Maria Rivera, Director of Continuing Education at Berkeley College, has been named the 2026 Board President of the Northern New Jersey Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (NNJ-ATD). The NNJ-ATD is part of a global association focused on workplace learning and performance, offering educational programs and networking to its members.
As Board President for 2026, Rivera will lead efforts to fulfill the chapter’s 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. 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,” said former Board President Kristen Illes, Founder and Leadership Growth Advisor at 3D Leadership Solutions.
Rivera has over ten years of experience in higher education, training, management, sales and technology, project management, web development, and video production. She oversees continuing education programs at Berkeley College designed for professionals aiming to advance or change careers.
“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.”
She holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training from University of Phoenix, a Bachelor’s degree from Lehman College, a Data Visualization Certificate from NYU School of Professional Studies. Rivera is also certified as a Real Estate Instructor in New York State/New Jersey as well as being a Certified Scrum Master.
The appointment highlights ongoing professional growth initiatives within Northern New Jersey’s business community.
