I want to acknowledge all those that played an instrumental role in my graduate studies while at Queens University of Charlotte. I have countless family, friends, colleagues, professors, and classmates that encouraged me along this journey. I want to thank Dr. Timothy J. Brown, dean of the James L. Knight School of Communication, for his contributions to my matriculation at Queens. I would also like to thank Dr. Jamie E. Bochantin for her guidance in preparation for my final inquiry project. Along with my other professors, Dr. Renee L. Cowan, Dr. Stavroula Kalogeras, Dr. Daina Nathaniel, and Dr. Tracy Schaffer. I am appreciative of the support you have given me. I am extending a special thank you for their support and guidance, my cousin Doug Sinning, friend Melissa Morris, educator Tierra Parsons, and David DuBose Market Manager and Chief Revenue Officer for Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa. Also, I would like to thank Glenn Walker and Doug James for crafting support letters of recommendation that assisted in my admissions to Queens University of Charlotte.
I dedicate this Master’s completion to my parents, Harold and Beatrice Schmitt, who were my biggest cheerleaders. Because of them, I understand the value of an education because they were not afforded the same opportunities that they made possible for me.
