Shelly began dancing at the age of four at La Danz Studio in Marion, Indiana. Upon graduation, she attended the prestigious School of American Dance of Oklahoma City University. It was here that she learned the most important lessons of how to be the most effective teacher from the founder of OCU's dance program, Jo Rowan. While at OCU Shelly was a member of the American Spirit Dance Company, where she performed in their annual Christmas, Spring and Choreography Shows. She was also privileged to meet and take class from the late Leonard Reed, creator of the Shim Sham Shimmy and Donald O'Connor, best known for his performance of Make Em Laugh in the film Singing in the Rain. Shelly participated in the summer intensive program at Giordano Dance Studio of Chicago. She has also studied at the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, Tremaine LA Dance Intensive, as well as numerous conventions and workshops across the Midwest.

Shelly found her true passion for dance when she began teaching dance in 2002. She has choreographed numerous award winning pieces in tap, jazz and lyrical. She strives to teach students excellence in technique as well as give them the skills to advance themselves through self development and expression.

Shelly resides in Marion with her husband Danny and their two children, Stella and Elijah.