Tonea Stewart, a native of the charming city of Greenwood, Mississippi, has resided in the vibrant city of Montgomery, Alabama since the year 1990.
As a multifaceted professional, she has made a profound impact in various fields, earning recognition as a renowned actress, whose exceptional talent has captivated audiences and critics alike.
Beyond her impressive acting career, Stewart has also demonstrated her expertise as a play director, bringing her unique perspective and artistic vision to the world of theatre.
In addition to her work in the performing arts, she has also served as the director of a national museum exhibit, showcasing her impressive ability to curate and present engaging and informative displays.
Furthermore, Stewart has also had a distinguished academic career, serving as a tenured Professor at a prestigious institution, where she has shared her knowledge and expertise with students and colleagues alike.
Moreover, she has also held the esteemed position of Dean of the College of Visual & Performing Arts at Alabama State University, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the arts and providing leadership and guidance to students and faculty.
Tonea Dean, as the esteemed leader of the Departments of Art, Music, and Theatre, plays a pivotal role in fostering creativity and artistic expression within the academic community. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, she also takes on a mentorship role, offering guidance and support to students as they navigate their academic journeys. Furthermore, she serves as a role model, embodying the values of dedication, hard work, and perseverance that are essential for success in the arts.
As a result of her tireless efforts, the Department of Theatre Arts has experienced a significant surge in popularity, with a substantial increase in the number of Theatre majors, minors, and graduates. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Tonea's ability to inspire and motivate her students, many of whom go on to pursue advanced degrees at top graduate universities. In fact, an impressive 75% of graduates from the Department of Theatre Arts have received full scholarships to esteemed institutions, a true reflection of Tonea's enduring impact on the lives of her students.
Tonea's artistic endeavors have had a profound impact on numerous individuals, transcending boundaries and reaching out to a diverse range of people through various programs and initiatives.
These programs, which have included T.A.P.S., Camp 3T, TTI, ARPAC, and Camp Gifted, have specifically catered to individuals with disabilities, providing them with unique opportunities to express themselves creatively and develop their artistic skills.
In addition to her work with these programs, Tonea has also had the privilege of directing major museum exhibitions, showcasing her exceptional organizational and leadership skills.
Some of the notable museums she has worked with include the Rosa Parks Museum, African American Museum of Philadelphia, and The International Civil Rights Museum in Greensboro, N.C.
Through her work in these esteemed institutions, Tonea has not only showcased her artistic talents but has also played a significant role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of African Americans.
Tonea's academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Speech and Theater from Jackson State University, laying the foundation for her future endeavors. She then furthered her education by earning a Master's degree in Theater Arts from the esteemed University of California at Santa Barbara, demonstrating her dedication to her craft.
Her most notable achievement, however, was the attainment of a Ph.D. in Theatre Arts from Florida State University. This remarkable accomplishment not only marked a milestone in her personal and professional development but also made her a trailblazer in the academic world.
Tonea Stewart, a multifaceted and accomplished individual, has garnered an impressive array of accolades throughout her illustrious career.
Notably, she received a prestigious nomination for an NAACP Image Award for her outstanding performance in the critically acclaimed film "A Time to Kill".
Furthermore, Tonea's remarkable narration skills were recognized with a coveted New York World Festival Gold Medal Award for her work on Public Radio International's groundbreaking series "Remembering Slavery".
In addition to these notable achievements, Tonea has been honored with honorary doctorates from three esteemed institutions: Buena Vista University, Jarvis Christian College, and Tuskegee University.
These esteemed recognitions serve as a testament to Tonea's dedication, passion, and commitment to her craft, as well as her enduring impact on the world of arts and entertainment.
Tonea, a renowned figure in the realm of arts and community service, has garnered widespread recognition for her outstanding contributions. Among her numerous accolades, she has been inducted into the prestigious National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame, a testament to her lasting impact.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Tonea is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the Order of The Golden Circle, a life member of the NAACP, SCLC, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Her commitment to these organizations reflects her dedication to promoting social justice, equality, and the advancement of her community.
Tonea's personal life is filled with love and family. She is married to Dr. Allen Stewart, and together they have three children, who are the center of their universe. As a doting grandmother, Tonea is also blessed with five grandchildren, who bring immense joy to her life.
