Volunteer Profile: Bob Mehler, UCF ’96
Bob Mehler is a 1996 graduate of the University of Central Florida, where he earned a bachelor of science in chemistry. During his undergraduate years, Bob was actively involved in Phi Delta Theta, serving as vice president, treasurer, and president of his chapter.
Since graduating, Bob has remained committed to the Fraternity. He served as the chapter advisory board (CAB) chair for Florida Iota for ten years and, since 2011, has served as a province president, supporting chapters throughout Central and South Florida. Bob has also contributed as faculty for the McKenzie Family Presidents Leadership Conference and the Kleberg Emerging Leadership Institute.
Professionally, Bob is a senior chemist with the City of Altamonte Springs, where he has worked for nearly thirty years. He is the metals chemist and the lead instructor for the City’s AS²I Program. This program partners with the Seminole County Public School System to introduce middle and high school students to STEM careers. In addition, Bob oversees the laboratory’s operational budget.
Bob and his wife, Cathy, live in Winter Park, Florida. They have a daughter, Francesca, who is a promising young opera singer. In his free time, Bob enjoys biking, kayaking, fishing, cooking, traveling, riding roller coasters, and spending time with his family.
Who or what inspired you to become a volunteer?
My time as an undergraduate in Phi Delta Theta was one of the best periods of my life. I met people who became lifelong friends. Seeing how involved our chapter advisor and province president were—and how much they genuinely cared about helping our chapter succeed—had a huge impact on me. Giving back to the organization that helped me grow so much was a no-brainer. After volunteering for twenty-five years, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
What would you tell someone who is considering volunteering for Phi Delta Theta?
Just do it! Talk to other alumni who are already involved. You absolutely have something to offer the undergraduate members of Phi Delta Theta. Reach out to alumni you know and ask about their experiences, or contact GHQ—our staff is great at connecting volunteers with chapters that need support. Volunteering for Phi Delta Theta is incredibly rewarding. Sometimes I feel like I get more out of it than the chapters I advise.
Do you feel that Phi Delta Theta made a difference in your life?
Most definitely. I had no idea what I was getting into when I joined, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. I gained a second family and met some of the sharpest people I’ve ever known. Phi Delta Theta has had an overwhelmingly positive influence on my life.
