Deborah Marshall
Chief Executive Officer, American Fundraising Foundation (AmFund)
Deborah was born in Tyler, Texas in the shadow of Debutants, Rose Queens and Football Cheerleaders -- a long way from where her careers took her to Dallas, New York, Washington, DC and now Florida.
Often asked to speak to both small and large groups, Deborah weaves into her stories the circuitous and sometimes painful path she took to find herself right where God intended her to be.
Deborah has a special way of connecting with her audience, creating an “us” feeling
rather than a superficial persona on a stage. It’s that connection that reveals the depth
of her struggles as well as the victory of walking in freedom when we allow God to be
the guide of our lives. The rich stories and often the use of props are a hallmark of
Deborah’s speaking style. Each presentation is geared for its audience and brings into
focus some specific points that allow the attendees to leave with memorable and
actionable steps.
Deborah “earned her stripes” in Corporate America in the often-fluctuating world of for-
profits. She moved from the creative scene of Hollywood’s cinematic productions--
where she was named one of the leading creators of the “Who Shot JR” advertising
campaign for Panavision to the highly competitive world of real estate redevelopment.
She was the executive in charge of strategic development and daily management of
several mega projects.
The switch to not for profit organizations, specifically healthcare, was an eye opener for
her, but one that she tackled with all the panache she normally brings to her projects.
She was a key leader and negotiator in bringing stakeholders together for a landmark
joint venture between a public hospital system and a large Catholic healthcare system.
In a first ever ruling in the nation, the Ethical and Religious Directives of the Catholic
healthcare system were upheld for their facilities by the state of New York so that both
parties (public and private) remained “winners” in the merger. The combined system is
now thriving beyond projections and expectations.
Deborah is the Chief Executive Officer of the American Fundraising Foundation (AmFund) and President of the American Fundraising Educational Foundation, a Federally recognized 501(c)3 organization with national headquarters in Maitland, Florida. AmFund supports over 800 nonprofit organizations nationally and is known by its tagline: “We Fund Your Cause”, raising more than $67 million for worthy causes. She is an expert in strategic initiatives and is an exceptional leader with over 30 years’ experience in national and international arenas.
Deborah knows firsthand the challenges nonprofit organizations face in the ever-
changing climate of grant cycles and funding shortages and was recognized in 2020 as
the Fundraiser of the Year by Nonprofit Pro. As the world of nonprofits found
themselves having to pivot to virtual events in 2020, Deborah brought educational
programs, new digital platforms, and production tools to organizations across the
country, allowing them to thrive in an environment of change. Her disciplined and
logical approach to managing any situation-- combined with her business acumen and
passion for success-- provide a firm foundation for AmFund’s phenomenal growth in
helping hundreds of deserving nonprofits nationwide.
Deborah was a contributing writer to The American Cinematographer, an international
trade publication; recipient of several awards including Woman of the Year, Community
Crown Award, New York State Supporter of the Arts, and received special recognition
by the Washington Press Club for outstanding service in the field of Public Relations.
She was recognized in 2024 with the International Legacy Award by the Modern
Widows Club. She has been a Mistress of Ceremonies for many celebrity events
including the 91st Birthday of Helen Hayes. Deborah continues to be a noted
motivational, inspiring speaker and exceptional facilitator. She enjoys speaking to
diverse groups on a wide range of topics.