Tonya has worked in the disability field for 30 years, with 25 of those with The Arc. Starting as a direct support professional, her career evolved as the field itself evolved from segregated services to supports that are wrapped around a person to help them live their life included in their communities as they choose. In 2011 she joined The Arc of Southside, where she led the successful transformation of a large campus setting that included a Group Home for 15 people, a Sheltered Workshop for 135 people, and a Private Day School serving 30 students with disabilities to all community-based individualized services including integrated housing, supported employment and community engagement. In 2018 she moved to the state Chapter of The Arc, where she leads public policy advocacy across the state. Leading through change and organizational structure are among her areas of expertise, as well as her passion. She is a wife, stepmom, and aunt, living in Richmond with her husband Derrick and his service dog Crypto.