Leaders of the Florida Senate Congratulate Sen. John Thrasher, FSU

Florida Senate President Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, and President-Designate Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, released statements Tuesday regarding the Florida State University board of trustees selecting state Sen. John Thrasher, R-St. Augustine, as Florida States new president.

Tuesday's selection now goes to the State University System Board of Governors.

President Gaetz:

John Thrasher will lead Florida State University with the same consummate skill and commitment to excellence that has propelled him to success at every level of public service. From the battlefields of Vietnam, from which he returned as a highly decorated officer, to his years of honorable service as Floridas speaker of the House of Representatives, and now as the lion of the Senate, if you want to succeed you want John Thrasher leading your team.

In the tradition of Sandy D'Alemberte and T.K. Wetherell, John Thrasher will lead Florida State into a golden era of strength, integrity and success. While the Senates loss will be FSUs gain, I have every confidence the State University System Board of Governors will ratify this wise selection.

President-Designate Gardiner:

I have mixed emotions today as I congratulate my friend John Thrasher. I am proud to call John a colleague, confidante and trusted adviser. While I will miss our interactions in the day to day operations of the Senate and the opportunity to serve together over the next two years, there is no question he is the right choice to lead Florida State as the university strives to solidify its ranking as a top research university. Florida State will be a stronger university with John Thrasher at the helm. Camille and I wish John and Jean great success as they embark on the next step of this journey, and we know they will always be a part of our Senate family.