Acknowledgments

I have dreams that will set the world on a new course, one of equity and fairness to all. These dreams come to my heart and soul by way of a Great Spirit, the true living God. This Spirit connects with me and is gracious, generous, and kind. It empowers my every thought, action, and deed. I am deeply grateful to have this connection so that I can live out my dreams daily.

I am grateful for my kind and selfless husband, Arthur. He is relentless in supporting and helping me achieve my goals and aspirations. Having his support allows me to complete projects like this edited volume. My mother, Mildred Smith Lawson, raised me to believe in myself, and, for her guidance and love, I am truly appreciative.

I also acknowledge my wonderful children, Alexis, Adrienne, and Brandon; my siblings, Ellen, Mildred, Ronald, and Jeanie; and extended family and close friends. I am greatly appreciative to have them all in my life. To family and ancestors who have transitioned, I also acknowledge your positive influence in my life.

In closing, I recognize my wonderful colleagues around the world who work every day to make a difference for children who are too often overlooked. I thank you for your commitment to these children.

– Joy Lawson Davis

This edited volume would not have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement from others. First, I owe a tremendous debt to my remarkable wife, Stephanie M. Moore, and our three kids, James IV, Sienna Ava, and Sienna Marie-Ann. Second, I extend a heartfelt acknowledgment to my beloved mother, Edna M. Moore (1954–2011); two outstanding siblings, Marcus T. Moore and Dr. S. Rochelle Sullivan; brother-in-law, Maurice W. Sullivan; sister-in-law, Melanie Moore; and nephew, Weston Miles Sullivan. Third, I offer a special thanks to other close family: Aunt Frances Anderson, Uncle WC Anderson, Uncle Tommy Miller, Aunt Maude Miller, and Kenneth L. E. Anderson. Fourth, I extend a big thank you to my mentors, Dr. James Scott King, Dr. Thomas Hohenshil, Dr. Johnny McFadden, Dr. Bevlee A. Watford, Dr. Mac A. Stewart, and Dr. Valerie Lee. Fifth, I acknowledge my wonderful staff and students at The Ohio State University’s Todd Anthony Bell National Resource Center on the African American Male, such as Omotayo O. Adeeko, and my other close colleagues and students (current and former) in the College of Education and Human Ecology and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Sixth, I extend a hearty thanks to other close colleagues: Dr. Lamont A. Flowers, Dr. Jerlando F. L. Jackson, Dr. Chance W. Lewis, Dr. Donna Y. Ford, and Dr. Kenard Sanders. Seventh, I thank the authors for their contributions to this edited volume. Eighth, I thank Emerald Press for selecting this edited volume for inclusion in its book series. Ninth, but not least, I express gratitude to God for blessing me with the opportunity to complete another book project. Hopefully, there will be many more opportunities to publish future books.

– James L. Moore III