09/29/2025
Dr. Bruce Bowman, DVM
Dr. Bruce Bowman has more than 40 years of experience in animal health, public service, and veterinary outreach. He began his academic journey by earning an Associate of Science from Blue Ridge Community College in 1978, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science & Agricultural Economics from Virginia Tech, then a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine.
His leadership roles span both the public and private sectors. He founded an American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accredited veterinary clinic in Augusta County, VA., then served as a Field Veterinarian for the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. With expertise in poultry disease management and animal welfare, he has consulted for federal, state, and non-governmental organizations, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Dr. Bowman is returning as a member of the Blue Ridge Community College Local Board, having previously served from 2009-2017. He continues to support veterinary and agricultural education through teaching and mentorship.
Allison Dugan
Uplifting enthusiasm, deep connections to local, regional, and statewide resources, and practical experience with the many issues small business owners face have made Shenandoah Valley SBDC Director Allison Dugan an impactful member, and now leader, of the SV SBDC team. Praised by many advising clients for her real-world insights and guidance, Allison’s mix of advanced business education and 20+ years of tourism, design, and marketing experience have been a keen asset to the organization and the business community overall.
In addition to delivering highly successful client work, first as part-time Program Manager and then as full-time Business Advisor, Allison has excelled at facilitating collaborative, community-related programs in her roles as Assistant Director and now Director. As Director, she has also provided focused energy to building the Center’s relationship with James Madison University, and is integral to the new Research, Economic Development, and Innovation (REDI) Division. Allison advances her own expertise by completing specialized training and volunteering in various capacities on local, regional, and statewide nonprofit boards.
Danny Ledford
Danny Ledford is a 1991 graduate of Appalachian State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Walker College of Business. While at App State, he was a student-athlete in cross country as well as indoor and outdoor track, and also served as the National Communications Coordinator for the Campus Resident Student Association.
With a strong background in business leadership, he currently works in the medical device industry, bringing valuable expertise and insight to his professional and community roles. His dedication extends beyond the workplace through deep involvement in the Waynesboro community, where he has served as Past President of the Waynesboro Youth Baseball and Softball Organization, a member of the Waynesboro Booster Club, and an active contributor on several local committees.
He and his wife, Jennifer, live in Waynesboro and have four children: Drew, Thomas, Kate, and Mattie. Outside of work, he remains actively engaged in both family life and community service.
Dr. Drew Maerz
Drew Maerz is a retired superintendent of Highland County Public Schools. He and his wife, Cynthia, are the proud parents of Tanner and Emi.
Dr. Maerz grew up in Schwenksville, Pennsylvania. He attended Penn State University where he earned a degree in Secondary Education – Chemistry. He also has a Masters Degree in School Administration from UNC-Greensboro, and a Doctorate in Education from UNC-Charlotte.
He has taught high school in Pennsylvania, at the School of Science and Mathematics in Durham, North Carolina, and at High Point Central High School (NC). He was also a school administrator for nine years and a district administrator for fourteen years in North Carolina. Dr. Maerz is an active Boy Scout Leader, Rotarian, a life member of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Fraternity, and a member of Phi Delta Kappa. He enjoys time with his family and dog, especially camping, hiking, travelling, and fishing.