CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Erica Boggess, Executive Director of the West Virginia Housing Development Fund (WVHDF), has announced her retirement, effective January 2, 2025. With nearly 40 years of service to the agency, Boggess leaves behind a legacy of dedication to providing affordable housing for West Virginians.
Boggess began her career with the WVHDF in the mid-1980s as an Assistant Controller in the Accounting Department. Over the years, she ascended through various leadership roles, serving as Deputy Director from 2005 to 2012 before being named Acting Executive Director. In 2017, Governor Jim Justice appointed her as Executive Director, recognizing her deep expertise and commitment to the organization.
Reflecting on her tenure, Boggess expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve:
“It has been my privilege to serve the people of West Virginia and work alongside an incredible team at WVHDF. Together, we have made significant strides in providing safe, decent, affordable housing to all West Virginians. While I look forward to the next chapter, I will always cherish the relationships and accomplishments that have been part of this journey.”
Under her leadership, the WVHDF accomplished numerous milestones, including issuing hundreds of millions of dollars in bonds to expand the Single-Family Lending Program, creating and leveraging funding streams for multifamily housing developments, and implementing two COVID-19 relief programs to assist renters and homeowners during the pandemic. Boggess also spearheaded operational improvements that positioned the Fund as a model of success among state housing finance agencies.
Nathan Testman, the current Deputy Director of Production, will serve as Interim Executive Director following Boggess’s departure. Testman, who joined the Fund in 2016, has played a key role in growing investments in affordable housing by fostering partnerships with developers, financial institutions, and community stakeholders. He was promoted to Deputy Director of Production in 2023 after serving as Senior Division Manager of Multifamily.
Boggess expressed confidence in Testman’s ability to lead the organization:
“Nate has done a tremendous job not only leading our Multifamily department but also becoming more familiar with other parts of the agency. Although it is difficult for me to leave this work I love, I am confident I’m leaving the future of the West Virginia Housing Development Fund in good hands.”
The WVHDF will continue working closely with the Governor’s Office and Governor-Elect Patrick Morrisey’s team to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
Boggess’s retirement marks the end of a distinguished career characterized by innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to West Virginia’s housing needs. Her impact will be felt for years to come.
