Board of Directors

LaVonne Bower, President/Founder–LaVonne has a big heart and is a natural leader. LaVonne is uniquely positioned by her love for animals and love and respect for those who serve to protect us and fight for the freedoms of others. In October 2016, LaVonne was diagnosed with breast cancer and required immediate surgery. She found herself receiving pet therapy from her own dogs. Whenever possible she helps pair an animal that has been “wounded” or is at a high risk for being euthanized as an emotional support and companionship for a veteran or first responder in need. She received her BA and her MCJA from the University of South Florida. Her past experience and training as a victim advocate and volunteer work with law enforcement doing death notifications has given her insight on the needs of first responders.   Her understanding of how to run a business, be an advocate, and her ability to work with and inspire others will place the development of Paws and Warriors in loving and capable hands. 

Shannon Chiesa was born in Weisbaden Air Force Base in Germany and also lived at San Vito dei Normanni Air Station and at Patrick Air Force Base in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Her father was a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force and her grandfather was a CWO4 in the Army while serving during the Korean War. Her uncle was a Master Sergeant in the Army and served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars and received the Bronze Star for his service. Her cousin was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army serving in the Gulf War. Shannon simply has the military in her blood. That fact has driven Shannon to dedicate much of her time to the military and the many issues that plague veterans post-service.  It is no surprise that Shannon was drawn to Paws and Warrior.  Her love for animals and our military veterans made PaWs the perfect fit. Although Shannon dedicates her time to dozens of other charitable entities, it is her time with PaWs that she most enjoys. Shannon comes from a long line of military and first responders and she has seen first hand the toll such service can take on a person. Shannon believes wholeheartedly that we all owe our Veterans and First Responders our gratitude for their unwavering sense of duty, honor and service to our country. Shannon looks forward to continuing to give her time to volunteer and to spread the word about the Paws and Warriors mission and vision.  

  Veronica Brandon Miller’s personal and professional accomplishments are a testament to her dedication, hard work, innovation and love for the community. With more than 30 years of creative vision and unparalleled expertise in community engagement, philanthropy, branding and marketing, Veronica is president of VBM Advancement, a full-service marketing company.

In the Sarasota-Bradenton area, Veronica is often referred to as a local celebrity and community connector. In fact, the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce awarded her the Leadership Impact in Action Award. She hosted her own radio show on WSRQ, “Tell Me Something Good”, where she promoted human interest topics that celebrate good news, philanthropy, and persons of interest in the community. She also hosted her own television show on SNN and was a bimonthly special guest star on ABC7’s variety show, "Suncoast View," where she shared her thoughts, views and “Good News in the Community”.

Sheri Turner,  a Small business owner, founder, and President of ProFinders, Inc. since 1996. Prior to moving to Bradenton, FL she was involved in many civic activities in Central FL including serving on the Orlando Chamber of Commerce Small Business Board, graduate of leadership Orlando class 45, and Co-Chair of Leadership Orlando Class 51. Additionally, Sheri has participated in many fundraising events over the years from Breast Cancer walks to JA Bowl-a-thons, to United Way fund raisers, UCP Chili Cook-Offs, numerous March of Dimes Walk-a-thons and more. An avid dog-lover, she and her husband currently have 2 boxers, 1 of which (Newton) is a certified Therapy Dog. Sheri is thankful for her role on the Board of Directors to help drive PaWs’ mission forward.

Ambassadors