Feature Stories
John P. Apol, '69
Washington D.C. native, John “Jack” Apol, ‘69, was a professor at Detroit College of Law for 34 years. He spent four years practicing law before deciding to teach it; a choice that his students and colleagues agree it was the right one.
After earning his B.A. in political philosophy from GVSU, Apol continued his education at the University of Michigan. Upon his graduation from law school in 1972, he accepted a position as a law clerk for Judge Charles W. Joiner for two years. Having expressed a high amount of respect for the judge, Apol kept the letter of recommendation and reference that the judge gave him.
Apol established a practice with his former classmate, Ms. Laurence Nolan, and also began teaching research, writing, and advocacy at Detroit College of Law. His success as a trial lawyer gained him a position working in patent practice. In 1978, Apol was presented with a dilemma: Teaching law or practicing law? His decision would lead him to a tenure track position at Detroit College of Law where he would spend the rest of his career.
Over the course of his career, Apol was nominated to be the dean of the college, served on the Woodcreek Community Board of Trustees, was a keynote speaker at graduations, and maintained top ratings among his students and colleagues.
Apol passed away on July 1, 2012 in Petoskey.
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