In 1946, she became one of the first students from the Elsipogtog First Nation to complete her formal schooling, despite the lack of availability of educational facilities at the time.
She went on to complete three courses in adult education at the New Brunswick Community College, and became an instructor in the Mi'kmaq language to students in Big Cove Elementary School.
[1] Milliea went on to provide instruction in the Mi'kmaq language to communities outside Big Cove, and in 1975, was awarded 'Native Woman of the Year' in Canada.
Milliea developed one of the first curricula for teaching the Mi'kmaq language in the Maritimes,[2] and wrote several books about Mi'kmaq grammar and linguistics, including a compilation of common songs, rhymes, and hymns and other reference texts.
[6] In 1996, Milliea was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions to language and education, and was described as a "...role model for her people and an active community worker.