Special thanks and recognition to few of the many people that have helped me along the way:

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My wonderful parents, Billy and Karen Highsmith:

Thank you for your love, support, and encouraging words that I call to hear everyday

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My loving church family, Hickory Grove A.M.E. Zion Church & my A.M.E. Zion Church friends:

Thank you for being more than just regular church members, but more like family. I am so grateful for your prayers and kind words to make this journey a little bit easier

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My awesome advisor, Dr. Exazevia Logan:

Thank you so much for your patience and helpful advice to keep me focused and on the right track

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My brilliant WSSU professors (especially Drs. Farmer, Mathews, Overholt, Bhat, Steed, & Jones):

Thank you so much for sharing in knowledge which allowed me to build a solid foundation

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My amazing co-workers at Trinity Elms Assisted Living:

Thank you for your encouragement, and always lending a listening ear, and a helping hand. Teamwork makes the dreamwork!

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If I failed to mention anyone who has helped me significantly on this journey, please charge it to my head, not to my heart.

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