tremendous amount from each of these great teachers, both in their courses and during the completion of my dissertation. I also would like to acknowledge the efforts of my parents who taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance. While I did not learn those lessons quickly, I finally got them. I am also grateful for an older brother and little sister who always pushed me to be better. And most importantly of all, I need to express gratitude for my wife, Lindsey and my children, Sydney, Annabel, Sophie, Grace and Isaac, who have constantly supported me through three graduate degrees. Thank you for the long nights and weekends when you took care of things at home while I immersed myself in my studies. This would not and could not have been possible without your constant love, support, and encouragement. I love each of you more than I can ever express.