iv
Dedication
I dedicate this dissertation to my family. I love you deeply with all my heart. To my
husband Kirk, you have been a listener and a supporter of all my endeavors. Your partnership,
steadfastness, and love sustain me. To my daughter, Grace, and my son, Noah, remember all
things are possible. Never be afraid to pursue your dreams and goals. You both are precious gifts
from the Lord. I love you without measure. Thank you for your patience as I pursued and
completed this degree. To my parents, thank you for raising your children to think for
themselves. I am grateful for my dad who always told me I could achieve anything I chose to do.
Finally, I dedicate this work to the Lord, God. All that I have, all that I am, and all that I do is
because of and for You.
