Meet our Board of Directors

Dr. Shellie M. Bowman, Sr. is a distinguished Doctor of Public Administration with a Master of Law, a Master of Science in Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Management. A disabled veteran of the U.S. Navy, Shellie brings extensive leadership experience to his community work. He serves on two community boards and as a political campaign treasurer.

As the leader of the Central Commonwealth Black Caucus (CCBC), Shellie is committed to building a more just and equitable society for Black residents in central Virginia by collaborating with local communities, stakeholders, and leaders to drive lasting change. He holds certifications as a Certified Business Relationship Manager, Professional Coach (ICF Certified), and Certified Information Privacy Professional.

Michael Bush is an energetic leader with a deep commitment to service and advocacy within his community. He graduated in 2022 from Christopher Newport University with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Michael is a licensed wealth advisor, financial planner, and life insurance agent, and holds the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS) designation.

In his role with the Central Commonwealth Black Caucus (CCBC), Michael is focused on connecting communities and improving the economic conditions of the populations served. He envisions promoting the equitable redistribution of power and wealth, returning these resources to the people. Michael’s leadership experience includes his successful management of a grassroots board of supervisors campaign in the central commonwealth region in 2023, where he raised over $17,000 and received more than 2,900 votes in just six months.

Michael’s blend of financial expertise and civic engagement supports CCBC’s mission of fostering sustainable and positive community change.

Shirley Taylor-Davis is a member of the board of directors for the Central Commonwealth Black Caucus (CCBC). With 28 years of innovative experience in education, she is committed to the well-being, emotional, social, and cognitive development of all students. Shirley earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with a concentration in Childhood and Adolescent Development, from Southern New Hampshire University, as well as a Masters of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction, focusing on Dyslexia and other Language-Based Disorders.

During her time at Southern New Hampshire University, Shirley demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and strong leadership, earning induction into the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success, Sigma Alpha Pi. She is an active member of the National Council for Exceptional Children and serves as the Basileus of the Alpha Sigma chapter of Lambda Kappa Mu Sorority Inc. in Fredericksburg, VA. Shirley is also an engaged member of the NACCP, serving on the Intake Membership Committee and the Freedom Fund Committee for the City of Fredericksburg Chapter.

Shirley’s passion for community service and political activism is central to her work with the CCBC. Her role encompasses addressing societal issues, creating environments where individuals become lifelong learners, and helping nonprofit and corporate organizations streamline processes for increased productivity and positive community engagement.

MOTTO: “Education is the key to unknown possibilities and outcomes.”

Nicole DiPaolo McCloskey is a dedicated education advocate with a passion for fostering civic engagement and empowering young minds. Holding a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in History, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Her commitment to education is evident in her diverse teaching background, which includes serving students at Rappahannock Juvenile Detention Center, an inner city charter school affiliated with Pittsburgh Public Schools, John J. Wright alternative high school, and VisionQuest female low security residential placement. This varied experience has provided her with a unique understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by students.

Currently a Social Studies Educator within Spotsylvania County Schools and Clinical Faculty at the University of Mary Washington, Nicole is actively shaping the next generation of engaged citizens and educators. Beyond the classroom, she is deeply involved in promoting civic participation in her community through her involvement as an Election Officer, organizer of voter registration drives, and active participant in voter mobilization efforts.

Nicole's commitment extends beyond the ballot box. Her multifaceted engagement underscores her belief in the power of education and active citizenship to build a stronger, more vibrant society.

Tia L. Bowman is a dedicated and inspiring leader with a strong commitment to making a positive impact in her community. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Central State University, a historically Black institution. She served as a Military Police officer in the U.S. Army and is now recognized as a disabled veteran.

With over 17 years of experience in the U.S. government, Tia has made significant contributions to public service. Her active membership in the NAACP and her role on the Health and Wellness Board further demonstrates her commitment to enhancing the quality of life in her community.

As a board member of the Central Commonwealth Black Caucus (CCBC), Tia actively collaborates with local communities and leaders to address pressing issues such as education, food insecurity, and health and wellness. She is certified as a Classroom Instructor, Kickboxing Instructor, and Plant-based Chef, which strengthens her ability to advocate for comprehensive and holistic health solutions.

Tia’s leadership is focused on driving lasting, positive change through community-based initiatives.

Jaimie Ashton serves as the Community Relations Manager for the Central Commonwealth Black Caucus (CCBC). A native of Virginia and a seasoned community organizer, Jaimie has dedicated nearly twenty years to assisting families throughout the Commonwealth in navigating the public school special education system. 

She has launched several community programs from the ground up, with her most notable achievement being Autism Awareness Day, which she established in collaboration with local sheriff's departments and now celebrates across multiple counties. Jaimie is also committed to animal welfare and has played a role in numerous legislative efforts to protect companion animals, including initiatives aimed at combating predatory lending practices that target financially vulnerable individuals. 

Her commitment to service and her ability to identify unmet needs will be crucial in helping CCBC better serve the community.