The West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) convened its third quarterly Board of Directors meeting of 2025, marking continued progress in its mission to empower West Virginians to prevent substance use disorder, support recovery, and save lives.
A notable development from the meeting was the announcement by Chairman Matthew Harvey of his resignation as Chairman of the Board, following his appointment to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. The Board elected Raleigh County Commissioner and current member of the WVFF Board of Directors, Greg Duckworth, to serve as Interim Chair until officer elections at the Foundation’s Annual Meeting in December.
“Serving as Chairman and helping build this Foundation from the ground up has been a true privilege. Together, we established the framework for strong governance, launched our first grant cycle, and set in place a transparent process that will guide the investment of these historic funds for generations of West Virginians. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished, and I have every confidence in Commissioner Duckworth and the Board to carry this mission forward with the same commitment and care,” said Matthew Harvey.
“I am humbled by the Board’s trust and grateful for the opportunity to serve during this important time. Chairman Harvey’s leadership has set a strong example, and I look forward to building on the foundation he helped create. We have real momentum, and I am honored to work alongside my fellow Board members to carry that progress forward for the people of West Virginia,” said Interim Chair Greg Duckworth.
“Chairman Harvey’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the Foundation from its inception to where we are today. His dedication to healing West Virginia from within has set a strong foundation for our future,” said Jonathan Board, Executive Director of WVFF. “On behalf of all of West Virginia, I thank him for his service and wish him well as he embarks on this next chapter.”
Key Updates from the Q3 Board Meeting
- Executive Director’s Report: Executive Director Jonathan Board highlighted the Foundation’s recent successes, including the launch of the new grant cycle, the rollout of a redesigned website to enhance transparency and accessibility, and the continued dedication of the WVFF team in carrying forward the Foundation’s mission. He also welcomed the Foundation’s new Chief Development Officer, Luella Gunter, who brings more than 25 years of philanthropic leadership experience to support WVFF’s long-term sustainability and growth.
- Momentum Initiative Grant (MIG): Grants Committee Chairman Jon Dower provided an update on the $19.2 million MIG cycle. Applications open on September 22, 2025. To support applicants, the Foundation has made a range of resources available on its website (wvfirst.org/mig), including: the full RFA, comprehensive FAQs, step-by-step video tutorial on how to use the new portal, required budget template, and scoring methodology and rubric.
- Expert Panel Confirmations: The Board approved nominees for both the Statewide and Regional Expert Panels. Several regional panelists were elevated to the Statewide Panel, requiring new members to fill regional seats. The next step is confirmation of acceptance by all nominees. Once finalized, WVFF will release a public announcement with the complete list of Expert Panel members.
Looking Ahead
Following the meeting, the Board will participate in the third stop of the Foundation’s Hold the Line tour at Semper Liberi (an Initial Opportunity Grant recipient), continuing its commitment to engaging directly with organizations making an impact on the front lines of prevention, treatment, and recovery.
The Board will reconvene in December 2025 for its Annual Meeting. For more information, visit wvfirst.org.
