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Prior to co-launching Rivers & Roads, Sam served as the executive director of the Kent County Chamber of Commerce. Sam took the reins of the Kent Chamber at the onset of COVID-19 and successfully navigated the organization through the global pandemic–growing revenues and launching new programs. Before the Kent Chamber, Sam was the Economic Development Coordinator with Talbot County Government, a role that allow him to gain further experience in how community strengths can be developed through strategic investments in economic development initiatives and programs. From the re-development of a multi-tenant business center to leading the conceptual development of an aquaculture farm, Shoge learned the importance of adaptation and reuse in community revitalization. Shoge also began his work with small businesses, working individually to help them expand or relocate within Talbot County.
He has served on boards of directors of some of the region’s largest institutions like the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health and the Chesapeake College Foundation and served a term on the Chestertown town council.
Sam is a graduate of Elon University and lives in Chestertown, MD with his wife and two daughters.
With a last name that translates to “welcome home,” it was inevitable that Ross would end up in the hospitality and community development industries. Prior to launching Rivers & Roads, Ross served as the Executive Director of Discover Easton, the tourism and development group for Easton, Maryland. Under Ross’ direction, Discover Easton grew its advertising budget 400 percent, rehabilitated Easton’s standing as an accredited National Main Street community, and established Talbot County’s first Arts & Entertainment District, working directly with the State of Maryland and the Maryland State Arts Council to align tax benefits for artists and supporters of the arts with the areas of town that most needed experiential investment.
In addition to his work at Rivers & Roads, Ross serves as a licensed advisor at SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate, helping his consulting clients see their development projects from concept through execution. He also operates a short-term rental business helping families connect with the places and experiences that make Delmarva special.
Ross sits on the board of directors for Talbot Interfaith Shelter and Chesapeake Music, and is an elected commissioner in the Town of Hillsboro. His wife, Chelsea, is a professional artist and owner of Scrawl, a boutique web and print design firm, whom he lives with in Caroline County with their daughter, dog, and two cats. He is a graduate of Elizabethtown College.
Chris Wheedleton is a consultant at Rivers & Roads, specializing in strategic planning, community engagement, and establishing success metrics. With extensive experience in organizational and community development, fundraising, and action planning, Chris tailors innovative solutions to meet clients’ specific needs. His leadership has driven impactful programs, such as workforce employment solutions for veterans at Easterseals DC MD VA, where he developed initiatives supporting veterans’ transitions to civilian life and secured grants to aid homeless and incarcerated veterans. Chris also played a pivotal role in founding Moving Dorchester Forward, fostering partnerships to advance early education, economic development, and community engagement.
Chris’s career spans leadership roles at Nabisco, Kraft, and Pepsi, as well as executive positions in the education sector. He has successfully led philanthropic campaigns and collaborated with institutions like the University of Maryland and Purdue University to bridge gaps between business and education. A current member of the Dorchester County Public Schools Board, Chris continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to community advancement through innovative and impactful initiatives.
Margaret Knudsen is an accomplished executive director with over a decade of experience driving impact for community organizations and government entities. With a unique blend of finance, operations, marketing, and grant writing expertise, Margaret has a proven track record of identifying organizational gaps and implementing effective solutions for long-term growth. Her tenure at Cambridge Main Street showcased her ability to revitalize organizations.
Her experience spans various roles, including Public Relations Director at HealthCorps, where she secured national press coverage and developed community-focused social media strategies. As a freelance grant writer and content strategist, she continues to support nonprofits and municipalities in securing funding and enhancing their online presence. Margaret’s commitment to mentorship and collaboration remains a cornerstone of her leadership style, making her a valuable asset to any organization seeking transformative growth and impact.
She is a member of the Grant Professionals Association and a former board member of the Rosedale Library Friends in Washington, DC.
Community, economic, and real estate development consulting for the public good.
