Huntington Highlights: College & Career Center Counselor Bernadette Walsh Plays Vital Role

Bernadette Walsh serves as the dedicated College and Career Center counselor at Huntington High School, where she plays a vital role in guiding students through every step of the post-secondary planning process. Her expertise, organization, and genuine care have made a lasting impact on students and families alike.

Mrs. Walsh grew up in New Jersey and attended Immaculate Heart Academy, a very small all girls Catholic high school in Bergen County. Yes, she wore a uniform.

“I double majored in psychology and human services in college,” Mrs. Walsh said. “I completed several internships and one of them was with an agency that oversaw supervised visitations with parents whose rights were court terminated. Working with the children in that program helped me to realize that I wanted to pursue a career working with kids in some way. I loved my college experience and so tying the two together-education and counseling was the perfect fit.”

Mrs. Walsh began her career as a school counselor at Preston High School in the Bronx. She worked there for four years and although it was a terrific experience, the commute was rough. “Fortunately,  I was hired in 2006 at Huntington High School and the rest is history,” she said.

The Huntington High School faculty member is the fifteenth teacher or staff member to be profiled as part of a new “Huntington Highlights” initiative that provides community members with insight into teachers and support staff members who toil at the district’s eight individual school buildings.

“Bernadette leads the district’s efforts to help students navigate college applications, financial aid, scholarships, and career exploration,” said Dr. Ricky V. Papandrea Jr, district director of school counseling and testing, K-12. “Her knowledge and support empower students to make informed and confident decisions about their futures.”

Mrs. Walsh loves spending time with her family when she’s not working in her high school office. “I have three girls; one is a senior, one is a sophomore and one is in seventh grade so they keep me very busy with all of their activities,” she said. “I love to go to the beach, read, cook, hang out with friends and family, take my dog for long walks and I love to visit colleges!”

“She works tirelessly to ensure each student’s individual support plan reflects their goals, strengths, and aspirations.,” Dr. Papandrea said. “Her personalized approach helps students feel seen and supported throughout the often-stressful planning process.”

After two decades in Huntington, Mrs. Walsh has become an indispensable member of the faculty. “Working as a school counselor at Huntington High School has been amazing,” she said. “I am so lucky to wake up every day excited to meet with students and families and help them plan for their future. It’s been so rewarding.”

Mrs. Walsh recognizes it’s important not to keep up such a frenetic pace to cause burnout. When not on the job, she loves traveling and going to concerts.

“Bernadette maintains strong relationships with colleges, families and staff, ensuring that every aspect of the post-secondary process runs smoothly,” Dr. Papandrea said. “Her communication and organizational skills are invaluable to the success of the program. Whether hosting college awareness events, coordinating workshops, or meeting with students one-on-one, Bernadette goes above and beyond to prepare students for life after high school.”

Mrs. Walsh has guided thousands of Huntington seniors through the college selection process. “Bernadette’s dedication to helping students achieve their post-secondary dreams is unmatched,” Dr. Papandrea said. “Her calm guidance, deep knowledge, and genuine care make her an invaluable resource to our entire school community.”