Student Spotlight Darius Redman
Major:
Physical Education and Kinesiology
Minor: Special Education
Class:
2025
Hometown:
Keyser, W.Va.
Redman finds authentic self at WVU on path to leading others
Darius Redman came to WVU unsure of his path, but found his purpose through mentorship, field experience, and meaningful community connections. From student placements to coaching at Suncrest Middle School, he discovered the power of presence and positivity in education. A first-generation college graduate, Redman plans to take his Mountaineer skills and pride south to teach and coach cross country and track and field.
Why did you choose WVU and the College of Applied Human Sciences?
I came to WVU as a transfer student from Potomac State, and I was undecided. WVU is close to my family, and watching Tavon Austin play here pushed my love not only for sports but for the school.
What do you think separates the PEK program from others?
What sets this program apart is how helpful the professors and administration are. They build true professional relationships and networks within the program. It’s not often you email a professor and get a response the same day.
What hands-on or real-world experiences did you have during your time in the program, and how did they shape your approach to your career?
The field experience hours with my student placement taught me a lot. I got thrown in the deep end and was expected to swim. I learned that not everything is going to work, and having backup plans is key. Things happen, but staying calm and doing what’s safest—while keeping it a positive learning environment—is what matters.
You’ve also coached at Suncrest Middle School and supported track and field programs. What have those community experiences meant to you?
The community experiences have meant a lot. They’ve helped me build great connections with great people. When I came in three years ago, they showed me nothing but love and positivity. It was joyful to see how they embraced my interaction with the athletes.
How have your experiences reinforced that you’re on the right career path?
The professional relationships I’ve built with students have shown me I’m where I need to be. I try to be the best part of their day every time they see me—even if it doesn’t always work out. Sometimes, my interaction might be the only one they have all day, so I always keep in mind that you never know what a student’s home life is like. I try to be a reason they smile.
Who has been the most influential person during your time at WVU?
It’s hard to narrow down to one person. At WVU: James Wyant, Emi Tsuda, Lauren Machamer, and Jung Hun Han have all influenced me.
Outside of WVU, it’s my uncle Buck Brooks. He’s been a role model for our family and set me up for success by bringing me in and showing me the ropes. He taught me the value of hard work, and looking back, that’s one of the best things that ever happened to me.
What challenge or obstacle did you face during your time at WVU, and how did you overcome it?
I went through an identity crisis. I spent so much time trying to be someone else that I never looked in the mirror and helped myself. By standing up and facing it, I overcame it. Taking the time to truly find and love who I am was one of the biggest challenges.
What does earning this degree mean to you or your family?
Earning this degree means everything. I was a 2020 high school graduate and didn’t even get a high school graduation. When I graduated from Potomac State, only a few family members could attend. So getting to walk the stage now means more than anything. Being a first-generation college graduate makes it even more personal. My grandmother isn’t here to see me graduate, so this degree is for her, too.
What’s next for you after graduation?
I plan to move south and continue teaching and coaching cross country and sprints in track. I’ve always wanted to live in the Carolinas, so now I’m working to make that a reality.
What’s the best thing about being a Mountaineer?
The best thing about being a Mountaineer is the pride that we all carry. We don’t just represent the school, we carry the whole state. It’s amazing to be from a place as beautiful as West Virginia.