About Shelly
Shelly Kates Headen, born in Western North Carolina to a high school teacher and high school principal, grew up in a small mountain town in southern Virginia, and relocated back to the North Carolina mountains when she was 14 years old. Shelly’s academic journey led her to Appalachian State University, where she graduated summa cum laude and ranked second in the college of business. During the summer following her sophomore year, Shelly participated in a political science program with the NC Office of State Treasurer where she developed a strong interest in public policy.
She met her husband, Greg, in their accounting classes, and they both embarked on their careers as auditors at McGladrey (now RSM), an international CPA firm. During those years as an auditor, she gained a wealth of knowledge about manufacturing, telecom, nonprofits, and Medicaid. After this initial professional stint, Shelly spent eight fruitful years working for a local pharmaceutical and nutritional manufacturer as a corporate accounting manager.
However, her most rewarding role came when she became a stay-at-home mom to her three daughters. During this time, she contributed to her community volunteering as the Co-Treasurer for the Oak Ridge Elementary School PTSO, coaching the Oak Ridge Youth Association cheerleading team, tutoring, and volunteering at church. She also took the role as the Partners in Business Chairperson for Northwest Guilford Middle School. Shelly’s days were filled with organizing school events, tutoring underprivileged children in reading, and shuttling the girls to field hockey, competition dance, and cheerleading.
As her daughters grew older, she returned to work as a recruiter helping local companies find accounting and finance staff. She enjoyed helping others achieve their career goals and her in-depth knowledge of the accounting field made her an excellent career advisor.
Shelly is currently managing a retail garage door business with her husband and works part-time for a nonprofit dedicated to cancer research and awareness. She is deeply engaged in community as a member of her local Lion’s Club where she delivers food to the underserved. Through The League of Women Voters and Guilford for All, Shelly advocates for civic engagement and social equity. As an active member of the Greensboro Builders Association, Shelly aids fundraising efforts for construction industry scholarships. Additionally, Shelly serves as chair of her local Democratic Party precinct, facilitating grassroots political organization and outreach.