News

Table of Contents | Return to Main Newsletter Page

The Florida Grantor, Winter 2008

Welcome Florida’s New Leaders

Governor Crist recently announced the appointment of James DeBeaugrine as Director of Florida’s Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), and George Sheldon as Secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). The Able Trust warmly welcomes Director DeBeaugrine and Secretary Sheldon and wishes them the best in their new roles as leaders serving the needs of Florida’s most needy citizens.

James DeBeaugrine
James DeBeaugrine, a Tallahassee native, worked for the Florida House of Representatives and has extensive experience with the programs that serve Floridians with disabilities. Since May of this year, DeBeaugrine has acted as the interim director of APD and served as its deputy director for budget and planning. Jim is committed to increasing access to education, meaningful employment, and quality services for all people with disabilities. He was appointed by Governor Crist as Director of APD in August, 2008.

George Sheldon
George Sheldon, an attorney, previously acted as an interim leader in Tampa before his appointment as Secretary for the Department of Children and Families. Sheldon also served as DCF’s assistant secretary under Bob Butterworth, and worked with General Butterworth in the state Attorney General’s office. Sheldon’s plans at DCF include focusing on abuses cases, food stamps, mental health and drug abuse issues. Sheldon previously worked as an associate dean at St. Thomas University in Miami, was a two-term legislator in the Florida House of Representatives, and earned his law degree from Florida State University.

We welcome both James DeBeaugrine and George Sheldon as partners in the mission to serve Floridians with disabilities.