Governor Ron DeSantis appoints Robert “Bob” Asztalos to lead the Agency for Persons with Disabilities in Florida
Tallahassee, Florida – In a move highlighting his administration’s ongoing commitment to supporting Floridians with unique needs, Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Robert “Bob” Asztalos as the new Director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).
Asztalos brings with him a long and accomplished career in public service, healthcare policy, and veterans’ advocacy. His appointment was formally announced earlier this week, and he will now take the lead in an agency tasked with providing critical services to thousands of individuals with disabilities across the state.
“Bob has dedicated his career to serving others, including his leadership at the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I’m confident he will work hard to improve the lives of Floridians with unique abilities.”
Asztalos responded with appreciation for the appointment, expressing both pride and determination to take on this new role.
“I am honored to be appointed by Governor DeSantis to lead the Agency for Persons with Disabilities,” said Robert “Bob” 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.”
Asztalos is no stranger to high-impact leadership roles in Florida. Since 2021, he has served as Deputy Executive Director at the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA), where he oversaw operations at eight state-run veteran nursing homes and a veterans domiciliary. His tenure was marked by a focus on enhancing the care and dignity of Florida’s veteran population.
Prior to his work at the FDVA, Asztalos spent time as interim Chief Operating Officer for a veteran-owned medical equipment company and has held several important roles in healthcare policy and lobbying. His work spans both Florida and Washington, D.C., including key positions with the Florida Health Care Association, Easter Seals Florida, the American Health Care Association, and the American Physical Therapy Association.
His former colleague and current Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, James Hartsell, offered strong praise for Asztalos’ service and leadership.
“Bob Asztalos has tremendous passion for the veterans of our great free state, and he has my full trust and confidence as a leader,” Hartsell said. “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. I wish Bob fair winds and following seas in his new role.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Asztalos has served in the United States Navy and Navy Reserve for a combined 29 years, and he spent 17 years as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from George Washington University.
He is also deeply engaged in nonprofit and civic work, serving on a number of boards, including the Florida Veterans Foundation, Fleet Reserve Association Branch 34, Ladies Learning to Lead, and the Pines of Sarasota Rehabilitation & Senior Care Community.
As he begins his work at the APD, Asztalos is expected to focus on expanding services, improving accessibility, and enhancing support systems for individuals with disabilities throughout the state. His extensive background in policy, veteran care, and health services positions him to bring a well-rounded and results-driven approach to his new role.
His appointment comes at a time when many in Florida’s disability community are advocating for more comprehensive and individualized support programs. Asztalos has indicated that listening to families and working closely with APD’s partners will be central to his leadership philosophy.
With years of dedication to public service, a strong track record in leadership, and a clear vision for the future, Bob Asztalos is set to play a key role in shaping Florida’s approach to supporting individuals with disabilities under the DeSantis administration.
