Tonda is a senior reporter in the Toronto Star’s Ottawa bureau with 36 years reporting experience the past two decades spent covering federal politics and public policy. A veteran of the press corps on the Hill, she covers all sides of the aisle with a skilled and knowledgeable voice. Her insight is called on in broadcast journalism. When political panels are selected for radio or TV, she is often in one of the chairs to bring her extensive knowledge to the debate. She has covered all major political parties, legal affairs, and public safety issues. A past-president of the Parliamentary Press Gallery, she now serves as vice-president on the board.
Tonda is an outstanding example of today’s journalists who must report on several media and social media platforms. Like two other guest speakers this year, she was born and raised in Newfoundland.