Florida State University’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy (COSSPP) held a ceremony to honor a new professorship established in honor of former LeRoy Collins Institute Director Jim Apthorp on May 30, 2025.
The Jim Apthorp Endowed Professorship, established by Darrel Flanel and Laura Lobdell, honors Apthorp’s legacy and his transformative impact on those around him.
“Jim approached every role he held — with the governor, at Florida State, and beyond — with quiet determination, deep kindness, and an unwavering respect for others,” Flanel said. “He was beloved across political and personal lines, admired not just for his intellect and leadership, but for his rare ability to listen generously and treat everyone with dignity. To me, Jim was more than a mentor — he was like a father. His wisdom, compassion, and steadfast friendship shaped many lives in ways that can never be fully repaid.”
Jim Apthorp graduated from FSU with a degree in political science in 1961. Over the course of his distinguished career, Apthorp served as chief of staff for Governor Reubin O’D. Askew in 1970 and held numerous positions on civic and governmental bodies, including the 1977-78 Florida Constitution Revision Commission, Collins Center for Public Policy (later renamed the LeRoy Collins Institute at Florida State University), Council of 100, and FSU Foundation.
During the ceremony, speakers reflected on Apthorp’s legacy and the values he embodied throughout his career.
“It is an honor to help celebrate the legacy of James (Jim) Apthorp in the form of this professorship in the College,” COSSPP Dean Tim Chapin said. “Jim was the epitome of a public servant, as he worked tirelessly, selflessly, and successfully to better the great State of Florida and improve the lives of the state’s residents. Florida’s people, government, and environment are far better for his work and leadership in the state.”
As part of the ceremony, one of Apthorp’s daughters, East Apthorp, presented a framed letter former Governor LeRoy Collins sent to Apthorp, written during his high school years and encouraging him to attend Florida State University — a symbolic gesture that highlighted Apthorp’s lifelong connection to FSU.
“This professorship allows a tradition of academic mentorship, leadership, and scholarship — all things my father cherished,” East Apthorp said.
Cheri Boyd Apthorp, Jim’s wife, reflected on the lasting influence he had on their family.
“We are so proud of Jim that his name and legacy will forever be attached to an endowed professorship at the Leroy Collins Institute at Florida State University,” Cheri said. “Jim was a wonderful influence, not only on those he worked with throughout his career in public policy, but also on his many children and grandchildren. His family benefited enormously from his many lessons, and our lives were shaped by his love, principles, and wisdom.”
FSU Provost Jim Clark emphasized the long-term impact of the professorship.
“Mr. Darrel Flanel, together with Ms. Laura Lobdell, has made an extraordinary commitment to Florida State University through the creation of the Jim Apthorp Endowed Professorship,” Clark said. “This professorship will support generations of scholars in public policy, ensuring that Jim’s legacy lives on in classrooms, in research, and in the impact of every student who learns under its banner.”
The Jim Apthorp Endowed Professorship stands as a testament to Apthorp’s character and his enduring commitment to Tallahassee, Florida State University, and the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy.
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