Acknowledgments

It is with sincerest gratitude that I thank the people who have helped me become a better teacher. Dr. Madalienne Peters encouraged me for years to take the big step. Her tireless encouragement was the catalyst for me to enter the master's program at Dominican University. Dr. Peters ’ belief in me all throughout the program has given me the courage to continue when, at times, I felt lost. She has seen me through every step of the way and was always there to help me. Thank you so much, Dr. Peters. I also wish to thank Dr. Sarah Zykanov who led me along the path of Courage to Teach. She has given me advice and encouragement all along the way. Dr. Zykanov would spend extra time helping me whenever I needed it. My wife has been the wind beneath my wings; she has not only encouraged me, but believed in me more than I believed in myself at times. She, too, had encouraged and coaxed me for years to attempt what I had never imagined possible. She listened to my frustrations, read my proofs, offered advice, and, of course, was my reference librarian. Forgive the mixed metaphor, for she is not only the wind beneath my wings, but she is also the rock I lean on. How blessed and grateful I am