Lonna Hooks facts for kids

Lonna Hooks is an important person who used to work for the state of New Jersey. She was the Secretary of State of New Jersey for four years. This means she had a big job in the government, helping the state run smoothly. She worked closely with the former New Jersey Governor, Christine Todd Whitman. Governor Whitman even called Ms. Hooks her "business ombudsman," which means Lonna Hooks helped businesses in New Jersey deal with the government.

Who is Lonna Hooks?

Lonna Hooks held a very important position in the New Jersey state government. As Secretary of State, she was in charge of many official things. This included keeping important state records and overseeing elections. She was a key member of Governor Whitman's "Cabinet." A Cabinet is a group of top advisors who help the governor make decisions for the state.

Her Early Career

Before becoming Secretary of State, Lonna Hooks had a busy career. She worked as an attorney, which is another word for a lawyer, at a company called Schering-Plough. She also worked for Governor Whitman before her big appointment. Ms. Hooks was the chief of staff at the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. A chief of staff is like a main assistant who helps manage an office and supports a leader. The Board of Public Utilities is a government group that helps manage services like electricity, gas, and water for the public. In December 1993, Governor Whitman announced that she wanted Lonna Hooks to become the Secretary of State.

Education and Home

Lonna Hooks studied at Howard University, which is a famous university. She also went to law school there, at the Howard University School of Law. She has lived in Montclair, New Jersey.