The John E. Thrasher Military & Leadership Award will annually support a student of exceptional leadership and character at Florida State University, who is also a high performing senior ROTC cadet commissioning into the US Air Force, Army, or Navy.

This award is established in honor of Florida State University’s 15th President, John E. Thrasher, a lifelong Seminole, veteran, decorated Vietnam War combat recipient, and public servant. His distinguished career included service as a lawyer, lobbyist, businessman, County Commissioner, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, and State Senator. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who exemplified integrity, courage, selfless service, and faithfulness to his family, university, state, country, and above all - God.

The objective of this project is to ensure the selected cadet receives a financial award to assist in their transition between student and active-duty life. Once $50,000 is raised, the funds will be used to establish an endowment, ensuring the award is sustained in perpetuity.