The Final Furlong

With 30 of 32 class meetings completed, we are quickly approaching the final furlong...and the finish line is nearly in site. It is this time when many students begin to complain of "senior-itis" and may even begin "operation shut-down." But, before I slip into cruise control I would like to reflect back on the last 2 1/2 years. So much has happened and so many people have lent support; it would be wrong to simply complete the course work portion of the degree and not "tip my cap" in appreciation.

I can not begin to reflect upon my education without considering the faculty members (and their assistants) who have touched my life in one fashion or another. *Thank you for making me a better student.* I must also thank family and friends for their support. *Thanks for your words, thoughts, and patience.* I'd also like to thank the great people/students I've met as part of the cohort. If I were asked today about the best part of the doctoral program...I could only respond by saying the students. My words of wisdom to future cohorts would be to get to know your classmates, they will be there to support you, encourage you, revel in your triumphs, and commiserate with you in your failures (see the Great "C" Massacre of SU-2008). *Thank you friends, the knowledge I gained from discussions with you at dinner, or at the Mountaineer or Genes is priceless.*

Finally, I have to thank the two people who have helped me the most; my son Simon and my wife Brandy. I've spent (and there are more to come) many evenings in front of the computer after a very long day at work. (Above is a picture of Simon at my post.) I've asked for some "alone time" so that I could get work done in a quiet house. And I've missed out on so much time, something that can never be brought back. I would apologize, but I know that they are not looking for an apology. They know that I am working hard to benefit us all...it is my only hope that I am able to "make good" on this dream. I know that I would not be racing to the end of my course work and looking forward to comps and writing a dissertation if it were not for their support. *Thank you Brandy and Simon, I love you so much.*