Special acknowledgments to my dissertation chair, Dr. Lindsay Portnoy. While the start of this program was rocky, you jumped right in and helped me sort things out while dedicating precious time from your schedule to holding my hands to get through every stage of this academic journey.To my second readers, Dr. Shannon Alpert and Dr. Wendy Crocker, your valuable time and insights are undeniably noticed and appreciated.To my stakeholder group, collaborators, mentors, and collaborators, your encouraging words, professional insights, and knowledge have contributed significantly to this remarkable place of my journey. It takes a village to accomplish anything one wishes to do.To all my friends and family members, your unwavering support did not go unnoticed. Chanda, Stevenson, and Laurent, you never stop telling the world about my work, which always warms my heart. To Woo-D, I express my deepest thanks. Thanks for setting up an environment of learning and innovation at our home. You always amaze me with your support and interest in my work. Your regular check-ins on my research progress, top-chef meals, and random acts of kindness are what I needed during this journey. I love you immensely.The Lord has always been my guide; thank you for directing me with the Holy Spirit and keeping me leveled and on solid ground whenever I feel lost and about to stumble on a rocky road. You have sent numerous angels to light my path and lead me to green pastures with a clear mind.