~Acknowledgments~


~Special thanks to my wonderful parents, who gave much love & sacrificed greatly for all of us so that we may live a better life. Much of the time they would go without so that all of us would be comfortable and happy. Their continued devotion & sacrifice throughout their entire lives will always live on in my heart.

~to Prof. Baker (a great calculus teacher) who taught me calculus I, II, & III at HVCC, Troy, NY. He was an outstanding person and a remarkable educator. His explanations of complex concepts were made very understandable to all who were fortunate to have him as a professor.

~to Henry Graham (retired math coordinator at Arlington High School). He was the catalyst that set the path that would eventally shape my teaching career in the field of mathematics. His expert guidance & knowlege during my initial phases of teaching would solidify the foundations which are at the roots of my backgound. I feel fortunate to have worked with him & am totally grateful for everything he did during the formative years of my teaching.

~to Brother Donald Kelly, PhD. Former professor of mathematics, Marist College. My wonderful Irish friend who reached out and assisted me during my initial phases of on-campus teaching. I will always remember our great conversations and his great sense of humor. He was truly a wonderful person and I feel fortunate to have known him.

~to Richard McGovern, PhD. Former professor of mathematics, Marist College. One of the most intelligent persons I've ever known. When at Marist College, he always had the answers to the most difficult and complicated mathematical questions that I would ask him. His knowledge and insight into mathematics was very helpful to me in my teaching. Richard devoted most of his life to helping students better appreciate and understand the beauty of mathematics. He was a wonderful and friendly individual who will be truly missed by everyone who knew him. A truly remarkable person.

~Special thanks to the very hard-working Administrative Assistants at Marist who never get the recognition they deserve.