TALHASSEE, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed Robert “Bob” Ashtalos as the new director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), selecting longtime veteran advocates and health policy experts to lead the state agency.
“Bob has dedicated his career to serving others, including his leadership with the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs,” DeSantis said. “I am confident he will work hard to improve the lives of Floridians with unique abilities.”
Astaroth, who has been the assistant executive director of the Florida Veterans Affairs Bureau (FDVA) since 2021, said he is honored to embrace his new role.
“We look forward to working with APD’s dedicated staff and partners to ensure the opportunities and support that uniquely abilities individuals need to thrive,” he said.
During the FDVA, Asztalos oversaw eight state-run veteran care facilities in Florida and a state residency for veterans. His background includes serving as interim chief operating officer for a veteran-owned medical device company and spending decades in state and federal health policy and advocacy roles.
James Hartsell, executive director of the FDVA, praised Ashtalus for his leadership and impact on the state’s veterans program.
“Bob’s tireless efforts to improve the operation and success of the state’s veteran housing will have lasting impacts for years to come,” Hartsell said. “He has my complete trust and confidence as a leader.”
In Tallahassee, Ashtalos previously served as Chief Lobbyist for the Florida Healthcare Association and as a government relations consultant for Easter Seals Florida. In Washington, DC, his experiences include the roles of the American Medical Association, the American Physiotherapy Association, and the law firm Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering.
Asztalos, a veteran of the US Navy and Navy Reserve with 29 years of service, spent 17 years aided by the US Coast Guard. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from George Washington University and serves on several nonprofit organizations and veteran-related boards, including the Florida Veterans Foundation, Free Reserve Association Chapter 34, and women learning to lead women.
