vision took shape in August 2023, when then-Wilmington University School of Law welcomed its first class.
“Judge Farnan has helped shape Wilmington University through years of thoughtful leadership and dedication,” says Wilmington University President Dr. LaVerne Harmon. “His belief that higher education should be accessible, affordable, and open to all aligns with our mission. Naming the law school in his honor reflects his lasting commitment to our students and to Wilmington University.”
For more information or interview requests, contact Dr. Maria Hess at maria.f.hess@wilmu.edu.
