Tallahassee, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced the appointments of Jessica Costello and Forough Hosseini to the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet.

“I’m pleased to appoint Jessica Costello and Forough Hosseini to the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet, as I am confident they will faithfully serve our state’s youth to the best of their ability,” said Governor DeSantis. “As the future leaders of our state and country, our children are our greatest resource and I look forward to the contributions these appointees will bring to the Cabinet under the First Lady’s leadership.”

“As Chair of the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet, I welcome these wonderful women and cannot wait to discuss new ideas with them on how to serve and create a meaningful impact for the future of our children and families,” said First Lady DeSantis. “I’d also like to thank Chief Justice Charles Canady for his appointment of Justice Robert Luck to the Cabinet. I have gotten to know Justice Luck over the past few months and I am confident he will be a strong advocate for our youth. I am ready to work with these outstanding individuals to ensure the children of Florida continue to lead safe, healthy and happy lives.”

Jessica Costello

Costello, of Tampa, is the County Court Judge for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit. She served as a state prosecutor from 2014-2019. Costello was a member of both the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and International Association of Human Trafficking Investigators for two years. Additionally, she has been an active volunteer with Academy Prep Center of Tampa since 2011 and John G. Germany’s Read to Dream organization since 2016. Costello earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her juris doctorate from the Florida State University College of Law. Costello is appointed to a four-year term.

Forough Hosseini

Hosseini, of Ormond Beach, is the Executive Vice President for ICI Homes. She is the founder and chair of Food Brings Hope, which provides assistance for homeless and economically disadvantaged students. She has previously served on Daytona State College District Board of Trustees. Hosseini earned her bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and her master’s degree from the University of Central Florida. Hosseini is appointed to a four-year term.

The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

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