Deborah has more than 30 years of experience in small business, corporate and non-profit management. Deborah has achieved several historic firsts for the city of St. Petersburg, including her election as the first African American Council member to represent District 5 in 2019; a decisive re-election with one of the widest margins of victory on record in 2014; and unanimous election to serve as the 2024 city council chair. Deborah’s leadership roles include service on a number of boards and advisory councils, as well as officer positions with civic and community organizations. She has been the recipient of several distinguished awards. She recently celebrated 25 years of marriage to her husband Daniel) and is a mother of three sons, and grandmother of four. Deborah is a graduate of St. Petersburg Junior College, Florida A&M University and earned a M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix.