Today is graduation day for me.  I hesitate to post something, because I have already been congratulated several times by so many of you.  But, I want to share my “Acknowledgment” page of my dissertation (I shared my dedication page a few weeks ago). I do this, because this accomplishment would not have happened without a team of people who believed in me and worked for me. No doubt, more people deserve to be acknowledged, but there was limit to space in the dissertation. I dedicated my work to my family, but they are rightfully acknowledged again. So to everyone on this list, THANK YOU in every way!

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

To Dr. Charles Lea, dissertation committee chair, thank you for your mentorship, encouragement, and friendship. You used your vast experience and network to help me succeed. This project would not have been a success without your excellent leadership.

To Dr. Bryan Carrier and Dr. C. William McKee, dissertation committee members, thank you for your guidance and encouragement throughout this process. Your contributions were key factors in my success.

To Mrs. Amy Heckman, your hard work and helpful attitude for this study were invaluable. I appreciate so much your professionalism and skill.

To Dr. Charles Gaulden, thank you for pushing me to pursue my doctorate at a time when I believed the dream had passed.  Your constant encouragement through this process has been a crucial guide.

To the leadership and people of The Church at Indian Lake, thank you for giving me the flexibility and shared resources to pursue this dream.

To my children, Abbey, Luke, and Lincoln, thank you for your understanding when I was distracted or not fully present for you during this project. I believe we have many years of great times together.

To my wife, Beth, your encouragement and support of me goes beyond what words can adequately express. You are my life partner, and I am so thankful we did this together.