In memoriam, Mel Sembler, Chairman Emeritus, 1930 – 2023

Legendary real estate developer Mel Sembler founded The Sembler Company in 1962. More than half a century later, the company is still recognized for adaptability, creativity, stability and for its passion for employees, communities and projects. Mel’s business savvy built an accomplished full-service real estate firm, and his heart for service remains at the core of the company’s day-to-day operations.

In addition to building Sembler, Mel served his country as U.S. Ambassador to Italy from 2001 to 2005 and as U.S. Ambassador to Australia and Nauru from 1989 to 1993. As the President’s personal representative, he actively promoted the United States’ interests abroad during his two terms of service. At the recommendation of the Governor-General of Australia and with the approval of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Mel was named an Honorary Officer in the Order of Australia in October 2000, an honor rarely given to foreigners.

A passionate civic and political activist, Mel’s counsel and opinions were regularly sought on the world stage. He played a leadership role in several presidential fundraising campaigns, including serving as finance co-chairman of The American Bicentennial Presidential Inaugural, raising funds needed for the nation’s 41st inauguration of the President of the United States. Mel was also finance chairman for the Republican National Committee from 1997 to 2000 and elected Florida’s national committeeman to the Republican National Committee from 1994 until 2000. His work as a staunch anti-drug activist and founder of adolescent drug treatment program STRAIGHT is well-known.

Mel held many leadership roles in the real estate development industry, including chairman of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) from 1986-1987, a position that capped 25 years of active service to this worldwide trade association.

Mel served on the boards of the International Council of Shopping Centers, American Enterprise Institute, George Bush Presidential Library Foundation, Republican Jewish Coalition and Moffitt Cancer Center. He was a sustaining member of the Florida Council of 100, a business advisory council to the Governor of Florida.

Mel earned a Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University. He and his wife Betty are survived by three sons, eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.