FSU Law Mourns the Loss of John Thrasher

We mourn the loss of President Emeritus John E. Thrasher (’73), a proud alumnus, public servant, university trustee, veteran, and valued leader at the College of Law.

President Thrasher devoted his life to advancing education, service, and leadership across the state of Florida and at FSU. A distinguished legislator, he served as Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, a state senator, and ultimately as the 15th president of Florida State University. His connection to the FSU College of Law was lifelong and deeply personal. As a legislator, President Thrasher was instrumental in securing funding for our Advocacy Center. His commitment to elevating legal education was rooted in his own experience as a law student and in his belief in the law as a tool for public good.

After his FSU presidency, President Thrasher returned to the College of Law as Associate Dean for External and Governmental Affairs and as a professor. In these roles, he guided and mentored students with the same integrity and purpose that defined his public life. President Thrasher’s influence is woven into the fabric of our institution. From the physical spaces we inhabit to the opportunities we provide our students.

We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Jean, his family, and the many people whose lives he touched. His legacy will live on in the halls of the College of Law and in the hearts of all who had the privilege of learning from or working alongside him. A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19, at Florida State University’s Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.

Click here to view his Tribute page.