Genelle Guzman-McMillan
Last survivor rescued from World Trade Center collapse on 9/11
Genelle Guzman-McMillan is an American survivor of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City. Working as an administrative assistant on the 64th floor of the North Tower, Guzman-McMillan was in the building when American Airlines Flight 11 struck. As the towers collapsed, she became trapped under the rubble of the North Tower, buried beneath concrete, steel, and debris. For approximately 27 hours, she remained trapped in the darkness before rescue workers discovered her and successfully extracted her from the wreckage. She was the last person pulled alive from the ruins of the Twin Towers, making her rescue a powerful symbol of hope during the tragedy. Following her rescue, Guzman-McMillan has become a noted speaker and author, sharing her story of survival and resilience. Her experience and recovery have made her an important witness to one of America's most significant events, and she has dedicated much of her life since to speaking about her experience and honoring those lost.
Historical Figure
American
1977
Thinking about the name
Genelle
French origin
“A sophisticated variant that doubles the L in -elle, a classic French feminine ending seen in names like Michelle and Danielle. The name elevates Gene into a more formal, elegant register while maintaining approachability. It feels refined yet accessible.”