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Annapolis, MD (April 28, 2023)-Secretary Carol A. Beatty today announced the appointment of Lisa Belcastro as the new Deputy Secretary of Maryland Department of Disabilities. Her first day will be May 31, 2023.
"We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Belcastro to the Department of Disabilities," said Secretary Beatty. "Her experience, leadership and deep commitment to public service make her an excellent candidate to serve as the deputy secretary of our agency."
Ms. Belcastro has more than 15 years of combined experience working in government, education, and program development on behalf of the disability community. As a special educator, she became known for her out-of-the-box and unique solutions to ensure her students could access the curriculum. Her methods and work were recently promoted by the U.S. Department of State and the Center for Sport, Peace, and Society, in an effort to create more inclusive opportunities globally.
As a member of the House of Delegates, Belcastro served on the Health and Government Operations Committee and sponsored legislation to increase accessibility at recess for students with disabilities. Other major legislative accomplishments include passing legislation on Alzheimer’s care and suicide prevention activities.
In her new role as deputy secretary, Ms. Belcastro will work collaboratively with the Governor Moore's administration to further promote equity, inclusion and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
“I feel deeply privileged by the opportunity to serve as the next Deputy Secretary of the Maryland Department of Disabilities,” said Ms. Belcastro. “I look forward to joining the wonderful team at the department and working to ensure that individuals with disabilities have their voices heard, their rights protected and their access to essential services enhanced.”
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For press coverage, contact Kim McKay at 410-767-3654, email: kimberly.mckay1@maryland.gov.
About the Maryland Department of Disabilities: The Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD) is charged with coordinating and improving the delivery of services to individuals with disabilities in the state of Maryland. By working collaboratively with all State government agencies, MDOD provides advocacy and guidance to ensure that State entities deliver services in the most integrated settings possible, develop consistent policies affecting those with disabilities, and consider the diverse needs of all when making decisions which impact Marylanders.
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