Exploring franchise boards : a stakeholder perspective.

Abstract

DEDICATIONThis dissertation is dedicated my father. Although his formal education ceased after 8 th grade, his love for learning lasted a lifetime.In memory of Joseph C. Cumberland, 1913Cumberland, -1975 iii ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I want to acknowledge my best friend and life partner, Dennis P. Whittington, whose support over the last three years has allowed me to have laser focus on achieving my dream of earning a Ph.D. I want to thank Megan and Ryan, my children, who helped me laugh along the way, especially at the absurdity of having index cards taped to my bathroom mirror as I studied for comprehensive exams.My heartfelt thanks to my program committee, whose coaching and advice helped me travel the yellow brick road on the journey to the land of Ph.D. Dr. Sharon A.