Florida State University President John Thrasher has dedicated his life to serving the Sunshine State. Within the span of 50 years, Thrasher has served in several respected roles within multiple fields, including the military, law, government, and education. Prior to assuming the role of 15th president of Florida State University, Thrasher served as Chairman of the Clay County School Board, speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, member of the Florida Senate, as well as chairman for the Republican Party of Florida.

Thrasher is Fluent in Floridian. When he isn’t leading one of the top 50 universities in the nation, he spends his time visiting two of Florida’s most beautiful destinations: St. Augustine Beach and Green Cove Springs. “We really love St. Augustine Beach but we love our little place in Green Cove Springs where we have a house still out in Clay County. We raised our children in that county.”

Outside of establishing the athletics-known university as a leading academic and research institution, Thrasher serves on the College Football Playoff Board of Managers. He notes that his position as a university president offers him a unique perspective as compared to other members. “I think having presidents involved, particularly understanding the academic side of the student-athlete […] is a very positive thing.”Listen to hear us talk about all of these issues and more.

If you enjoyed this interview, you might enjoy our episodes with FAMU President Dr. Larry Robinson, University of Florida President Kent Fuchs and Chancellor of the State University System, Marshall Criser III.

The Fluent in Floridian podcasts seeks to highlight the Sunshine State’s brightest leaders solving issues affecting the state’s citizens, as well as its 100 million annual tourists. Each week, the podcast will cover important topics, including education, the environment, the arts, politics, business, and health care. Each interview will allow listeners to gain insight on both the featured guest’s professional and personal background, as well as how they are contributing to the state’s growth and continued success.

Each of the episode’s guests are fluent in Floridian. Interviewees such as Florida State University President John Thrasher and political operative Sally Bradshaw assert the excellence that is emitted throughout the state’s university systems. Conservationist Eric Draper and community developer Syd Kitson uphold the opportunities the state has to develop from an environmental and technological standpoint.

Chris Cate, Fluent in Floridian’s leading interviewer, is a former teacher, television reporter, spokesperson in the governor’s office, communications director for two of Florida’s secretaries of state, as well as a former communications director for our state’s chief financial officer. As a current member of the SalterMitchell PR creative team, Cate aids Florida businesses and organizations in relaying their stories. “I’m a Floridian who loves and cares about the future of this state.” Subscribe to the Fluent in Floridian Podcast on Apple Podcast, Stitcher, or Google Play Music.