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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.
Community, economic, and real estate development
consulting for the public good.
