Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way today announced the departure of Department of State Chief of Staff Jasaun “Jay” Boone. Corey Wolkenberg has been promoted to serve as the new Chief of Staff, effective Monday, July 15.
“Since January 2018, Jay has led the Department through numerous challenges and milestones demonstrating an unwavering commitment to serving the people of New Jersey. I am deeply grateful for his years of service,” said Lieutenant Governor Way.
During Boone’s tenure, he oversaw the New Jersey Business Action Center (NJBAC) and its Office of Export Promotion, which recently received The President’s “E Star” Award for Export Service, the highest honor for organizations that serve exporters. Additionally, Boone helped spearhead the Department’s Division of Travel & Tourism’s VisitNJ.org and ‘Lotta Wow’ marketing campaign. Visitation volume and total expenditures within the 2023 tourism cycle surpassed 2019 pre-pandemic levels, propelling visitor spending to $49.1 billion.
“Serving as Chief of Staff has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career,” said Jasaun Boone. “It’s been a delightful six and a half years serving in my capacity, and I commend Lieutenant Governor Way for now passing the baton to Corey. I have full confidence in his ability to excel in his new role.”
Boone departs the Department to pursue a new professional opportunity.
Corey Wolkenberg brings a robust background in legislative affairs and leadership to this critical role. Wolkenberg has served the Department for more than five years, beginning as Director of Legislative Affairs in March 2019 before his promotion to Deputy Chief of Staff in June 2021. Since his arrival, he has closely collaborated with senior leadership, supported different Divisions’ work, and developed policies aimed at making New Jersey a better place to live, work, and explore.
“Corey’s commitment to fostering collaboration and communication makes him the ideal leader for stepping into this new position. I look forward to working closely with him to advance the Department’s mission,” stated Lieutenant Governor Way.
Before joining the Department, Corey was a Legislative Aide for Assemblyman Mukherji starting in February 2015. He moved up to Legislative Director in January 2017 and eventually became Mukherji’s Chief of Staff in January 2018.
“I am deeply grateful for Jay’s confidence in me and thank Lieutenant Governor Way for entrusting me with this role,” said Corey Wolkenberg. “I look forward to what we’ll accomplish together over these next 18 months.”
Corey Wolkenberg holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arizona.
