Alumni Spotlight: Tonya Minggia, DNP, “I Enjoyed Every Moment at Aspen University”

Tonya Minggia, DNP

Aspen is proud to introduce a remarkable individual whose journey in healthcare is nothing short of inspiring. Meet Dr. Tonya Minggia, whose early exposure to healthcare eventually led to the completion of her DNP at Aspen in March 2024.

I come from a family filled with healthcare providers, including my mother and grandmother. I have always had a love for nurturing and caring for people. My healthcare education began at an early age while I was in high school. I attended a vocational high school that offered many studies in healthcare. I was afforded the opportunity to complete a Certified Nursing Assistant program as a sophomore, and then a Licensed Practical Nurse program upon my high school graduation. Afterwards, I joined the United States Army as an Army Nurse, where I gained the skills necessary to become a leader. This was just the beginning of my story.

I then enrolled in an LPN to RN Transition Diploma program at Southside Regional Hospital located in Petersburg, Virginia. I had the prestigious honor of being one of the two first African Americans to complete the program. I went on to complete my BSN at Virginia Commonwealth University located in Richmond, Virginia. During my educational journey, I met a magnificent group of ladies who belonged to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. I decided to join this elite group of women and continue my scholarship endeavors. Soon after, I completed the MSN program with a specialty in Leadership and Management at Walden University. There was just one piece remaining: I wanted to complete my doctoral degree. One of my colleagues who had attended Aspen urged me to check out the program. I contacted Aspen and it was history in the making!

I am proud to say that I am now Dr. Tonya Minggia, and I enjoyed every moment at Aspen University.

My advice to everyone is “Live life to the fullest and grab on to all it has in store for you.” 

Dr. Tonya’s commitment to life-long learning and leadership is evidenced in her steady rise through higher education, service in the Army, and induction into Zeta Phi Beta. We are honored to have been the destination for her terminal degree in nursing. If you’re feeling as inspired as we are, have a look at Aspen’s advanced degree programs here!


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