Cathy Potler

One of the things I like best about my job is that I get a chance to interact with dozens of public officials who put the lie to negative stereotypes about government workers.  Cathy Potler, the executive director of the New York City Board of Correction who passed away recently, was one such person.  Hard-working, thoughtful, energetic...Cathy embodied the ethic of government service.

I got to know Cathy through my service on the New York City Board of Correction.   Cathy shepherded me around Rikers Island several times over the past couple of years.  I always learned a lot from our conversations -- her knowledge of the facility was truly staggering.  Her knowledge was matched by her commitment to reform.  She was truly committed to helping New York City's jails live up to the highest possible standards -- and to advancing values like common sense, decency, and the rule of law.   She will be missed.