Paul Seward Trible Jr. (born December 29 1946) is an American attorney, academic administrator, and former politician. He served as a United States Senator from Virginia from 1983 to 1989 and as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1977 to 1983. Since 1996, Trible has been the president of Christopher Newport University, a public liberal‑arts institution in Newport News, Virginia.
Early life and education
Paul Trible was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to Paul S. Trible Sr. and Mary (Baker) Trible. He grew up in Virginia and attended the Virginia Military Institute, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in 1968. Trible earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1971 and subsequently entered private legal practice.
Political career
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U.S. House of Representatives (1977–1983): Trible was elected as a Republican to represent Virginia's 1st congressional district in the 95th Congress, succeeding Thomas N. Downing. He was re‑elected to three subsequent terms, serving on committees including the House Judiciary Committee and the House Committee on Education and Labor.
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U.S. Senate (1983–1989): In 1982, Trible defeated incumbent Democratic Senator Harry F. Byrd Jr., becoming one of the youngest senators at age 36. During his single six‑year term, he served on the Senate Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, and the Committee on the Judiciary. Trible chose not to seek re‑election in 1988 and was succeeded by Democrat J. Kennedy Miller.
Legal and academic career
After leaving the Senate, Trible returned to private legal practice in Washington, D.C., and later served as senior counsel at the law firm of Hogan & Hartson (now Hogan Lovells). In 1996, he was appointed president of Christopher Newport University. Under his leadership, the university expanded its campus facilities, increased enrollment, and transitioned from a small college to a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
Personal life
Trible is married to Rosemary (Lustig) Trible, and they have three children. He is involved in various civic and philanthropic activities, including service on the boards of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Historical Society.
Recognition
Trible has received multiple honors for his public service and contributions to higher education, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Virginia Military Institute and the Virginia Higher Education Leadership Award.