This could not be possible without the support of Dr. David Carbonara, who
accepted chairing my committee at a point where I seriously began to unravel. I won’t
forget his early advice to me as I was thinking about the doctoral program at Duquesne.
As he drew a Venn Diagram on scrap paper, he told me that after hundreds of hours of
reading, I would find that one area of education that little literature addressed…..and
magically, voila!-that would be my research topic. Since I completed my Masters work at
Duquesne, I must personally thank Dr. Mary Fran Grasinger who has played such an
important role in my studies. Having her spiritual and professional support on my
committee has been so appreciated as well. Even hundreds of miles away, I can feel her
nurturing spirit, support and confidence in me. I would also like to truly thank Dr. Rose
Mary Mautino and Dr. Wayne Brinda, my “wordsmith”, who have both helped me in this
journey. You all have been not only mentors for me but role models as I continue striving
professionally in education. Dr. Kush, thank you for your constant interest during my
journey. Duquesne University is so very fortunate to have a department and faculty like
yours.