Army, Moffitt Cancer Center Join Forces to Provide Opportunities for Soldiers
Job LaQuerre is one of the newest soldiers in the U.S. Army. The King High School senior was one of five youths sworn in today during a special ceremony at Moffitt Cancer Center.
The event marks the cancer center joining the Partnership for Youth Success Program, a strategic partnership between the Army and a cross section of corporations, companies and public organizations. The goal is to help soldiers prepare for a career after the Army by connecting them with employers who understand the skills, discipline and work ethic that military service members bring to a business. Soldiers in the Partnership for Youth Success Program are guaranteed a job interview and possible employment after the Army with a program partner.
“It gives me confidence to know that whether I stay in the Army or leave, that there’s always going to be a place for me to go to,” said LaQuerre, who has a three-year contract with the Army.
Lt. Col. Mike Norton, battalion commander, Tampa Army Recruiting Battalion, and Dr. Patrick Hwu, president and CEO of Moffitt, signed the agreement welcoming Moffitt as the newest member of the program. More than 1,000 employers have partnered with the Army since the program began in 2000.
“Today is a win-win for our Army, Moffitt Cancer Center, our soldiers and this exceptional community,” said Norton.
“There’s no better job in my opinion than to be part of health care, whether clinical, research or administration. And there’s nothing more fulfilling than coming to work at Moffitt Cancer Center every day, and we hope that this partnership opens up opportunities for many deserving people. The Army is an amazing place to get talent because of all the skillsets and discipline,” said Hwu, who noted that Moffitt employs over 250 veteran team members.
Capt. Cory Dunlap, company commander, Tampa Recruiting Company, joined the ceremony, as well as Dr. Peter Tan and Luis “L.T.” Martinez, Civilian Aides to the Secretary of the Army, and other guests. The Tampa Recruiting Battalion Color Guard presented the colors, and LaWanda Byrd, director of Volunteer Services at Moffitt, sang the national anthem. Hwu and Norton solidified the new partnership by cutting a cake with a saber.
The highlight of the event was swearing in five new Army soldiers, including LaQuerre.
LaQuerre may be just beginning his time in the Army, but he knows he has many options for the future, thanks to the Partnership for Youth Success Program.
“I would recommend this for other students 100%,” said LaQuerre. “I think it’s a great opportunity for anyone wanting to start a career. This can really catapult you into becoming a successful young adult.”
To watch today’s ceremony, click here.
