Add to ORKGFirst and foremost, I would like to give special thanks to my beloved advisor, Mel Hochster, for generously giving me his advice, ideas and encouragement. I am grateful to all of my committee members for their time and effort. I would like to give special thanks to Karl Schwede for many helpful discussions and suggestions. I would also like to thank Craig Huneke, Gennady Lyubeznik, and Karen Smith for the help and inspiration they gave me, both indirectly and directly. For teaching me everything I know about teaching I wish to thank Karen Rhea. I have had a wonderful time as a graduate student in the University of Michigan math department. I want to thank Doreen, Tara, Warren and all of the wonderful U of M staff. For their support, friends...