John Florence, Jr., Vice President Human Resources, General Counsel, and Secretary for Sonoco Products Company, was recently elected to the Coker University Board of Trustees. Florence’s three year term began with the Board’s July meeting.

"Mr. Florence brings thoughtful experience and unique perspectives to the board,” said Dr. Natalie Harder, President of Coker University. “His knowledge and skills will contribute greatly to navigating the current and future Coker University environment. We are excited for Mr. Florence to join the Coker University Board of Trustees.” 

Florence joined Sonoco in 2015 as the company’s corporate attorney. In addition to managing legal work for the company, Florence manages Sonoco’s Corporate Secretary and governance function. 

Prior to Sonoco, Florence worked as an attorney at Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A., in Columbia, S.C., where he handled legal work for Sonoco and other clients. He holds an M.B.A. from the University of South Carolina, a J.D. from Samford University, and a B.A. in English from Presbyterian College. 

Florence is a member of the American Bar Association, South Carolina Bar Association, Richland County Bar Association, and the Association of Corporate Counsel. He is a member of the U.S.C. Moore School of Business Partnership Foundation and a 2018 graduate of Liberty Fellows. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Governor's School for Science and Mathematics. 

Florence and his wife, Jeanette, live in Columbia, S.C., with their three children. 

The Coker University Board of Trustees meets quarterly and maintains broad responsibility for the mission, long-range direction, policies and financial condition of the institution.