Juana B. Matias, a former state representative for Lawrence and Methuen, is taking over as Gov. Maura Healey’s housing secretary.
Matias, who served as U.S. Housing and Urban Development regional administrator under President Joe Biden, succeeds Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus. Augustus was named CEO of UniBank, the largest bank based in Central Massachusetts.
“Juana brings with her a deep understanding of housing policy from her time as HUD regional administrator and a longtime commitment to Massachusetts. We’re excited to further our housing agenda and look forward to working with Juana to meet this moment,” said Healey.
Augustus leaves as housing secretary Friday, Feb. 27, and Deputy Secretary Jennifer Maddox will serve as interim secretary until Matias assumes her position April 1.
Matias said in a statement, “We must continue increasing production while preserving affordability, working in partnership with local leaders, developers, advocates and residents across the Commonwealth. I have dedicated my career to serving the people of this state and I’ve seen the transformative impact that pro-growth housing policy can have on communities and economies. Ensuring families have the foundation they need to build their lives in Massachusetts is essential, and I’m ready to get to work.”
Matias, who was born in the Dominican Republic and now lives in Boxford, was elected state representative for the 16th Essex District, representing Lawrence and Methuen, during the 2016 state elections. She chose to run in 2017 for the House congressional seat being vacated by then-Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, but was unsuccessful. Prior to going to Washington, she served as chief operating officer of MassINC and Commonwealth Magazine.