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Morristown-based thinktank Garden State Initiative announced Thursday the elevation of longtime President Regina Egea to chairman of the board of directors. Current Policy Director Audrey Lane was named her successor, effective immediately.

A former chief of staff for Gov. Chris Christie and longtime AT&T executive, Egea was a driving force behind GSI’s 2017 launch. The organization says it strengthens the Garden State by providing an alternative voice and common-sense policy solutions that promote new investment, job growth, innovation and economic opportunities. The organization “envisions New Jersey reclaiming its position as an economic engine of growth and prosperity.”

Since its launch, GSI has become a leading voice on a host of local economic and fiscal policy issues. Those range from the state budget to its monthly jobs analysis, which is often featured here on NJBIZ.

Egea says it was the right time to evolve the organization.

“I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished over the past six-plus-years in establishing GSI as the undisputed policy thought leader in New Jersey when it comes to promoting common sense ideas to spur investment, innovation, and economic growth,” said Egea in a press release. “Our entire organization – from the board to our research contributors, to our generous donors – has remained true to our mission of not just criticizing what we see as the policy challenges and missed opportunities in Trenton, but also detailing solutions.”

She stressed that GSI believes state government needs to be more efficient and transparent. Additionally, that the state needs to be more affordable and prosperous for residents and businesses.

“As I assume this new role, I will continue to support Audrey and am confident that she is the right person to continue that tradition and more importantly, to expand GSI’s influence,” said Egea.

At a crossroads

Lane has served as policy director since 2022. She brings a slew of experience as a government policy and strategic messaging professional at the municipal and state levels. She also served as an elected councilwoman in her native Mountain Lakes.

“I am honored and humbled that Regina and the Board have afforded me this opportunity and I am eager to build on what Regina has accomplished – and carry forward what she has taught me – during her time as President,” said Lane.

She noted that New Jersey is at an economic and fiscal crossroads.

“Absent a significant shift in policy, we will continue to ‘lead’ the nation in all the wrong categories when it comes to high taxes, wasteful spending, outmigration, and hostility towards businesses and job creators,” said Lane. “As President, I look forward to not just making noise about those challenges, but in the GSI tradition, making a real difference when it comes to solving them.”