TRENTON, NJ – Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way today announced Department of State Chief of Staff Jasaun “Jay” Boone’s departure. Corey Wolkenberg has been promoted and will serve as the Chief of Staff, effective Monday, July 15th.

“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 was awarded The President’s “E Star” Award for Export Service, the highest honor to organizations that serve exporters. Additionally, Boone helped spearhead the Department’s Division of Travel & Tourism’s VisitNJ.org and ‘Lotta Wow’ marketing campaign, as 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.”

Jay Boone departs the Department to pursue a new professional opportunity.

With a robust background in legislative affairs and leadership, Corey Wolkenberg brings a wealth of experience to this critical role. Wolkenberg has served the Department for more than 5 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 the work of different Divisions, and developed and implemented policies that help make 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 in February 2015, moving up to Legislative Director in January 2017 and eventually becoming his 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. Wolkenberg’s headshot is included below.