Completing a degree of any kind, whether college-level, master ‘s-level, or doctoral-level, is a daunting task. And it is a task that cannot be accomplished on one’s own. Completion takes a village of people who will surround you with support, sound advice, sound editing, a cup of coffee, and sometimes even money to make it through to the end. For certain, it took a village to push me through the finish line. 

So, how do I even begin to thank my village? Trying to thank everyone is daunting enough, but here we go. I was able to include an acknowledgment section in my dissertation; however, we were only allowed so much room to thank folks. Below is my acknowledgments as printed in my dissertation. 

First and foremost, I give my deepest thanks to God Almighty, the source of all knowledge and wisdom, for His abundant blessings, guidance, and inspiration throughout this journey. His grace and mercy have sustained me each day. Completing this dissertation marks the culmination of a long path toward earning my doctorate, and I pray that this work will serve as a catalyst for helping others grow into the image of His Son.

I am especially grateful to Dr. Brad DeLaughter for encouraging me to begin the doctoral program. His initial support set this entire journey in motion.

I extend my sincere appreciation to my dissertation committee. The value of their guidance cannot be overstated. Dr. Donna Peavy and Dr. Michael Wang offered consistent encouragement and insightful feedback, particularly during my oral exam, which helped shape the direction of this work. I am especially indebted to my supervisor, Dr. David Odom, whose wisdom, expertise, and steady guidance supported me at every stage of the process.

I would also like to thank my best friend and pastor, Johnny Morgan, along with the faithful members of Live Oak Baptist Church, whose encouragement and financial support helped make this dream a reality.

I would like to thank Jarrod Hegwood, a trusted friend and confidant, who, on more than one occasion, helped talk me back from the ledge during the challenges of the doctoral and dissertation process. His steady support, perspective, and encouragement made a meaningful difference along the way.

I am deeply grateful to my mother for her unwavering support throughout my academic journey. Her patience, love, and constant encouragement have been a steady foundation for me.

Finally, I offer my heartfelt thanks to my wife, Caroline. This dissertation would not have been possible without your steadfast patience, encouragement, and belief in me, especially during the most difficult moments. I dedicate this work to you.

Now, this is far from an exhaustive list. There are many more people who played a part in helping me reach this milestone, and I am deeply grateful for each of them. The names below represent just a portion of the incredible village that carried me through this journey.

First, I would like to thank Dr. Randell Stone, who served as the head of the EdD program when I first began this journey. Dr. Stone encouraged me to move from pursuing a practical doctorate to a research doctorate, and I am incredibly thankful that he did. His wisdom, guidance, teaching, phone calls, and encouragement throughout the years helped shape both my academic journey and my confidence as a scholar.

Then there is Leah Turner, who coined the phrase around our church, “Almost Dr. Frank.” One year, that title even made its way onto my VBS name tag. Our former pastor, Bro. Howard, picked up the nickname and affectionately called me “Almost” for several years. It made the day even sweeter when, after my dissertation defense, he could finally call me “Doc.” Those moments of humor and encouragement brought joy during a long and demanding process.

To my coworkers, Mike and Donny, thank you for your prayers, playful banter, texts, phone calls, and constant support. Your encouragement helped lighten the load more times than you probably realize.

To the Eastern Louisiana Baptist Association scholarship team, thank you for considering me worthy to receive three separate scholarships throughout my doctoral journey. Your generosity and investment in my education helped make this accomplishment possible.

To Dr. Blue, one of my biggest cheerleaders, thank you for your constant encouragement and for your unforgettable phrase, “Sic’em in the name of Jesus!” Your enthusiasm and support always came at the right time.

To my Grow Group—Joe, Rebecca, Brant, Sandi, Dax, and Liz—thank you for listening to my struggles, hearing my ideas, and faithfully praying for me throughout this process. A special thanks to Joe and Rebecca for helping test the parent consent page for my research. Your willingness to help in even the smallest details meant so much.

I also want to especially thank Liz and Wyatt, who were the first to test taking the CSPP on my website just to make sure everything functioned properly. Your help and patience were greatly appreciated.

A huge thank you goes to the youth pastors who welcomed us into their Wednesday night youth groups to conduct interviews with their students. Without your cooperation and support, this dissertation and research would not have been possible. Thank you, Mike, Austin, Nathon, Cory, Cody, Ian, and Matt, for your willingness to invest in this project and for your assistance along the way.

Finally, to the many friends and family members who offered handshakes, high fives, prayers, encouraging words, and simple reminders to keep going—thank you. You are all part of the village that carried me through to the finish line. This achievement belongs not only to me, but to everyone who walked beside me throughout the journey.