How much difference can an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy make in a student’s life? For Ruth and Paul Manwaring, the answer is clear: it can change everything. Their story is one of faith, service, and dedication, and their presence on campus embodies the spirit of guidance and love that makes Cumorah Academy unique.
Ruth, originally from Rexburg, Idaho, and Paul, raised primarily in Idaho after being born in Salt Lake City, bring a blend of experience and wisdom that resonates with students from around the world. Their journey to Cumorah Academy shows how their choices reflected trust in God’s timing, even when the path wasn’t straightforward.
This is the story of how Ruth and Paul became an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy and why their example continues to inspire.
The Importance of an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy
At Cumorah Academy, mentorship isn’t a side note—it’s central to the entire experience. Every student is given the chance to work closely with mentors who not only provide guidance but also offer love, accountability, and encouragement.
Ruth and Paul meet individually with students, helping them align their goals, define their purpose, and make decisions that reflect their values. Their approach isn’t about telling students what to do—it’s about asking thoughtful questions, listening deeply, and offering clarity when the path seems uncertain.
As Paul explains, “Trust the process, and trust God.” Ruth adds, “This is one of the most beautiful settings in the world… And you can come and let your life be changed in a beautiful setting.”
Their combined message reminds students that Cumorah Academy isn’t just a school—it’s a place where lives are transformed. And the presence of an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy makes that transformation possible.
Professional Experience and a Life of Service
Ruth’s professional path began in communications and public relations. After graduating from BYU, she used her skills in freelance work, in church assignments, and eventually in schools. She loved being close to her children during their growing years and found joy in small roles that allowed her to balance work and family life.
Education and faith are part of Paul’s career. After earning his degree at BYU, he began teaching seminary in Salt Lake City. His love for teaching and desire to grow led him back for a master’s degree, then later a PhD. With his advanced training, he became a seminary and institute director, working in Southern California and Idaho. His work wasn’t only about teaching scripture—it was about mentoring young people, building communities of faith, and preparing students for meaningful futures.
This professional background became the foundation of their role at Cumorah Academy. Having lived lives dedicated to both education and spiritual growth, they naturally embody the mission of an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy.
A Life Full of Adventure and Faith
Outside of work, Ruth and Paul’s lives have been full of travel, adventure, and family. Paul grew up playing many sports, with football holding a special place in his heart. Over time, he developed a love for water skiing, camping, hiking, and exploring nature. Ruth and Paul together expanded their sense of adventure through scuba diving, snorkeling, and travel.
They’ve climbed mountains like Mount Fuji, explored sacred places in the Holy Land, and directed tours that allowed others to connect with scripture in meaningful ways. For several years, they also taught in Japan, an experience that enriched their cultural understanding and deepened their commitment to teaching.
What students at Cumorah quickly see is that their mentors don’t just teach principles—they live them. The combination of Ruth and Paul’s personal experiences makes them relatable, grounded, and approachable. At Cumorah Academy, an Advisory Couple demonstrates their power by offering wisdom that comes from lived experience, not theory
Discovering Cumorah Academy
Their journey to Cumorah Academy began unexpectedly. After retirement, Ruth and Paul planned to teach in China through a BYU program. When circumstances shifted—particularly due to the global pandemic—they found themselves in Japan instead.
It was through these connections, particularly with Kelly Shepherd and other mentors, that they first heard about Cumorah Academy. Intrigued by its mission and inspired by the Christ-centered environment, they decided to join.
Their decision wasn’t about convenience or ease. It was about following where they felt called to serve, even if the path wasn’t clear. That sense of trust has shaped every step of their journey.
A Place Set Apart
One of the things Ruth and Paul love most about Cumorah Academy is the environment itself. Set apart from the distractions of the world, the Academy offers a space for reflection, focus, and spiritual growth.
As Ruth beautifully puts it, “This is one of the most beautiful settings in the world… And you can come and let your life be changed in a beautiful setting.”
Students arriving at Cumorah quickly notice this difference. Away from the noise of modern life, they find clarity, peace, and purpose. It’s an atmosphere where mentorship becomes even more powerful, because both mentors and students can focus fully on what matters most.
That’s the value of having an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy—they help create and protect that sacred space of growth.
Lessons for Students
Ruth and Paul’s counsel for students is simple yet profound. Paul emphasizes faith: “Trust the process, and trust God.” His message is a reminder that personal development isn’t instant—it unfolds step by step, in God’s timing.
Ruth focuses on the importance of the environment and openness. Her message encourages students to fully embrace the unique setting of Cumorah, knowing that this environment can spark real change.
Together, their advice blends trust, faith, and awareness. It’s not just about reaching goals—it’s about becoming the kind of person who can navigate uncertainty with confidence.
Lasting Impact Beyond the Semester
One of the most beautiful aspects of mentorship at Cumorah Academy is that it doesn’t end when the semester finishes. Students often stay in touch with their mentors long after leaving campus, continuing to seek guidance and encouragement.
For Ruth and Paul, this long-term connection is part of their legacy. Their willingness to invest in students’ lives ensures that the lessons learned at Cumorah ripple outward—into families, careers, and communities.
Years from now, many students will remember sitting across from Ruth and Paul, hearing words of encouragement, and feeling truly seen and supported. That’s the role of an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy—not just to guide for a season, but to plant seeds that grow for a lifetime.
A Legacy of Service and Love
At the heart of Ruth and Paul’s story is love: love for God, love for students, and love for the work of guiding others toward growth. Their journey—from Idaho to California, from Japan to Cumorah—reflects a willingness to serve wherever they are needed.
They remind us that mentorship is more than advice. It’s about presence, example, and encouragement. Ruth and Paul bless Cumorah students not only through their words, but through who they are.
Their story shows that the impact of an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy extends far beyond the classroom. It changes the way students see themselves, their futures, and their faith.
Your Invitation
Every young adult deserves a mentor who believes in them, challenges them, and helps them see what’s possible. That’s what Ruth and Paul give their students every day at Cumorah Academy.
If you’re ready to be guided by mentors who combine professional wisdom, spiritual insight, and genuine care, Cumorah Academy is waiting for you.Apply now and begin your journey with an Advisory Couple at Cumorah Academy — where faith, leadership, and purpose come together to prepare you for the life you were meant to live.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
