Shelley, and her husband Bill have been Sanibel residents for 15 years. In August of 2023, Shelley was appointed to the Sanibel Library Board of Commissioners to fill a vacancy.

Shelley completed her undergraduate studies at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania and her graduate and post graduate studies at the University of Cincinnati. She worked as a school psychologist in Cincinnati and was an adjunct professor at Florida SouthWestern State College teaching psychology and education.

Shelley is a dedicated community volunteer and has served in many roles for local nonprofits. She is currently a Board Member of Community Housing and Resources, a former Board Member of SCCF, Lee County Schools volunteer, and contributed a weekly column to The Island Sun for many years.