[3] In 1890, when John W. Cook became the president of Illinois State Normal University, Felmley took over his position as the professor of mathematics.

[5] Felmley believed that everyone deserved a high school education, even those who did not plan to attend college or university.

[5] Felmley wanted the school to focus on pedagogy and professional teacher preparation, and was thus unconcerned with faculty credentials.

They suffered from persistent underfunding and were at risk of being relegated due to other state universities and private colleges offering teaching degrees.

[7] Felmley led the charge to turn normal schools in Illinois into four year baccalaureate institutions.

[9] In 1907, ISNU was converted into a four-year baccalaureate institution, issuing bachelors of education degrees to its graduates.

The enrollment rate of the university was a consistent issue, especially after more normal schools opened in DeKalb, Macomb, and Charleston.

"[18] Shortly before his death, Felmley submitted his resignation as president of ISNU to the Normal School Board due to his physical health.

[3] After his death, ISNU students volunteered to guard his body as it lay in repose on campus prior to burial.