Present struggles are often essential for future success.

For Ramen Felumlee, who earned a degree in integrated social studiesin 2024fromCedarville University, his path led to an unexpected yet deeply fulfilling role. Now a financial literacyteacher andassistant cross countrycoach at anurban high schoolin Dayton, Ohio, he has found a way to merge his passion for running with his heart for mentorship.

Felumlee was a standout cross countryathlete at Cedarville. During the 2021 indoor track season, he helped the Yellow Jackets win the distance medley relay at the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC)championship. That same year, he became the G-MAC champion in the mile, and, as a senior,he and his teammates set a school record in the distance medley relay(9:42) at Grand Valley State University. Their continued success led to more record-breaking performances and propelled the team to secure seventh place at the National Collegiate Athletic Association(NCAA) Division II indoornational meet, earning All-American honors.

After graduation, Felumlee spent the entire summer searching for a teaching position.He sent out applications, hopeful and eager, only to face rejection at every turn. It was not the path he had envisioned, but it was the one leading him to where he needed to be.

In July 2024, Felumlee sent hisrunning resume to a cross country coach at Trotwood-Madison High School in Dayton.The head coachtook notice, and soon,Felumlee was offered not only anassistant coaching role but also a teaching position.

Now, Felumlee’s classroom is filled with students facing obstacles far greater than any race he has ever run.Many come from low-income households, struggle with academics, and face daily challenges such as chronic absenteeism and the threat of gang violence.

“I make an effort to be mindful of my students’backgrounds through open communication and by being a positive role model for them,” said Felumlee. “Hearing students call me their favorite teacher and say how much they enjoy my class makes every moment in my life worthwhile.”

Felumlee knows firsthand the power of perseverance. Throughout his cross country career, he battled multiple foot injuries that tested his mental and physical strength. As he leanedon his teammates, they forged an unbreakable bond that drove them to success.Now, as a coach, Felumlee strives to create that same sense of camaraderie among his athletes.

Through both teaching and coaching, Felumlee hopes to inspire his students,forging relationships that help them apply their lessons — both academic and athletic — to life beyond the classroom.

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christianinstitution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.