Acknowlegements
I am deeply indebted to so many people without whom this project would never have been possible:
Dr. Mark Boda and Dr. Cynthia Long Westfall, whose patience, encouragement, and insight have been and continue to be a gift. Thank you for the opportunity to pursue my passion under your mentorship.
Dr. Daniel Block, Dr. Karen Jobes, and Dr. John Walton, who have each modeled faithful stewardship of your gifts and encouraged me along my own path. Thank you.
Dr. Ken Penner, whose insight has helped me to refine both my thinking and my expression. Thank you for the time that you invested to help me improve this project.
Dr. Stanley Porter, who accepted my manuscript for publication. Thank you for the opportunity to share my work with a wider audience.
Dr. Leonard Chiarelli and the J. Willard Marriott Library, who made the library resources at the University of Utah available to me when I moved to the area, enabling me to continue this research.
The women who ran the final miles of this project with me: Dr. Hannah Clardy, Dr. Mary Conway, Dr. Marieke Dhont, Valerie Hamilton, Dr. Carmen Imes, Dr. Megan Roberts, and Laura Robinson—your presence has been a true gift.
My parents, J. Robert and Sam Brown: without your love, encouragement, and support I would never have even embarked on this journey.
Bill and Barbara Jones, my parents-in-law: your belief in me and help with childcare at crucial moments made my work possible.
My sons, Connor and Mischa: your love, laughter, and smiles have brightened my days. Thank you for your love and patience.
Casey, my beloved husband with whom I am blessed to share my life: you alone know the true rigors and challenges of this journey. You have made great sacrifices and shared great joys. Words can never fully express my love for you. Thank you for sharing this adventure with me.
Soli Deo gloria,
Jennifer Brown Jones