This week, Secretary Solis expressed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and classmates of 18-year-old Blue Ridge Job Corps student Misladis “Milly” Almaguer who earned her high school diploma days before succumbing to cancer on Nov. 23. On medical leave for cancer treatment since June, Milly told center staff, “I don’t care if I only live a few weeks or many years, I want to earn my high school diploma.” Job Corps staff member Ellen Wagner helped Milly study for her exam and even administered the final test at the student’s hospital bedside. During her enrollment in Blue Ridge, located in Marion, Va., Milly also completed nursing assistant training and was certified by the Virginia Board of Nursing. “On behalf of the Department of Labor, I extend my deepest sympathies to Milly’s family,” said Solis. “Her extraordinary strength and courage to complete her education in the face of adversity will live in our hearts.”

Staff and students at Blue Ridge Job Corps Center not only made extreme efforts to help Millie obtain her high school diploma, but within 3 days, also raised over $1,300.00 to help Millie’s family with expenses incurred from travel and treatments.

It was a true Christmas gift!