Crownsville, MD – Rivers & Roads Consulting is pleased to announce that Sam Shoge, Partner at the firm, has been appointed to the Maryland Heritage Areas Program (MHAA) Grant Review Panel. In this role, Shoge will support the State’s efforts to advance heritage tourism and preservation by reviewing and evaluating competitive grant applications submitted by organizations across Maryland.
Administered by the Maryland Historical Trust and governed by the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, MHAA provides more than $5 million in grant funding annually for capital and non-capital projects that preserve and promote Maryland’s historic, cultural, and natural heritage. Panelists are selected for their diverse expertise and are responsible for reviewing and scoring up to 25 applications each year, participating in discussions, and helping shape funding recommendations to the Authority.
Shoge’s appointment reflects his longstanding commitment to community development and historic preservation. With a background in economic development, government affairs, and real estate advisory, Shoge brings a pragmatic and community-rooted perspective to the review process. “Maryland’s heritage areas are key to sustaining our cultural identity and growing place-based economies,” said Shoge. “I’m honored to contribute to this work and to support projects that preserve what makes our communities distinct.”
The Grant Review Panel seeks to ensure that funded projects meet a broad range of goals, including promoting inclusive narratives, enhancing accessibility, strengthening local partnerships, and preserving regional identity. The panel’s review process aligns with MHAA’s mission to create more livable and economically sustainable communities through heritage tourism.
Panelists serve a three-year term and represent a wide range of professional and geographic backgrounds. In joining the panel, Shoge adds to Rivers & Roads’ growing influence in heritage-based economic development and reaffirms the firm’s commitment to supporting mission-driven initiatives across Maryland.
For more information on the Maryland Heritage Areas Program, visit https://mht.maryland.gov/heritageareas.shtml.
Interested in working with a team that understands how to bridge heritage, community, and economic development?
At Rivers & Roads Consulting, we help organizations unlock the potential of place-based strategies—through planning, engagement, and execution. Whether you’re seeking grant funding, launching a revitalization effort, or looking to strengthen your community’s cultural assets, we’re ready to help. Contact us to learn how we can support your goals.
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