People from PSF: Meet Deb Nicholson

Welcome to our “People from PSF” interview series! In this series, we introduce the individuals behind the Python Software Foundation, exploring their unique journeys, contributions, and insights. Today, we are excited to feature Deb Nicholson, Executive Director of the PSF.

Let’s get to know Deb better!

Can you tell us a little about yourself? (Your background, hobbies, education, etc.)

I grew up in Maryland, USA, and studied art—specifically painting and sculpting—in Massachusetts. My career path shifted when I became interested in advocacy work, leading me to focus on voter access, civil liberties, marriage equality, and making Massachusetts a livable place for working people and their families.

In 2006, I pivoted toward empowering people through computing, with a focus on data control, personal privacy, and technical education opportunities. My experience includes working with the Free Software Foundation, the Open Invention Network, Software Freedom Conservancy, and the Open Source Initiative.

As a volunteer, I was a founding member of OpenHatch and SeaGL, co-organized the Boston Python Meetup, co-founded MediaGoblin, and currently serve on the board of the Spritely Institute.

In my free time, I still love to draw, sing, cook, and enjoy sci-fi—I’m always happy to talk about sci-fi or cats!

Can you describe your role within the Python Software Foundation and the key responsibilities that come with it?

As Executive Director, my top priority is ensuring the PSF has the resources needed to accomplish its goals. I focus on:
🔹 Budget and funding strategies
🔹 Staffing and operational efficiency—evaluating what we can automate, outsource, or eliminate to improve impact
🔹 Supporting the Python community—identifying areas where the PSF can better serve users and contributors

I also handle tasks that don’t fall under anyone else’s job, including:

  • Responding to tech news and policy proposals

  • Engaging with community members on new ideas and concerns

  • Exploring new funding sources and partnerships

  • Collaborating with other open-source organizations to share knowledge and support each other

What motivated you to get involved with the Python Software Foundation, and how has your journey been since you joined?

I’ve always loved the Python community, ever since I collaborated with the Boston Python Meetup through OpenHatch, which introduced newcomers—especially women—to Python. I kept showing up, and eventually, Ned Batchelder made me a co-organizer.

Meanwhile, I kept taking roles at open-source nonprofits until Executive Director was the only job I hadn’t done. When the PSF Executive Director role opened up, it felt like the perfect time to step up and do more.

In my first year, I met incredible Pythonistas from around the world and was amazed by the welcoming nature of the Python community. The previous Executive Director, Ewa Jodlowska, built so many fantastic initiatives and connections in the global Python ecosystem.

Now, after 2.5 years, it has been rewarding to support newcomers, foster community energy, and strengthen the Python ecosystem.

Can you share a memorable project or initiative you’ve worked on at the PSF that significantly impacted the community?

One of my most significant projects was our work on the Cyber Resilience Act.

The PSF collaborated with other open-source nonprofits to advocate for changes to European legislation that would have negatively impacted community-driven open-source projects like Python.

Thanks to our efforts, legislators adjusted the language in the final version of the bill to better protect open-source communities and public repositories. This success marks the beginning of broader recognition of the unique role open-source communities play in technology.

What advice would you give to individuals looking to contribute to the Python community or get involved with the PSF?

We have many opportunities to get involved, and you don’t need to be a core developer to make an impact!

✅ PyCon US: We need talk reviewers, speakers, and mentors to help with talk proposals! (Submit a talk or volunteer!)
✅ Local Python and PyLadies Meetups: Join a meetup, show up, and ask how you can help.
✅ Contributing to Python projects: If you want to dive into the code side, check out this Real Python guide to start contributing!

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Python is a hugely popular programming language, used by over 8 million people worldwide, but many don’t realize that the PSF—the nonprofit supporting Python—is run by just 13 staff members.

The only reason we can maintain an entire programming language, host a massive multi-day conference, and support a global community is because of the incredible volunteers who dedicate their time to making Python welcoming and accessible.

📌 Connect with Deb:
🔗 GitHub: github.com/eximious
 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/denicholson
 🌍 PSF Website: python.org/psf-landing

Thanks for doing the interview, Deb!