MACCA, A Community of Career Development Professionals

Conference Keynote Speakers
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Josh Davies, Founder The Non-Prophets

RESILity The Key to Thriving In Uncertain Times

Thursday, December 3

Does it feel like life is moving faster than ever? That the pace of change has become relentless? That’s because it has – we’ve transitioned from an era of constant change to one of hyper-change. And yet, the speed of change will never be as slow again as it is today. This has led to more than three-quarters of employees feeling burnt-out, and organizations dealing with a 30% decrease in productivity. Rather than try to pivot just one more time, or become overwhelmed and paralyzed, we need to instead be preparing ourselves and our organizations with skills for the future. The RESILity framework will give attendees seven specific steps and skills to deal with the unrelenting pace of change today. Built on research with high-outcome organizations, and real-world examples, this presentation brings powerful insight into actionable ideas. With the constant change and uncertainty in every aspect of our world today, the need for an adaptable and resilient leadership mindset has never been greater – no matter what business or industry you’re in! This session gives proven, practical strategies to build RESILity in yourself and your organization so that you will be prepared no matter what the world throws at you next!

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to:

See the acceleration of long-term education, workforce, and workplace trends
Understand the importance of resilience and adaptability leadership
Learn seven strategies to better develop RESILity in themselves and others

Josh Davies is an award-winning dynamic speaker, thought leader, and advocate for building stronger communities through workforce and education. With more than two decades of leadership experience across business, education, and workforce development, he brings both passion and practical strategies to audiences around the world. As the founder of The Non-Prophets, Josh convenes global thought leaders to address pressing challenges in the future of work. He is recognized for his ability to make complex issues both relatable and actionable. His message is clear: In a world where change never stops, the future of work isn't coming - it's already arrived. The path forward? Doubling down on the skills that make us irreversibly human. Respected as a trusted authority, his engaging style, global perspective, and commitment to action make him a sought-after speaker for anyone looking to understand and navigate the rapidly changing world of work.

Melissa Tenzer, CEO
Dress for Success
& The Cherry Tree

Thursday, December 3

You are more than enough breaking the myth of being to much or not enough. I am teaching workforce development on effective communication, and knowing your worth in the workplace and personally. Demonstrated effective workplace communication skills, active listening, communication techniques and workplace interactions. Communicate personal value and strengths and advocating for yourself, expressing needs, growth and compensation.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to:

Learn effective workplace communication
Communicate personal value and strengths with confidence
Advocate for themselves professionally

Melissa Tenzer A dynamic and accomplished leader with more than 25 years of experience transforming lives through workforce development, community service, entrepreneurship, and strategic leadership. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Dress for Success Central New Jersey (DFSCNJ), Founder of Melissa Tenzer Enterprises, and Founder and President of The Cherry Tree Foundation, established in honor of her late sister. The Foundation awards annual scholarships to students pursuing higher education and supports music education programs, reflecting Melissa’s lifelong appreciation of music. She has also served as a Strategic Advisor for Dress for Success Worldwide. A visionary builder and changemaker, Melissa was instrumental in founding and opening the Middlesex County office of Dress for Success Central New Jersey— significantly expanding access to services and deepening the organization’s regional impact. Under her leadership, DFSCNJ has experienced transformational growth, expanding its reach from one county to seven and increasing its core programs from two to ten. She authored the educational curriculum for eight signature programs, including Self-Acceptance, Know Your Worth, Effective Communication, and Healthy Minds. A B O U T E m p o w e r i n g L i v e s . D r i v i n g C h a n g e . I n s p i r i n g F u t u r e s . In 2022, Melissa founded the Dress for Success Central NJ Business Academy within Trenton Central High School, directly impacting nearly 2,000 high school girls through mentorship, career readiness, and professional development. Her work continues to create scalable models that empower women and youth to achieve economic independence. Melissa is a sought-after speaker whose impact extends both nationally and internationally. She has presented at leading institutions including Princeton University, Rutgers University, Rider University, and Bristol Myers Squibb, and has been invited to share her expertise across major cities including Las Vegas, Toronto, London, San Francisco, Chicago, and New York—bringing a global perspective to workforce development and women’s empowerment.

Resilience in Action: Empowering Diverse Learners to Succeed

Friday, December 4

Career development professionals play a vital role in helping students navigate academic, personal, and career challenges. This session explores practical, culturally responsive strategies for fostering resilience, confidence, and career adaptability among diverse learners. Participants will gain actionable tools to support student success, promote equitable career outcomes, and empower students to thrive and succeed in uncertain times.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to:

Examine the sources of adversity that diverse learners encounter and their impact on career development, career readiness, and long-term success.
Explain the factors that foster resilience and career adaptability among diverse learners.
Apply culturally responsive strategies to strengthen students' confidence, resilience, and career readiness.
Develop and implement at least one actionable practice to promote equitable career development and student success within your institutional context.

Tina Vance Knight is a passionate career development leader with more than 25+ years of experience advancing student and alumni success through strategic career development, innovative programming, and comprehensive engagement initiatives. Throughout her career, she has served in various roles at public, private, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), gaining a broad perspective on the unique needs and experiences of diverse student populations. She specializes in designing, developing, and facilitating career workshops, seminars, and professional development programs that empower students and alumni to achieve their goals. A dedicated advocate for career equity she regularly volunteers her expertise by conducting career development workshops for diverse communities and organizations throughout the Philadelphia area. She holds a master’s degree in Instructional Design, Training, and Development from Penn State University and a bachelor’s degree from La Salle University.