Governor Ron DeSantis Reappoints Two to the Commission for Independent Education

TALLAHASSEE, FL - On June 30, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Joseph Battista and Troy Stefano to the Commission for Independent Education. 

Joseph Battista

Battista is the Vice President of Workforce, Career, and Professional Education at Valencia College. He currently serves as a member of the CareerSource Central Florida Board of Directors. Battista earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting and his master’s degree in finance from St. Joseph’s University. 

Troy Stefano, PhD

Stefano is a Professor of Theological Studies at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, President and Founder of Health Copilot AI, Inc., and President of Stefano Consulting. Active in his community, he serves as a member of the American Catholic Philosophical Association, the American Society for Bioethics and Humanities, and the American Public Health Association. Stefano earned his bachelor’s degree in history from St. Thomas University, his master’s degree in theological studies from the University of Notre Dame, and his doctorate from the University of Notre Dame. 

These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.