I am also grateful to my mother Cynthia and stepfather, George Capewell. I could have

never come this far without them. My life would not be complete without the love and support of

my sisters Tori and Shana. I would also like to thank Darryl Lowery for his support during the

final stages of my dissertation.

 Lastly, I want to thank my dad, Mark H. Rodman, who passed away suddenly before he

could celebrate this joyous occasion with me. I also thank my stepmother, Kathy Rodman, who

was able to put up with my father's ceaseless energy and made him a truly happy man. My father

knew how to live life to the fullest and did not waste a single day. I dedicate my work to his

memory.