The Office of Personal Career Development (OPCD) is a part of Development and University Relations at The University of Dallas. As a member of the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the OPCD complies with the Principles for Ethical Professional Practice for career services professionals.
The OPCD Is located in Cardinal Farrell Hall, Room 204. You can call us at 972-721-4127 or email us at career@udallas.edu.
Gaby O'Neill
Director of Office of Personal Career Development
Gaby is a proud UD alumna, holding both a master’s and bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and is a certified Career Development Facilitator with over a decade of experience in career advising. She is passionate about working with students and guiding them towards success in their professional journeys. Gaby has played a key role in creating vocational exploration programs at UD, encouraging students to choose fields of study that genuinely inspire them, and helping them explore opportunities that lead to meaningful and fulfilling careers.
Jimmy Renfro
Associate Director
LinkedIn Profile
Jimmy Renfro served much of his career at the University of North Texas, primarily
at the UNT Health Science Center in Fort Worth. A Texas native, he has over 26 years
of experience in various facets of higher education leadership and student development.
Jimmy’s philosophy of the individual career journey is that it can resemble “playing
on the playground, not climbing a ladder!” In addition to his roles in education,
he also worked in the corporate world as an oil & gas accountant. He holds a Master’s
degree in Counseling and a BBA in Accounting. James is a National Certified Counselor
and a Certified Master of Career Services. He also holds a Graduate Certificate in
Executive & Professional Coaching from the University of Texas at Dallas and is an
ICF Associate Certified Coach.
Marlena Ruiz
Career Advisor
Marlena is a born-and-raised Austinite and University of Oklahoma graduate with a degree in Sociology. After college, she returned to her hometown and spent four years teaching middle school math and coaching cheer. Through her time in education, Marlena discovered that what she enjoyed most was building meaningful relationships, providing guidance, and helping students grow in confidence. These experiences inspired her transition into career advising, where she brings her passion for mentorship and connection to her work with students. Marlena is excited to continue making a meaningful impact by helping students navigate their career paths with confidence and encouragement.