Betsy Wollheim

President and Publisher at DAW Books, Inc.

Elizabeth Rosalind "Betsy" Wollheim, born on December 5, 1951, in New York City, is a prominent figure in the publishing industry, known for her leadership at DAW Books, Inc. She serves as the President, co-Publisher, and co-Editor-in-Chief of the company, roles she shares with Sheila E. Gilbert. DAW Books, which she co-founded with her parents in 1971, specializes in science fiction and fantasy literature and has built a reputation for nurturing new talent in these genres.1 4 5

Career Overview

Betsy Wollheim began her career at DAW as an associate editor in 1975 and took over the management of the company in 1985 after her father's passing. Under her leadership, DAW has published numerous award-winning authors, including Patrick Rothfuss and Nnedi Okorafor. In 2022, she sold the company but remains actively involved in its operations.1 3 4

Achievements and Recognition

Wollheim has received several prestigious awards throughout her career:

2012 Hugo Award for Best Professional Editor (Long Form)
2018 World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement
Multiple Chesley Awards for Best Art Director.2 4 5

She is recognized not only for her editorial work but also for her commitment to inclusivity within the genres she publishes. DAW Books is known for its focus on diverse voices and stories.4 6

Personal Life

Betsy Wollheim is married to musician Peter Stampfel. She has also been involved in discussions about her father's legacy and his impact on the LGBTQ+ community, particularly through a documentary titled Casa Susanna, which explores the history of crossdressing in America.1 7

Wollheim's unique background and extensive experience have made her a respected leader in speculative fiction publishing, where she continues to influence the industry significantly.