Meet The Board
Dr. Bianca Pucci is an accomplished financial executive, educator, advisor, and community mentor with a passion for empowering others through financial literacy. She holds a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) from Wilmington University, where her research centers on financial literacy outcomes among adolescents from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. She also earned an MBA in Finance and a BSBA in Accounting from Florida Atlantic University and is a licensed CPA in the State of Florida.
With a successful track record as Chief Financial Officer for several companies and a board member for various non-profits, Dr. Pucci leverages her extensive experience to consult and educate entrepreneurs on effective financial decision-making, business valuation, and navigating mergers and acquisitions. Known as a “financial storyteller,” she specializes in translating complex financial data into meaningful narratives that drive informed decisions.
Dr. Pucci is the creator of “Fun Finance Facts,” an evidence-based, interactive curriculum designed to make financial education accessible and engaging. Her scenario-based approach is tailored to diverse audiences—ranging from first-grade students to college freshmen, entrepreneurs, and working professionals. Committed to bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world application, she ensures learners not only understand but confidently apply financial strategies in their personal and professional lives. She has taught her curriculum to the students at Impact Achievement Learning Center along with her math course, “ Where Money brings Math to Life.”
Her programs have been successfully implemented across several non-profits in Palm Beach County, with measurable improvements demonstrated through pre- and post-program assessments. The impact of her work often extends beyond the classroom, fostering long-term mentorship relationships with her students.
Shelbia Carter-Wiley, Board Member
She is married to Shelley R. Wiley and the proud mother of two children and five grandchildren.
She has an associate’s degree in Business Administration, B.A..-Psychology and B.A. -Christian Counseling; Advanced Degree-Theology and M.S.-Education, concentration Educational Leadership.
She is the executive director of Engaging Minds Services, Inc., a nonprofit that provides services for victims of human trafficking, sexual assault. She serves as chair of Interfaith committee on the Coastal Region Human Trafficking Taskforce. She is a retired educator (special education teacher, principal and district employee) and adjunct professor at Coastal Carolina University. She is an ordained minister since 1982 and continues her ministry through working with victims of trauma. She authored two books, Mental Exoneration and Don’t Touch My Golden Parts.
Jessica Estel is an experienced educator, curriculum designer, and passionate advocate for financial literacy and real-world learning. With over a decade in elementary education, she has dedicated her career to developing student-centered instruction that prepares
young learners for meaningful, real-world success.
Jessica’s commitment extends beyond the classroom. She works to empower underserved communities and ensure equitable access to high-quality learning experiences that link to students’ futures.
Marla Acosta, Secretary
Marla Acosta is a distinguished educator with an illustrious career spanning over forty years. With a deep commitment to nurturing young minds, Marla has taught students across a spectrum of educational settings, including regular education, gifted education, and alternative education.
Marla's dedication to excellence in teaching led her to pursue National Board certification, a testament to her commitment to professional development and the highest standards of teaching practice.
Throughout her career, Marla has not only excelled in the classroom but also served in numerous mentoring and leadership roles. As a mentor, she has guided aspiring educators, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience to inspire the next generation of teachers. In leadership positions, Marla has played a pivotal role in shaping educational policies and initiatives, advocating for student-centered approaches and inclusive learning environments.
Marla Acosta's impact extends far beyond the walls of the classroom. She is a respected figure in the educational community, known for her innovative teaching methods, compassionate mentorship, and unwavering dedication to student success. Her legacy as a transformative educator continues to inspire and empower countless individuals in the pursuit of academic excellence.
Jessica Estel, Treasurer
Tamika Taylor, CEO
Tamika Taylor is an accomplished individual with a strong background in education and a commitment to helping students overcome reading and math difficulties. Her seven years of experience as a certified ESE (Exceptional Student Education) teacher demonstrate her dedication to working with diverse learning needs.
With a Bachelor's Degree in Paralegal Studies and a Master's Degree in Education Leadership, Tamika brings a unique skill set to the field of education. Her expertise in developing personalized reading and math curricula tailored to each student's academic needs highlights her innovative and effective approach to teaching.
As the Executive Director of Impact Achievement Learning Center, Inc., a nonprofit organization and owner of Unity Academy, Tamika is leading initiatives to provide reading intervention to struggling readers in Palm Beach County. This role showcases her commitment to making a positive impact on the community by addressing educational challenges and supporting students who face difficulties in reading and comprehension.
Tamika's claim that she can help when conventional methods don't work suggests a problem-solving and adaptive mindset. This quality is crucial when dealing with students who require alternative approaches to learning. Her specialization in teaching children with reading, literacy, comprehension, writing, and math difficulties further emphasizes her dedication to addressing a wide range of academic challenges.
Overall, Tamika Taylor's combination of academic qualifications, teaching experience, and leadership in a nonprofit organization underscores her role as a valuable educator and community leader in Palm Beach County. Her commitment to personalized and effective teaching methods positions her as a resourceful advocate for students facing academic difficulties.
Dr. Bianca Pucci, Chairman of the Board
Darius Murray, M.Ed, Ed.S, CRC, Board Member
Darius Murray is the founder of ReAble-U Therapy, serving individuals throughout the state of Florida. Originally from Miami, FL. Darius is a dedicated licensed Mental Health and Nationally Certified Vocational Counselor with over a decade of experience in guiding individuals toward fulfilling their lives and careers. With a passion for helping others discover their strengths and interests, Darius has become a trusted resource in his community.
Darius completed his graduate degree in Vocational and Mental Health Counseling at Florida Atlantic University. He holds extensive experience in the area of helping neurodiverse youth and young adults access employment while improving their independence and social skills. His academic background, coupled with extensive practical experience, equips him with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist neurodiverse clients in navigating the complex world of career exploration and decision-making.
He is known for his empathetic demeanor, active listening skills, and commitment to fostering a supportive, understanding, and valued treatment environment. He believes that everyone deserves to find a career path that not only aligns with their skills and interests but also brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In addition to his work as a counselor, Darius is actively involved in professional organizations related to career and mental health counseling. He continues to present and participate in research to help support individuals of diverse skills and interests.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Darius enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and volunteering in his community. He values work-life balance and encourages his clients to prioritize their well-being as they pursue their mental health and career goals.
