It’s Friday!
That means we’re counting down to the August 9th 6th Fall scholarship deadline with a new series of blog posts.
Lydia Gallegos, an IT specialist with the U.S. Forest Service/Department of Agriculture and vice president of IAM-National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) Local 2196, isn’t necessarily earning dual degrees at the NLC to make more money or to get a promotion.
“I really believe that the knowledge I’ve gained at the NLC will help me create a better work environment, resolve issues in the workplace and improve communication among employees and management,” says Lydia.
Lydia is now in her final semester and plans to receive her diplomas at this year’s NLC commencement ceremony.
A Journey Decades in the Making
Lydia, from Albuquerque, NM, became a union member in 1994, and has held a host of leadership positions, including serving as secretary-treasurer, vice president, president and steward.
Like many students, she didn’t know what she wanted to do when she graduated from high school so she put off college. In fact, it wasn’t until 15 years after receiving her high school diploma that Lydia set out to earn an Associate’s Degree from the University of New Mexico.
Along the way she discovered her life’s passion: protecting workers’ rights through collective bargaining.
With her associate’s degree in hand, Lydia contacted the National Labor College to find out what earning a bachelor’s degree from NLC would entail.
You definitely get support when you attend the National Labor College.
Scholarships for NLC Students
“The faculty wants you to succeed and the Union Plus Scholarship makes the cost of education so much more affordable, especially for single parents. The scholarship helped me with tuition, which kept my degree plans on track.”
Scholarships for the Fall semester are available to help your dreams of completing a degree come true, make sure you apply by August 6th 9th to qualify for federal financial aid and scholarships.
This was part of the Fulfill Your Dreams at NLC series.
Updated 4/23/12
National Labor College Community 
Edwina Agu said:
Thats great congratulations. I am working with NLC right now to consolidate transcripts and decide on a course of study. It is such a great opportunity I’m conflicted between several program areas. Best of luck!
Anonymous said:
Thank you, Edwina. Best of luck to you in your pursuit at NLC. This is an awesome institution!
Anonymous said:
Fantastic achievement Lydia! This is really beneficial for your future and will be a significant trampoline into your upcoming endevors.
Jason Reynolds said:
Congrats Lydia! I always stress to my kids that knowledge is power and education is key. The more you know, the better you can serve others through understanding and experience. The degree also tells employers and colleagues that you are willing to learn. An open mind will be significant in your roles in NFFE and the FS. I love hearing of these accomplishments!
Nick Pappas said:
Education, it’s the only thing that others cannot take away from you once you earn it.
Lester Loving said:
Congratuations Lydia! Glad to hear you are going to get your degree.
PE Leyba said:
Way to go Lydia, I am proud of you!!!
Anonymous said:
You are awesome! CONGRATS!
Anonymous said:
Congrats Lydia! Way to go. To a person who I always new was capable of following her dreams. Best of Luck . Lve Frances Trujillo, Retired officer of NFFE Region 3
Susan Chavez said:
Congratulations Lydia, Continue with your dream. In whatever you decide to do, you will do a wonderful job. Your such a wonderful person and very helpful. Thank you for all your help. Susan Chavez
David Hollins said:
Congratulations Lydia, thanks for sharing your inspiring story.
Richard del Hierro said:
Congrats Lyndia…. Richard del Hierro
Anonymous said:
Congratulations Lydia! God Bless You Always!
Sam Nevarez -NFFE Local 2200 President said:
I am so proud of you Lydia, you inspire not only me but many other brothers and sisters! Thank you for all you do as a leader in NFFE. You Rock!!!!