Why Statewide Leadership Matters for Community Investment
MCIC’s leadership structure includes a cadre of diverse, cross sector, statewide leaders.
At the Maryland Community Investment Corporation (“MCIC”), we are building more than a financing platform. We are transforming Maryland’s development finance marketplace.
Our inaugural strategic plan is grounded in a clear reality: access to community development capital has not been evenly distributed across Maryland. Programs like the New Markets Tax Credit (“NMTC”) have supported important projects, but too often, those investments have been concentrated in a limited number of places, leaving many communities without the resources needed to grow and thrive.
Addressing that imbalance requires more than capital. It requires perspective.
That is why MCIC is intentionally expanding its governance structure to include the following statewide experts on our board committees.
Elizabeth Stahlman , Tri-County Council for Western Maryland
Sam Shoge, Rivers & Roads Consulting
Hans Riemer, Trajectory Energy Partners
Molly R. Bryson, Ballard Spahr LLP
Jeff Ratnow, Site-Insight
Seth Whetzel, Capital Impact Partners
This approach builds on the firm foundation already in place on our board. We are especially grateful for the leadership of Tracy Evans of Baltimore Community Lending and Tifani Fisher of the Allegany County NAACP, who bring critical expertise and perspective to MCIC’s work. Their contributions reflect the kind of grounded, community-informed leadership that is essential to advancing community investment across the state.
As we grow, our goal is simple: every region of Maryland should be competitive for community development capital. That means aligning strategy with lived experience, and pairing financial tools with the voices of those closest to the work.
We are continuing to build this statewide network of leaders and partners.
If you are interested in getting involved, particularly if you are based in Mountain Maryland or the Eastern Shore, we encourage you to reach out. Please email communityadvisory@mdcommunityinvestment.com to learn more about opportunities to engage.
Inclusive growth doesn’t happen by accident. It is built through intentional collaboration, informed leadership, and a commitment to ensuring that every community has a seat at the table.