Tonya Troka, Ed.D. candidate

• Program Director, General Education 
• Chicago, IL
• Communications specialist. Lifelong learner. Storyteller.

Education

Ed.D, Adult and Higher Education (2012 expected), Northern Illinois University; MA and BA, Communication (2004), Department of Adult and Higher Education / Northern Illinois University

Background

Tonya Troka has a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Communication with emphasis in Broadcast Journalism and Media Studies. She taught Television Studio Production while earning her graduate degree.

Troka has been working at CTU since 2004. She began working in Student Advising and led the team for nearly two years. She has also worked as the Director of Learning Services overseeing tutoring and learning labs. Troka found a perfect home now – working with faculty as a Faculty Chair. She is currently finishing her Ed.D. in Adult Education from Northern Illinois University.

Academic Specialization/Focus at CTU

General Education

Read our CTU blog.

Why are YOU IN?

I love teaching students. No matter what type of day I have, when I get to teach students in the classroom it always gives me a boost of energy. I am in because we are all changing lives every day!

Our faculty care about students and love teaching at CTU. Our students aren’t typical students. They have busy lives and somehow they fit it all in and strive to be their best. It is inspirational.

Watch Tonya's CTU Story.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I have the most experience teaching our introductory student success course. I utilize my experience working with students throughout the last seven years to help provide guidance to all of my students. I also use my leadership experience when I teach professional communications. My students get a kick out of my personal stories and how I make them feel engaged in the classroom.

Aside from higher education, what else are you passionate about?

I am passionate about fantasy football, cooking and great cuisine, and animal rescue. My husband and I rescued our French bulldog, and he is an amazing addition to our family.