Heather Lomagistro Takes Helm At FAB.

The Florida Association of Broadcasters has named Heather Lomagistro its new President and CEO, effective July 1, succeeding Pat Roberts, who is transitioning to the newly created role of President Emeritus after leading the organization for nearly four decades.

Lomagistro most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, working alongside Roberts as the association represented Florida's radio and television broadcasters on legislative, regulatory and industry issues.

Roberts joined FAB as a consultant in 1987 before becoming president a year later. During his 38-year tenure, he helped transform the organization into one of the country's most influential state broadcasters’ associations, advocating on behalf of broadcasters before state lawmakers, the FCC and emergency management officials. According to FAB, Roberts is the longest-serving president of any state broadcasters’ association in the nation.

"Leading FAB has been the honor of my career, and it is a place I will always champion," Roberts said. "What I'll carry with me isn't any one fight we won — it's the people, the stations, and the communities they serve. Entrusting it to Heather makes this transition an easy one. FAB is in better hands than ever."

As President Emeritus, Roberts will remain with the association in an advisory and advocacy role, providing institutional knowledge and support during the leadership transition.

Lomagistro said she plans to build on the foundation Roberts established while preparing the association for the challenges facing broadcasters.

"FAB is strong because of its people — the best Executive Committee, Board, and staff anywhere," she said. "My focus is on protecting what makes us special, sharpening how we operate, and making sure we are ready for whatever the future of broadcasting brings — with Florida's broadcasters at the center of everything we do."

She also praised Roberts’ legacy, calling him "the steady, fierce voice for Florida's broadcasters" and saying he built an organization that "will outlast us all."

FAB Chairman John Soapes said Roberts' leadership made the association "a best-in-class organization" through his legislative advocacy and commitment to broadcasters. He added that the board has full confidence in Lomagistro's ability to lead the association into its next chapter.

Immediate Past Chairman Lara Kunkler echoed that sentiment, citing Lomagistro's ability to balance day-to-day operational management with long-term strategic leadership as the organization continues serving Florida's radio and television broadcasters.