Theta Chi - University of Florida

T he Spring 2025 semester was a vibrant and meaningful time for Tau Chapter, marked by growth, service, and strong brotherhood. Our members came together to uphold the values of Theta Chi—academic excellence, leadership, and social responsibility—making the semester one to remember. ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS Academic success remained a top priority. Theta Chi ranked third in GPA among all IFC chapters. Members participated in study groups, tutoring sessions, and held each other accountable, creating a culture that values both learning and mutual support. COMMUNITY SERVICE Serving others is central to our mission. This semester, we participated in several impactful service projects. Our brothers teamed up with Tri Delta for TOPSoccer, helping children with special needs enjoy the game of soccer through one-on-one mentorship. We also worked with Delta Gamma at St. Francis House, a local homeless shelter, assisting with cleaning, organizing, and staffing daily operations. SOCIAL EVENTS We launched our first-ever 1980s-themed disco party, Boombox, which was a major hit and a great opportunity for members to connect and celebrate in style. We're also thrilled to announce we successfully courted Tri Delta as our Homecoming partner for Fall 2025. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Members eagerly took on new roles, organized events, and mentored our newest brothers. We proudly welcomed 11 members in the Spring 2025 pledge class who represent a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. BROTHERHOOD AND PERSONAL GROWTH The bonds of brotherhood grew stronger through shared experiences and unforgettable moments. One highlight was gathering to watch the Florida Gators win the men's basketball national championship, which is a memory we'll always cherish! LOOKING AHEAD Spring 2025 was a powerful reminder of what Theta Chi stands for, and we're energized for what's next. Through academic achievement, service, leadership, and brotherhood, we're proud of the mark we left and even more excited about what lies ahead. Planning is already underway for an exciting Fall semester, both in recruitment and campus involvement. We remain committed to our values and to making a lasting impact on each other, on campus, and in the community. Fraternally, Gavin Serwe '22, Chapter President Donald M. Baker '67 retired from Shell Oil Company after 34 years. He currently runs a business selling vintage items, including fine china, collectibles, and vinyl records. (View the collection at goodycloset.com!) Donald lives in the New Orleans, La., area in Kenner. Email: bakerman1b@cs.com Thomas J. Gelli '69 retired from working for the federal government in Washington, D.C., in 2008. He is currently serving on his HOA's legal documents committee in New Port Richey, Fla. Email: thomasgelli@yahoo.com Roger J. Messersmith '69 lives in Fairfax Station, Va., and has been retired for the last three years. Since retiring, he's volunteered at the Cloverleaf Equine Center in Clifton, Va., a program which provides horseback riding opportunities for those with physical and developmental disabilities. He also serves as a part-time docent at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum near Washington Dulles International Airport. Email: rjmessers@gmail.com Jack Adkins '77 retired on May 31 after 30 years with the Florida Department of Transportation, which were preceded by 14 years in the private sector. He resides in Deland, Fla. Email: gatorjack17@yahoo.com William J. Bozic Jr. '82 is currently working for the National Park Service at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park from his home in Houston, Texas. Email: texmexfla@yahoo.com Leonard "Bobo" Norwillo Jr. '82 retired after 30 years of service to the Boy Scouts of America and is living out his next chapter of life in Tallahassee, Fla. Email: bnorwillo@bellsouth.net E. Reed Smith Jr., M.D. '87 is living and working in the D.C. area as an EMS physician and the operational medical director for Arlington County Fire and Police Departments in Leesburg, Va. Email: ereed.smith@gmail.com John M. Benton '94 practices commercial real estate law in Jacksonville, Fla. "Emma and I enjoy traveling the world with our three kids during their school breaks," he said. "Our eldest daughter matriculated at UF in Fall 2024, and the pregame gatherings are better than the '90s!" Email: jbenton2009@comcast.net Erich J. Krzyzak '12 is a certified financial planner in Orlando, Fla. He is also a local UFAA Gator Club board member. Email: ekrzyzak@gmail.com Say hello to our Dream Girl, Kendall Wright, who raised the most money for USO! In total, the Dream Girl Competition raised more than $10,000. Theta Chi celebrates taking first place in the ZTA 5K, continuing our pattern of athletic excellence every semester. Congratulations to Ryan Crossan '22 for being tapped into Florida Blue Key. Alumni News Alumni News Spring 2025 Reflections and Fall 2025 Ambitions TAU CHAPTER STRIVES FOR EXCELLENCE

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