The Florida Holocaust Museum Welcomes Debbie Sokolov as Chief Development Officer

A respected nonprofit leader and second-generation Holocaust Survivor returns to her roots to advance the Museum’s mission of remembrance and education.

St. Petersburg, FL (November 12, 2025) – The Florida Holocaust Museum (The FHM) is proud to announce the appointment of Debbie Sokolov as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO). A respected nonprofit leader with over 25 years of experience in fundraising and organizational development, Sokolov brings a proven record of philanthropic achievement and deep personal connection to The Museum’s mission.

“The Florida Holocaust Museum is entering a pivotal moment of growth and renewal,” said Eric Stillman, President and CEO of The Florida Holocaust Museum. “Debbie’s extensive experience in philanthropy, strategic leadership, and community building, combined with her personal ties to The Museum’s history as a second generation (2G) Holocaust Survivor, make her uniquely qualified to help strengthen our future and expand our financial resource development across Florida and beyond.”

Sokolov’s connection to The Florida Holocaust Museum runs deep. Her parents, Marietta and Ernest Drucker, were Holocaust Survivors and among The Museum’s founding members. They served as volunteer docents and speakers, sharing their stories with thousands of students and visitors. Debbie herself was part of The FHM’s first docent class and was active with the Generations After group.

“I am so honored to return to the place that has meant so much to my family and to me personally,” said Debbie Sokolov. “The Florida Holocaust Museum is more than an institution; it is a living legacy of courage, remembrance, and education. I look forward to advancing its mission and ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust continue to inspire action against hatred and indifference.”

Sokolov joins The FHM from The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, where she served as Deputy Director for Development and Communications and Interim Executive Director. During her tenure, she secured $15 million in endowment gifts, strengthened the museum’s fundraising infrastructure, and fostered a collaborative, mission-driven culture. Previously, she served as Director of Development & Homeless Programs at the St. Petersburg Free Clinic, where she helped raise a transformational gift recognized nationally by the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s Top 50 Donors list.

Debbie is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and has a master’s degree in Nonprofit Administration. She is a past president of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Tampa Bay and a frequent speaker at AFP conferences. She is also a graduate of Leadership St. Petersburg.