Diversity and Inclusion Matters

Acknowledgments

The artwork on the cover is from my son Justus who also happens to be dyslexic. He is not an artist, but he won an art competition in the fourth grade. (Justus graduated from college about three years ago.) My favorite memory of the art competition is that Justus's teacher was very emotional at the event because Justus thanked her for helping him. Apparently, none of her previous students had thanked her. Sometimes it is the simplest gesture that can be very powerful. This was a reminder for me to thank those who have helped me along the way.

I would like to thank Dr. Dolores Saucedo Cardona, my first mentor and the one who helped start my career with her belief in me. That gift of confidence is the seed that planted my career. I would like to thank my mom for her silent strength even when there was no reason to get back up. My brother Jarred because he sacrificed his happiness to give me happiness in a home that often did not have much hope. My big sister “Jo” because she could see a little boy that needed a big sister.

Writing a book is big task, so I want to thank Deb Eldridge for her edits and time. This book was an idea, but it needed focus, and Deb helped us find that path.

I want to thank my son and daughter, Justus and Piper. In life you get many gifts, and some of the gifts change your life. Justus and Piper have been the gifts that changed my life. They have given me perspective, laughs, memories, and the understanding of love that only comes with ...