October 29, 2026
Lake George, NY (October 29, 2026) – The Lake George Association (LGA) has appointed Nicholle L. Gotham as its first-ever Director of Government Relations, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s 141-year history and a major investment in expanding its advocacy efforts to ensure the enduring protection of Lake George’s world-renowned water quality and clarity.
This newly created position advances the LGA’s 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes translating scientific research into meaningful policy and legislative action. Working alongside Lake George Waterkeeper Chris Navitsky, Gotham will strengthen the LGA’s government relations efforts and engagement with state lawmakers, agencies and policymakers on issues affecting Lake George and freshwater protection across New York State.
“I am excited to have Nicholle working with us to protect Lake George and the freshwaters of New York State,” said Lake George Waterkeeper Chris Navitsky. “Nicholle's passion for advocating for the environment shines through strongly in her experience and every conversation with her. Nicholle’s knowledge of Albany and its processes will be valuable for the long-term protection of Lake George.”
Gotham brings extensive experience in state government, environmental policy and budget negotiations. Most recently, she served as an Analyst with the New York State Senate Finance Committee, where she managed a legislative portfolio spanning environmental conservation, energy, agriculture, parks and the arts. She advised Senators on the fiscal implications of legislation and played an active role in developing and negotiating the New York State Budget.
Her legislative work addressed environmental and public health priorities including harmful algal blooms, invasive species, emerging contaminants, clean energy and climate change. She also advocated for significant investments in water and environmental protection, including funding through the Clean Water Infrastructure Act, a new private well testing program, a $50 million expansion of the Environmental Protection Fund over two years and $2 billion for the Sustainable Future Program.
“We are so grateful to have Nicholle join the LGA team,” said LGA President and CEO Dr. Brendan Wiltse. “Lake George deserves a strong voice in Albany to ensure our communities working tirelessly to protect the Lake have the resources they need and a voice at the table.”
Before her time in Albany, Gotham held positions with the Adirondack Council and North Country Public Radio, reflecting her longstanding connections to the Adirondack region. She earned a bachelor’s degree in rhetoric and communications from St. Lawrence University and previously served on the Lake George Land Conservancy’s Next Gen Committee. Outside of her professional work, she coaches with Girls on the Run.
“It is an incredible honor to step into the new Director of Government Relations role with the Lake George Association. As a North Country native, I’m thrilled to be working on behalf of a region near and dear to my heart,” said LGA Director of Government Relations Nicholle Gotham. “Excited doesn’t quite cover how I feel to be working with the oldest lake conservation organization in the nation to bring our science-to-solutions protection strategy to Albany. I’m looking forward to advocating for not just Lake George, but for freshwater protection across New York State.”
Prior to the State’s 249th session commencing in January 2027, Gotham will be working closely with LGA leadership to establish clear legislative goals for the LGA in the years ahead. Connect with Nicholle by emailing [email protected].
About the Lake George Association (LGA)
Founded in 1885 as the nation’s first lake conservation organization, the LGA represents thousands of constituents as one unified voice speaking for the protection of the Queen of American Lakes. Through science, solutions, community mobilization, strategic partnerships and advocacy, the LGA leads a Continuous Cycle of Lake Protection that safeguards Lake George’s water quality and clarity, forever. Together as a community, we are the Voice of Lake George. Learn more: https://lakegeorgeassociation.org.
