ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Very few significant undertakings are solo performances, and the time and effort to obtain a doctoral degree require the support, interest, and collaboration of many individuals. I wish to acknowledge those people who have guided me along this path of achievement. I am eternally grateful to my dissertation committee, particularly Dr. Harrison, my original advisor, who worked tirelessly to serve as an advocate, mentor, and friend. Her patience will always be appreciated. Dr. Kotrlik, the co-chair of my committee, gave freely of his time and talents to help guide me during the writing of my dissertation. I thank Dr. Burnett for serving as an expert on my committee while already burdened with running the department. I would also like to thank the other members of my committee, Dr. Redmann and Dr. Maxcy, for their invaluable suggestions and time. A special thanks goes to my wife, Debora, for her conviction in supporting this entire effort. To my children, William II, Lauren, and James, who became experts at helping out at a moment's notice, thank you all. I am grateful to everyone mentioned above, because without their collective efforts, the research and especially the dissertation would not have been possible. i