Farris died early Saturday at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center's Mainland Division after a brief illness, said Tim Kelly, public relations officer the college in Galloway Township. Her age was not immediately available.
"Her death was unexpected, and a great loss for us," Kelly said. He noted that the school's enrollment grew throughout her tenure as did the college. Among her many accomplishments was founding the school's Holocaust Research Center.
A scientist, Farris ran the college for 20 years, and its main campus road was renamed in her honor when she retired in 2003. The Atlantic City native was known for her eye-catching hats and flamboyant personality.
