After a lengthy career in Airline Management, Tonya Rivens developed a passion for all things radio. During her 14-years in the industry, Rivens has worn the titles of Program Director , Music Director and Community Affairs Director. "Sunday Morning Inspirations With Tonya Rivens" is now featured on WPEG (Power 98). Her radio career also includes stints at WBAV (V-101.9), WPZS (100.9) and WGIV (103.3)
Early in 2011 Rivens decided to branch out in the pursuit of radio syndication with the creation of "Gospel Insight with Tonya Rivens." Less than a year later, the show is now featured on WYPJ (Joy 95.3) in Anderson, SC and WBLA - AM ( Shine 1440) in Elizabethtown, North Carolina. Rivens embarked on a television career in the fall of 2011 when she joined the WBTV team as afternoon traffic reporter.
"For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required." -- Luke 12:48 This scripture comes to mind when others speak of Rivens and her giving nature. She helps prepare up-and-coming broadcasters at the Carolina School Of Broadcasting where she works as a part-time instructor. Rivens' dedication to community has garnered her awards from The Urban League of the Central Carolinas and the Charlotte Mecklenburg NAACP.
Rivens owns a small business, The Rivens Business Center in Cornelius, North Carolina. The center operates as TRivens, LLC, housing a hair salon, barbershop and non-profit resource center under her 501c3, The Ausie Rivens Scholarship Foundation.
Founded in 2004 in honor of Rivens grandfather, the first black barber in Cornelius, the ARSF has provided five scholarships for area youth to pursue careers in Barber Styling. The non-profit also sponsors youth camps, trips and a successful, annual outdoor gospel celebration known as "Praise in the Park."
Rivens has a B.A. in Journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a former member of the Board of Directors for Our Towns Habitat for Humanity. Rivens also graduated from the FBI Citizens Academy and is a member of New Birth-Charlotte.
This busy woman says being a mom to her son, Jalen, is her number one priority.
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