Florida: Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Robert “Bob” Asztalos as Director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. ~ TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - In a press conference today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Robert "Bob" Asztalos as the new Director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). Asztalos, who has dedicated his career to serving others, will be taking over the role from outgoing director Barbara Palmer.

Governor DeSantis expressed his confidence in Asztalos, stating that he believes he will work tirelessly to improve the lives of Floridians with unique abilities. Asztalos himself also expressed his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to lead APD.

"I am honored to be appointed by Governor DeSantis to lead the Agency for Persons with Disabilities," said Asztalos. "I look forward to working with APD's dedicated staff and partners to make sure individuals with unique abilities have the opportunities and support they need to thrive."

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Asztalos brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. He has been serving as Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA) since 2021, where he oversaw Florida's eight state veteran nursing homes and one state veterans domiciliary. Prior to that, he served as interim Chief Operating Officer for a veteran-owned medical equipment company and has spent decades in health care policy and advocacy at both the state and federal level.

James Hartsell, Executive Director of FDVA, spoke highly of Asztalos' dedication and passion for serving veterans. "Bob Asztalos has tremendous passion for the veterans of our great free state, and he has my full trust and confidence as a leader," said Hartsell. "Bob's tireless efforts to improve the operations and success of our State Veterans Homes will have a lasting impact for many years to come."

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In addition to his work in health care policy, Asztalos also has a strong background in lobbying and government relations. He has served as Chief Lobbyist for the Florida Health Care Association and Government Relations Consultant for Easter Seals Florida in Tallahassee. In Washington, D.C., he worked for the American Health Care Association, the American Physical Therapy Association, and the law firm Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering.

Asztalos' military service is also worth noting. He is a Navy and Navy Reserve veteran with 29 years of service and has also served 17 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees from George Washington University and serves on several boards, including the Florida Veterans Foundation, Fleet Reserve Association Branch 34, Ladies Learning to Lead, and the Pines of Sarasota Rehabilitation & Senior Care Community.

With his extensive experience and dedication to serving others, Asztalos is well-equipped to lead APD and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with unique abilities in Florida. His appointment has been met with praise from both Governor DeSantis and his colleagues in the veterans' community.

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