Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs

Esther Chucaralao 

Esther ChucaraIao serves as the Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs for the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs, where she previously held the role of Director of Veterans Services. In her current position, she leads statewide efforts to deliver comprehensive services and support to veterans and their families.

With more than 12 years of experience serving the veteran community, Mrs. ChucaraIao oversees the daily operations of New Jersey’s network of Veterans Service Officers across all 21 counties. She is also responsible for the operations of the state’s three Veterans Memorial Homes, Veterans Haven North and South transitional housing programs, the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, New Jersey’s three War Memorials, and the State Approving Agency.

As Director of Veterans Services, she established a strong track record of developing and expanding programs that connect veterans to critical benefits, healthcare, and educational opportunities throughout New Jersey.

Prior to joining the Department, Mrs. ChucaraIao served as a Case Manager with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, where she developed, implemented, and monitored individualized service plans in collaboration with families. She also served as an in-home therapist, providing direct therapeutic services.

Mrs. ChucaraIao holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Excelsior College and a master’s degree in Psychology from Felician University. She is a licensed professional counselor (LPC).

A proud United States Navy veteran, Mrs. ChucaraIao served from 2003 to 2010 as a personnel specialist. Her creativity, leadership, and dedication have contributed to the development of numerous programs and services that continue to benefit New Jersey’s veterans and their families.