About Tonyia

I am a freelance writer and editor who moved to Austin in 2002 in order to escape bitter Boston winters and earn my master’s degree in print journalism at the University of Texas.

First published at the age of five, I have written for many publications, including the Houston Business Journal, the Austin Business Journal, Leafly.com, AustinWoman Magazine, The Jewish Outlook, AustinFit magazine, RunTex.com, Texas Family, howstuffworks.com, and the Texas Rural Water Association’s magazine, Quality on Tap. I have also crafted press releases for many organizations and companies.

I have served as assistant editor and editor of the Jewish Outlook since 2011. In late 2019 and early 2020, I stepped in to edit and write for the Texas Rural Water Association with their magazines Quench and Texas on Tap while a staff member was on maternity leave.

I thrive on challenge, learning and variety. I love telling people’s stories, especially when covering technology, real estate, emerging industries, health care and social justice issues.

When not busy interviewing, editing and writing, I spend time with my husband, our children and our dog. I love being outdoors; camping and hiking are my jam, and I am a BSA assistant troop leader. When stuck inside, I enjoy reading and playing board and video games.

My experience includes:

Shalom Austin, Austin, TX;
Editor, The Jewish Outlook (staff)

The Jewish Outlook, Austin, TX;
Assistant Editor, Reporter (freelance)

Texas Rural Water Association, Austin, TX;
Director of Communications

Texas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, Austin, TX ;
Public Affairs Assistant

Austin Travis County Mental Health Mental Retardation Center, Austin, TX;
Intern

Texas Medical Association, Austin, TX;
Part-time Media Relations Assistant; Production Assistant/Media Buyer

University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA;
Senior staff writer for The Mass Media

United States Navy; Radioman

Education:

University of Texas at Austin; Austin, TX
Master of Arts in print journalism with a minor concentration in finance.

University of Massachusetts; Boston, MA
Bachelor of Arts in English literature.

Affiliations:

Women Communicators of Austin; Austin, TX
I have served as a WCA board member and print newsletter editor (then Association for Women in Communications). I am currently a member of their social media communications committee.