Corey Wolkenberg will succeed Jay Boone as the chief of staff for Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way in her capacity as secretary of state for New Jersey, the Lieutenant Governor’s Office announced Monday.
Boone, who is departing to pursue a new professional opportunity, was praised by Way.
“Since January 2018, Jay has led the Department (of State) through numerous challenges and milestones, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to serving the people of New Jersey,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for his years of service.”
During Boone’s tenure, he oversaw the New Jersey Business Action Center 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 prepandemic 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,” he said. “It’s been a delightful six-and-a-half years serving in my capacity, and I commend Lt. Gov. Way for now passing the baton to Corey. I have full confidence in his ability to excel in his new role.”
Wolkenberg, with a robust background in legislative affairs and leadership, brings a wealth of experience to the role, Way said.
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 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,” Way said.
Wolkenberg said he is eager for the opportunity.
“I am deeply grateful for Jay’s confidence in me and thank Lt. Gov. Way for entrusting me with this role,” he said. “I look forward to what we’ll accomplish together over these next 18 months.”
Sam Parker continues to serve as chief of staff for Way in her capacity as lieutenant governor.
