Tonya received her B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Marriage and Family Therapy Emphasis) from Pepperdine University. She spent over fifteen years as a Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Qualified Rehabilitation Counselor with the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). During her tenure, Tonya served as the Inland Empire District’s apprenticeship subject matter expert and trainer, led the Transition Partnership Program (TPP), and served as the contract lead for the Summer Training and Work Experience Program for Students (STEPS) in coordination with the Riverside County Workforce Development Board.In November 2014, Tonya was elected onto the City of Perris Council and was quickly appointed to serve as Mayor Pro-Tem. Tonya enjoys spending time with her husband Jason, and her three adult children (Devon 26, Brianna 22, & Jaylyn 18). Tonya loves to spend her free time reading and eating everything that she can get her hands on.