Jill Casey DeSantis, formerly known as Jill Casey Black, was born on June 26, 1980, in Zanesville, Ohio. She is an American former news journalist and television show host, currently serving as the first lady of Florida as the wife of Governor Ron DeSantis.
Jill Casey Black is the second child of Robert Black, an optometrist and former United States Air Force officer, and Jeanne Caponigro, a speech-language pathologist with Sicilian roots. She attended the College of Charleston, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics with a minor in French.
In the early stages of her career, Jill Casey DeSantis hosted golf programs such as “On The Tee” and “PGA Tour Today” on the Golf Channel. She also worked as a local newscaster and anchor for WJXT in Jacksonville, Florida, holding various positions including general assignment reporter, morning anchor, and police reporter. She gained recognition as the creator-moderator of “The Chat,” a round table panel discussion talk show that aired on Tegna’s Jacksonville stations, WTLV (NBC) and WJXX (ABC). Additionally, she hosted the daily local talk show “First Coast Living” and the weekly program “The American Dream” focused on entrepreneurs. Jill Casey DeSantis wrote and produced the television documentary “Champion: The JT Townsend Story” which centered around high school football player J.T. Townsend. She also received a regional Suncoast Emmy Award.
As the first lady of Florida, Jill Casey DeSantis has been actively involved in various initiatives. She established the First Lady’s Medal for Courage, Commitment, and Service in February 2019. She has also been engaged in promoting Florida’s Black History Month theme and honoring individuals through student contests and the Excellence in Education Award. Jill Casey DeSantis has participated in events addressing issues such as red tide and has hosted listening sessions on topics including Venezuela, hurricane relief, and mental health. In August 2019, she served as the chair of the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet during its first meeting.
Jill Casey DeSantis plays a significant role in her husband’s 2024 presidential campaign as an advisor. She met Ron DeSantis while he was a naval officer stationed at Naval Station Mayport, and they got married on September 26, 2009, at Walt Disney World Resort. They have three children together, including two daughters and a son.
In October 2021, it was announced that Jill Casey DeSantis had been diagnosed with breast cancer. However, she announced in March 2022 that she was cancer-free. Like her husband, she practices the Roman Catholic faith.
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Casey DeSantis – Ethnicity and Parents’ Nationality
Casey DeSantis, the wife of Governor Ron DeSantis, was born Jill Casey Black in Zanesville, Ohio. Her father, Robert Black, is an optometrist and former United States Air Force officer, while her mother, Jeanne Caponigro, is a speech-language pathologist. It is known that Casey DeSantis’ mother has Sicilian roots, suggesting an Italian heritage.
Casey DeSantis – Education
Casey DeSantis attended the College of Charleston, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics with a minor in French.
Casey DeSantis – Height
She is 5 feet 6 inches tall or 167 centimeters tall.
Casey DeSantis – Net Worth
Her net worth is $2 million (estimated)
Contributions made by Casey DeSantis for Florida
Casey DeSantis has made several contributions in her role as the First Lady of Florida. Some of her notable contributions include:
- First Lady’s Medal: In February 2019, Casey DeSantis established the First Lady’s Medal for Courage, Commitment, and Service. This medal aims to recognize individuals who have shown exceptional bravery, dedication, and service to their communities.
- Black History Month: Casey DeSantis played a role in honoring Florida’s Black History Month. She announced the 2019 theme as “Celebrating Public Service” and hosted events at the Governor’s Mansion to honor winners of student contests and Excellence in Education Award recipients.
- Environmental Initiatives: DeSantis participated in a Recovery Redfish Release event to address the impacts of red tide, emphasizing the importance of clean water for the well-being of families, visitors, and the economy of Florida.
- Listening Sessions: Casey DeSantis has organized listening sessions on various topics, including Venezuela, hurricane relief efforts, and mental health. These sessions provide an opportunity for dialogue and understanding on important issues affecting the state.
- Chairing the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet: In August 2019, DeSantis presided over the first meeting of the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet as its chair. This cabinet focuses on addressing the needs and well-being of children and youth in the state.
- Donations – Casey DeSantis made a significant contribution by announcing that the Florida Disaster Fund had received donations exceeding $60 million. These funds were intended to support the recovery efforts in communities affected by Hurricane Ian, demonstrating her commitment to assisting those in need during times of crisis.
Casey DeSantis