By Gabrielle Chisolm, Communications Intern, a junior majoring in English at the University of Maryland

Six years after debuting, the DLE’s Culture Chat, a popular career-improvement program, has undergone a refresh. 

Emerging is Career Compass, an interactive, informative virtual program that illuminates trending topics and arms attendees with new knowledge and contacts to step up their professional development.

“The name ‘Career Compass’ better reflects our goal of guiding participants in their career journeys,” explains Kaled Rocha, who leads the volunteer team of DLE members responsible for planning and facilitating all programs. 

Kaled, who is Vice President of Investments at JPMorgan Wealth Management in Houston, TX, meets regularly to identify trending topics and guest speakers with fellow enthusiasts: 

• Allison Schmitt, Executive Director at EforAll Berkshire County in Berkshire County, MA
• Aleah Marrow, Independent Filmmaker at AsM Productions in Durham, NC
• Josh Brilliant, Systems Test Engineer at General Dynamics Mission Systems in Pittsfield, MA
• Oneil Carter, Regulatory Associate at Regeneron in Cohoes, NY
• Morgan Maier, Sports Reporter at Southern Dutchess News in Hudson Valley, NY
• Karuna Mishra, Former Business Intelligence Consultant in Williamstown, MA

Their team recently gained a newcomer–Charles Lerner–whose DLE ties date to 2014, making him a familiar face and voice. “By far, the most caring and supportive professional group that I’ve been part of is the DLE. I’m excited to join the Career Compass team and help people be accountable to be their best,” notes Charles, who works for KultureCity, a non-profit New York City-based organization dedicated to sensory accessibility and autism inclusion.

The invitation to join engrossing conversations and gain practical experience in project management as a Career Culture team member is wide open. Personal and professional benefits are invaluable, notes Kaled. “I have connected with wonderful individuals who support, challenge, and help me grow. Plus, it has been a great opportunity to make an immediate impact on people’s lives for the positive. My confidence and communication skills have greatly benefited! I couldn’t imagine a better way to grow, while helping others at the same time.”

Want to get involved? Contact Kaled Rocha at Kaled.Rocha@gmail.com.