The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to host the NJ Conference on Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) on Friday, September 23 from 7:30 am – 12:30 pm at Educational Testing Services (ETS), 660 Rosedale Road in Princeton.

Our DEAI programming began in 2018 with a series of events designed to inform members and the public about DEAI in the workplace. These events also facilitate conversations that enable attendees to share their views and stories openly. The Princeton Mercer Chamber has been hosting the annual NJ Conference on DEAI since 2020.

“We’re positioning this event as the revival of DEAI,” said Amy Rosica, Program Manager for the Princeton Mercer Chamber. “While some organizations have doubled down on DEAI efforts, others have cut or eliminated DEAI programs. Many companies are in limbo. Because these issues and conversations are so important, this conference will explore what DEAI looks like in our current climate and what lies ahead. Our hope is that attendees will feel hopeful and empowered to continue their initiatives.”

Everyone is welcome to attend the NJ Conference on DEAI, regardless of the state of your organization’s DEAI program. Whether you’ve been highly engaged in DEAI initiatives or simply want to become more informed, you’ll walk away from the event with a deeper understanding of DEAI and actionable insights to bring back to your organization.

Here are the featured speakers for this year’s event:

Opening Remarks

John Harmon

Founder, President, and CEO, African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ

A long-time friend of the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber and a respected business leader, John Harmon will kick off the NJ Conference for DEAI. John founded the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey to align government and business interests in advocating for New Jersey’s Black entrepreneurs and their communities. He currently serves on the board of directors the US Chamber of Commerce and is the former Chairman of the Board for the National Black Chamber of Commerce.

“John’s perspective is extremely valuable in this moment for DEAI,” Amy said. “As a Chamber executive since 1997, John has close relationships with business associations, government agencies, and communities. His experience as an advocate for fairness, equity, and access is perfectly aligned with this event.”

Morning Keynote Speaker

Candice Alfonso, Esq. 

Chief Diversity Officer, Director of the NJ Office of Diversity and Inclusion, New Jersey State Treasury

Candice Alfonso monitors the State's public contracting process for participation by minority, women, veteran, disabled veteran, and LGBTQIA+-owned business. She focuses on strategies for increasing both awareness of these opportunities and utilization of XBE businesses. Candice also played a significant role in the State’s strategy to bring the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ to the New Jersey/New York region, highlighting the importance of equity and inclusion in the winning bid.

“Candice is CDO for the State of New Jersey, one of the state’s largest employers,” Amy said. “She is uniquely qualified to provide insights that apply to a very broad segment of the business community. We’re confident that she’ll help attendees better understand why DEAI is important and how to move forward.”

Closing Keynote Speaker

Jeanette Iglesias, PCC

President, JI Coaching & Consulting, LLC

As a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Jeanette Iglesias specializes in leadership development, facilitation, executive coaching, and diversity, equity, and belonging (DIB). Creating inclusive environments that prioritize belonging for all is a key area of focus for her firm. Jeanette takes pride in helping leaders optimize results and move forward in their personal and professional development. Since 2016, she has directed the New Jersey Governor's Hispanic Fellows HISPA Leadership Workshop Series Program.

“Jeanette is an incredible speaker,” Amy said. “Once attendees have learned new things, they might not know where to go or what to do. They may feel a little vulnerable. Jeanette will bring everything full circle with clarity and purpose so attendees head back to the office feeling inspired and confident.”

Register Today!

“We’re at a pivotal moment with DEAI,” said Hal English, President and CEO of the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber. “The Chamber is committed to continuing the development of DEAI programming that keeps members informed about the latest initiatives and trends. We encourage professionals throughout the region to attend this important event to get a better sense of where DEAI stands now and where it’s headed.”

The NJ Conference on DEAI will be held Friday, September 23 from 7:30 am – 12:30 pm at Educational Testing Services (ETS) in Princeton. Register through the Princeton Mercer Chamber website and reserve your spot today!