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DOI
https://doi.org/10.21974/avvg-pn49
Digital Publisher
VCU Libraries
Publication Date
2026
Description
This brief biography introduces Dr. David John Farmer, one of public administration’s most influential and imaginative thinkers. It traces his journey from student to scholar, showing how his groundbreaking work challenged the field to move beyond rigid traditions and embrace creativity, ethics, and reflection in public service. Written for both scholars and general readers, the biography reveals that Dr. Farmer’s career represents more than the accomplishments of a distinguished academic—it embodies the larger idea that public administration must move beyond technique to become a field grounded in imaginization, reflection, and humanity.
Note
Authors
Yali Pang, Ph.D., is a Senior Research Associate at the Research Institute for Social Equity at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She was a PhD student at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs when she first met Dr. David John Farmer.
David John Farmer, Ph.D., is a Professor Emeritus at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU.
Rosemary L. Farmer, Ph.D., LCSW, is an Associate Professor Emerita at the School of Social Work at VCU.
Topical Subject
Farmer, David John, 1935-
Topical Subject
Biography
Disciplines
Higher Education | Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration | Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social Work
Location
Richmond (Va.)
Contributor
Virginia Commonwealth University Research Institute for Social Equity
Date Created
2026
Date of Submission
03-09-2026
Language
English
Rights
© The Authors 2026 is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC 4.0)
Included in
Higher Education Commons, Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons, Social Work Commons