Betsy Gotbaum is the current New York Public Advocate. She assumed office in 2001, and was re-elected on September 13, 2005.

1. 1970s: First became involved in civic affairs
2. 1980s: Served as the Executive Director for the New York Police Foundation
3. 1990: Began serving as New York City Parks Commissioner
4. 2001: Launched her campaign to become public advocate
5. September 13, 2005: Re-elected

• • Teacher
  • Staff, John Lindsay's office
  • Executive Director, New York Police Foundation
  • New York City Parks Commissioner
  • President, New-York Historical Society
  • Public Advocate, New York City

On September 28, 2007, Gotbaum's daughter-in-law, Carol Ann Gotbaum, died while in TSA custody at Phoenix Sky Harbor airport after she was arrested for disorderly conduct. Authorities believe she may have accidentally strangled herself while trying to escape her handcuffs.CNN: Woman may have accidentally killed herself after airport bust