Dr. Theresa Ronna was raised in Passaic County, and aspired to be a professional dancer. She initially attended Montclair State University as a dance major, but realized that she needed a back-up plan. Dr. Ronna’s love for science and interest in sports medicine changed her direction to pre-med.

After graduating in 1990, she attended Columbia University as a graduate student while embarking on a rare opportunity to work at Robert DeNiro’s Tribeca Film Center. In 1992, she attended the NY College of Podiatric Medicine, where she continued to excel in sports medicine and research. Dr. Ronna launched the Podiatric Medical Review, a peer reviewed journal where students can publish their work. After graduating in 1996, she did a surgical residency at United Hospital/Roseland Surgical Center.

Upon residency completion, Dr. Ronna spent three years at Naval Hospital Camp Lejuene in North Carolina. It was there that she put her knowledge of lower extremity biomechanics and sports medicine into practice as she treated Marines and sailors. During her time at Camp Lejuene, the Base General awarded her the highest civilian honor, the Naval Commendation Award, for her work as a podiatrist.