McDaniel classes helped Russ Morin launch an enterprise to help cyclists with dwarfism.

For several years, Russ Morin had worked at the same bike shop on Solomon’s Island, helping cyclists sort through their many choices. It was a good way to keep busy and earn a few dollars.

The Business Administration major never imagined that a chance encounter with a customer would lead him to launch his own business, chart a new career path and champion a new cause.

As Morin recalls, the customer asked whether it was possible to get an affordable bike that would allow her – a little person, or one who has any of the more than 200 forms of dwarfism – to ride comfortably.

His success inspired him to design a Jan Term course that enabled him to turn his newfound skill into a business venture. He earned national certification as a bicycle mechanic. “Being at McDaniel allowed me to customize,” he said. “I know of no other school that would’ve allowed me to earn credit for taking a course to become a bike mechanic.”

Morin also credits a class in entrepreneurship that he took during his sophomore year with giving him the confidence to develop a business plan, create his website and launch Little Cycles.