The Legion of Merit Award honors those outstanding members of our Fraternity who have made a lifelong commitment to the service of Phi Delta Theta. The recipients of this award are not only living testimony that Phi Delta Theta is a “Fraternity for Life,” but they are also the men who give that phrase meaning for so many of us. During the 85th General Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, Phi Delta Theta recognized Brother Rich Fabritius, Kent State ’90, with the Legion of Merit Award.
Rich Fabritius was initiated into Phi Delta Theta by the Ohio Lambda Chapter at Kent State University on September 16, 1990. As an undergraduate, he was a student leader, trusted friend, and model Phi—earning the respect of his brothers through both his character and commitment. He graduated in 1994 with a degree in business management and marketing, and, fittingly, began his post-graduate journey in the service of the Fraternity.
Following graduation, Brother Rich Fabritius joined the General Headquarters staff as a chapter consultant. He quickly emerged as a steady hand and natural leader among the staff, ultimately serving as director of chapter services. In these roles, he guided and mentored countless young Phis, strengthening our chapters and embodying the values he had pledged to uphold.
Over the years, Rich never wavered in his service to Phi Delta Theta. He served as Education Commissioner, a province president, and a longtime volunteer. His deep commitment, steady vision, and passion for the Fraternity’s future led to his election to the General Council, where he served as member-at-large, reporter, treasurer, and vice president, ultimately becoming the 63rd General Council president from 2014 to 2016. After completing his General Council presidency, Brother Fabritius came back and served for an additional year on the General Council as a Member-at-Large.
His presidency came at a pivotal moment in Phi Delta Theta’s modern history. At a time when fraternities across the country were being challenged to define their value, Rich helped guide Phi Delta Theta through transformational work. He was instrumental in launching the Become the Greatest Version of Yourself campaign—a bold reimagining of our brand that challenged every member to live a life of purpose, character, and growth. His message was clear: we must be our reputation keeper. This mantra became a defining characteristic of his leadership.
He also helped strengthen the Fraternity’s investment in leadership education, philanthropy, and alumni engagement—all while continuing to model what it means to love your home chapter while serving an international brotherhood. He was a frequent speaker and faculty member at countless Fraternity events, including the Kleberg Emerging Leaders Institute, the McKenzie Family Presidents Leadership Conference, and multiple General Conventions.
Rich is known for his calm presence, humble leadership, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of Phi Delta Theta. He’s a mentor, a friend, and a man who leads not for recognition, but out of love for the experience that changed his life—and one he wants to be even better for future generations.
Professionally, Rich has built an impressive career in marketing and advertising. He currently serves as executive director at VMLY&R, a global brand and customer experience agency. With over two decades of agency experience, he’s held leadership roles at some of the most respected firms in the industry, including managing director at Brunner and vice president of account management at Sawyer Riley Compton. Known for his strong client relationships, team development, and results-driven leadership, Rich has made a lasting impact on the organizations he serves. His passion for brand strategy, communication, and creative problem-solving has earned him the trust and respect of clients and colleagues alike.
Rich resides in Smyrna, Georgia, with his wife Heather and their daughters, Austin and Reese. A devoted husband and father, his commitment to family, community, and the Fraternity stands as a shining example of living out the values of Friendship, Sound Learning, and Rectitude.
For his unwavering dedication, his leadership at every level of our brotherhood, and for embodying what it means to be a Phi for Life, Phi Delta Theta is proud to honor Brother Richard E. “Rich” Fabritius with the Legion of Merit Award.
