Berkeley College recently announced that its Director of Continuing Education, Maria Rivera, has been named the 2026 Board President of the Northern New Jersey Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (NNJ-ATD), an organization dedicated to workplace learning and performance for professional growth.
The NNJ-ATD offers educational programs, networking opportunities, and other resources to its members. The Chapter is part of the international Association for Talent Development, the world’s largest association dedicated to workplace learning and performance professionals, with members in more than 100 countries.
As Board President for the 2026 term, Rivera will provide vision, structure, culture, and environment to the NNJ-ATD to meet its mission and goals
“Maria brings exceptional talent development expertise and a deep commitment to our Chapter’s mission of advancing learning and performance in the workplace.,” said former Board President Kristen Illes, Founder and Leadership Growth Advisor, 3D Leadership Solutions. “I am confident that under her leadership, our Chapter will continue to grow and provide outstanding value to our members and the broader Northern New Jersey talent development community.”
Rivera has more than 10 years of experience in higher education, training and development, management, sales and technology, project management, web development, and video production. She leads Berkeley College Continuing Education efforts for professionals seeking to advance in their careers or transition into new careers by enrolling in flexible Continuing Education courses and Certificate programs.
“As Director of Continuing Education at Berkeley College and incoming President, I am thrilled to continue collaborating with the Board and Chapter members to build a dynamic, innovative, and inclusive organization that advances talent development and provides value to every member,” Rivera said. “As we move forward together, I am energized by the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Rivera holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training from the University of Phoenix, a Bachelor of Arts from Lehman College, and a Data Visualization Certificate from the NYU School of Professional Studies. She is a certified New York State/New Jersey Real Estate Instructor and a Certified Scrum Master (CSM).
Photo Caption: The Northern New Jersey Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (NNJ-ATD) recently appointed Maria Rivera (center) as its 2026 Board President. At left is Board President Kristen Illes. President-Elect Joseph Alvarez, who will serve as Board President in 2027, is shown at right. – Photo courtesy of Berkeley College.
