As the Class of 2026 graduates from Campolindo High School, many leave with a clear sense of direction - thanks in part to the guidance of the College & Career Center. Behind the scenes is Denise Duff, whose path to the position reflects a deep-rooted commitment to the Moraga community.

Duff’s journey began years ago as a dedicated volunteer, serving as President of Moraga Juniors, working in classrooms, and taking on leadership roles in organizations like the PTA and the Moraga Education Foundation. As a parent, she stayed closely connected to her children’s experiences, including serving as a Class Parent Advisor and supporting athletics programs. Inspired by her work with students, she returned to school to earn a certificate in College and Career Counseling. What began as a part-time role at Campo evolved into a full-time position when her predecessor retired.

Under Duff’s leadership, the College & Career Center serves every student on campus with structured grade-level meetings, weekly academies, one-on-one counseling sessions, and drop-in advising. Each fall, more than 120 colleges visit campus, giving students direct exposure to a wide range of options. The center also organizes career talks, parent education nights, and collaborates across the district on events like college fairs and specialized information sessions.

While most Campo graduates attend four-year universities, Duff emphasizes that there is no single “right” path. Students also pursue community college, technical training, military service, and gap years. Her greatest satisfaction comes from helping students discover schools or opportunities they might never have considered, especially those who feel limited by the academic profile. “There are always options,” she notes, “if students stay open-minded.”

A cornerstone of the center’s success is the support it receives from the Moraga Education Foundation (MEF). MEF funding allows the center to expand college counseling support during the busiest time of year—fall application and essay season—when seniors need timely, individualized guidance the most. It also makes it possible to offer more 1:1 appointments across all grade levels, ensuring that students and families receive thoughtful, personalized advice rather than rushed interactions.

Beyond staffing, MEF grants help keep the center current and relevant. Funds are used to update college planning resources, send staff to UC, CSU, and other admissions conferences, and stay informed about evolving application trends and program offerings. This knowledge directly benefits Campo students, who receive up-to-date, accurate guidance in an increasingly complex admissions landscape. 

Duff offers one final piece of advice to students: be cautious about relying on social media for college guidance. At Campo’s College & Career Center, informed, personalized support remains the most valuable resource of all.