My Dissertation Journey

Dr. Thomas Green A Dream Deferred; A Dream Achieved

My Disserta�on Journey 1

A Dream Deferred, A Dream Achieved: My Disserta�on Journey

By Dr. Thomas Green Copyright 2024 2

Dedica�on Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

To God be the glory for the things He has done.

I dedicate this book to the heritage of the Buntley and Green families, represen�ng my roots and legacy. To those who may have suffered from health dispari�es born from systemic inequi�es, this work is a tribute to your resilience.

To my wife, Dr. Shirley J.A. Green, whose unwavering support and encouragement were my founda�on, and to my children, Courtney and Thomas Jr., and grandson Simba, who inspire me daily to dream bigger and work harder.

Finally, to my parents, who, despite not comple�ng high school, ins�lled in me the value of educa�on and the importance of faith. This journey is for you.

3

Acknowledgments

This book reflects the collec�ve support of mentors, family, and friends who believed in me even when I doubted myself.

I am deeply grateful to my disserta�on team, including Dr. Guillermo Montes, Dr. Yvete Conyers, and Dr. Shannon Cleverley-Thompson, for their guidance and exper�se.

To my wife, Dr. Shirley J.A. Green, thank you for reminding me to trust the process. To my children and grandson, thank you for mo�va�ng me to create a legacy.

Special thanks to my Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brothers and my Saturday wri�ng group for their camaraderie and encouragement.

Finally, a hear�elt acknowledgment to my execu�ve mentors, Dr. Torrence Sparkman and Dr. Janice Harbin, whose wisdom guided me toward success.

4

Introduc�on

“What happens to a dream deferred?” Langston Hughes' poignant ques�on has been a guiding principle in my journey as a scholar, leader, and advocate.

This book chronicles my path from a young boy in Rochester’s inner city to earning a Doctorate in Execu�ve Leadership. It is more than a personal narra�ve; it is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the pursuit of collec�ve equity.

Through my experiences, I hope to inspire others to confront systemic barriers, embrace educa�on, and believe in the transforma�ve power of leadership. Together, we can rise, advocate, and create a more equitable world.

5

Table of Contents

Sec�on 1: Introduc�on Sec�on 2: Roots and Resilience: My Upbringing Sec�on 3: The Path to Educa�on Sec�on 4: The Influence of Brotherhood Sec�on 5: St. John Fisher University and Its Mission Sec�on 6: Star�ng the Disserta�on Journey Sec�on 7: The Books, Bible, and Hymns That Guided Me Sec�on 8: Swimming Across the River: An Analogy for the Disserta�on Journey Sec�on 9: Mental Health: An Unspoken Journey Sec�on 10: Conclusion: Make Your Minute Count Appendix A Reflec�on Ques�ons Appendix B: Reflec�on Worksheet Appendix C: References

6

Sec�on 1: Introduc�on

“What happens to a dream deferred?” asked Langston Hughes in his iconic poem. For many, the American dream can feel distant, out of reach—especially for those like me, a Black man raised in the inner city. Yet, through every struggle and triumph, I stand as living proof that the pursuit of knowledge, equity, and leadership is worth every sacrifice.

This is not just my disserta�on journey; it is a testament to perseverance, faith, and a deep commitment to a beter world. As Scripture reminds us in Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This promise carried me through every stage of my journey and culminated in earning a Doctor of Educa�on (Ed.D.) in Execu�ve Leadership from St. John Fisher University.

My doctoral disserta�on, “We Are All in This Together: Examining the Perspec�ves of Community Leaders Par�cipa�ng in Health Coali�ons to Address Health Dispari�es,” reflects my unwavering commitment to addressing systemic inequi�es affec�ng marginalized popula�ons.

This work underscores the importance of collec�ve ac�on and leadership in crea�ng equitable outcomes for all. To fully understand the significance of this achievement, it is essen�al to reflect on the 7

roots that shaped my path and the values that guided me along the way.

8

Sec�on 2: Roots and Resilience: My Upbringing

My story begins in Rochester, New York, where I was born during a �me of significant racial and social upheaval. The year 1964 marked the Rochester Race Riots, fueled by systemic racism, police brutality, and the chronic disenfranchisement of Black residents. These events shaped my early environment, giving me a firsthand view of inequi�es that later informed my life’s mission.

I grew up during my forma�ve years in a single-parent household with my mother, older brother, and younger sister. Despite not comple�ng high school, my mother worked �relessly to ensure we had our basic needs met.

She demonstrated unwavering strength, resilience, and faith, crea�ng a

"It’s not where you come from; it’s where you’re going that counts."

—Ella Fitzgerald

founda�on for the values that guide me today.

Although my parents separated when I was young, my mother encouraged my father’s con�nued presence in our lives, believing that his involvement matered. I believe I inherited my perseverance from my mother, whose unwavering strength and determina�on shaped our family, and my resourcefulness from my father, a "jack of all trades" known for his ability to fix almost anything. Together, their influence ins�lled in me a deep apprecia�on for resilience and ingenuity. Their 9

combined influence taught me the importance of family, perseverance, and the ability to rise above circumstances.

We lived in the inner city and atended public schools, where opportuni�es were not always guaranteed. However, mentors and teachers took an interest in me, encouraging my poten�al and helping me envision a future beyond the challenges I faced. These early experiences shaped my character and planted the seeds of a lifelong commitment to educa�on and leadership.

This belief in educa�on as a bridge to opportunity would become the cornerstone of my life’s path. However, this path was far from linear—it required persistence and courage at every turn.

10

Sec�on 3: The Path to Educa�on

A�er gradua�ng high school, I was strongly influenced by my aunt Johnneta, who encouraged me to atend SUNY Brockport. This decision marked the beginning of my academic journey, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Upon gradua�on, I embarked on a 20"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

—Nelson Mandela

year career with the City of Rochester, progressing from computer programmer to Director of the IT Department. Despite professional success, my academic

ambi�ons didn’t end there. I pursued a master’s degree in strategic leadership at Roberts Wesleyan College. This decision was inspired, in part, by observing Black men in my church family, members of the divine nine fraterni�es, and the broader community who had already earned advanced degrees. Their accomplishments became a powerful source of mo�va�on, driving me to aim higher and exemplify the wisdom of the proverb, “Iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

During this �me, my wife, Dr. Shirley Green, and my children, Courtney and Thomas Jr. (TJ), were also pursuing degrees. It became a family affair, with all of us working toward educa�onal milestones simultaneously. My master’s degree was an homage to the sacrifices of 11

my parents, siblings, and ancestors—those who paved the way for me to live the American dream. These collec�ve experiences reinforced my belief in educa�on as a vehicle for empowerment and change. They also prepared me to step into a doctoral program with the confidence and resilience required for the journey ahead.

12

Sec�on 4: The Influence of Brotherhood

As a young adult, I draw strength from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, a brotherhood that taught me excellence through service.

The fraternity’s moto, "First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All," aligns with my life’s mission to upli� others while achieving personal milestones.

Alpha Phi Alpha’s emphasis on Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for All Mankind ins�lled in me the resolve to pursue higher educa�on despite challenges. The accomplishments of my fraternity brothers, many of whom, as I men�oned earlier, had already earned advanced degrees, served as reminders that educa�on is both a personal milestone and a communal responsibility.

With the support of my fraternity, family, and mentors, I sought out a program that aligned with my values and aspira�ons. This led me to St. John Fisher University.

DON’T QUIT

By Clinton Howell When things go wrong, as they some�mes will, When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low, and the debts are high, and you you want to smile, but you have to sigh.

When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.

Life is queer with its twist and turns As every one of us some�mes learns, And many a failure turns about, When he might have won had he stuck it out; Don’t give up though the pace seems slow, You may succeed with another blow.

Success is failure turned inside out, the silver �nt of the clouds of doubt, and you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far; So s�ck to the fight when you’re hardest hit, It’s when things seem worst, that you must not quit.

13

Sec�on 5: St. John Fisher University and Its Mission

Choosing the right ins�tu�on is founda�onal to any academic pursuit.

For me, St. John Fisher University was the perfect match. Known for its commitment to intellectual inquiry, service, and leadership development, the university provided the environment I needed to grow as both a scholar and a leader. It also held personal significance, as it was the university where my wife earned her

"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."

—John F. Kennedy

doctorate, which propelled her to become an esteemed educa�onal leader and City Commissioner.

The Doctor of Educa�on (Ed.D.) in Execu�ve Leadership program, designed for working professionals, equipped me with the skills to address complex challenges in my organiza�on and community. The program’s emphasis on transforma�onal leadership and equity resonated deeply with my own values, especially as I embarked on my disserta�on: “We Are All in This Together: Examining the Perspec�ves of Community Leaders Par�cipa�ng in Health Coali�ons to Address Health Dispari�es.” With the ins�tu�on selected, my journey began in earnest with the first class—a transforma�ve experience that set the tone for what was to come.

14

Sec�on 6: Star�ng the Disserta�on Journey

Embarking on my doctoral journey was an ambi�ous undertaking, made even more complex by my new role as Chief Opera�ng Officer at Anthony L. Jordan Health Center. Leading during a global pandemic added an extraordinary layer of difficulty as I navigated the high-stakes demands of healthcare leadership while delving into rigorous academic research.

The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, while daun�ng, paradoxically brought a slower pace of life that allowed me to focus more intently on my disserta�on. This period tested my endurance and resilience, highligh�ng the importance of strategic priori�za�on—an invaluable lesson emphasized in McKeown’s Essen�alism.

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out."

—Robert Collier

The first course of the Ed.D. program marked the beginning of a transforma�ve journey. During our first session, we engaged in grounding ac�vi�es such as medita�on and an outdoor walk, where we introduced ourselves to one another. These simple ac�vi�es set the tone for a program centered on collabora�on and connec�on.

15

Our cohort, Cohort Sweet 16, started with 15 members but quickly reduced to 12 a�er the first few classes. Later, we welcomed another student, bringing us to 13. My team, The Summit Squad, brought together educators and leaders from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared mission to increase our collec�ve knowledge so we could beter serve others. As I immersed myself in the coursework and collabora�ve environment of Cohort Sweet 16, I quickly realized that comple�ng a disserta�on would require more than intellectual effort—it would demand unwavering focus, strategic priori�za�on, and emo�onal strength.

16

Sec�on 7: The Books, Bible, and Hymns That Guided Me

The disserta�on journey is not for the faint of heart. It demands focus, discipline, and an unrelen�ng commitment to the finish line. Along the way, I found immense guidance in Carol Roberts and Laura Hyat’s The Disserta�on Journey, Greg McKeown’s Essen�alism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, the Holy Bible, and the church hymns I cherished while serving as Minister of Music.

Roberts and Hyat’s book provided a roadmap for naviga�ng the complexi�es of the disserta�on process, offering insights on how to manage challenges like procras�na�on, writer’s block, and the overwhelming nature of long-term academic projects. Their wisdom reminded me that the disserta�on is not just an academic requirement but a transforma�onal journey requiring persistence and self-discipline.

McKeown’s Essen�alism taught me the importance of focusing on the vital few instead of the trivial many. This concept became invaluable as I balanced the demands of my disserta�on with my roles as a husband, father, and Chief Opera�ng Officer. McKeown’s philosophy helped me eliminate distrac�ons and priori�ze what matered most, reinforcing the value of strategic decision-making throughout my academic and professional life.

Equally significant was the guidance I drew from Scripture. Verses such as “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5–6) and “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13) became my anchors during moments of doubt and exhaus�on. These words of faith reminded me that the journey was not one I traveled alone but with God direc�ng my steps.

17

As Minister of Music, the church's hymns were a profound source of strength and inspira�on. Songs like “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Blessed Assurance,” and “It Is Well with My Soul” resonated deeply with me, offering solace and hope during late nights of wri�ng and revision.

These hymns reminded me of God’s faithfulness and the enduring power of worship to upli� the soul. Addi�onally, the popular gospel song “My Soul Has Been Anchored in the Lord,” which I o�en sing with hear�elt convic�on, remained a steadfast reminder of the unwavering strength found in faith.

These books, combined with my faith, the Bible's �meless wisdom, and the church's comfor�ng hymns, became tools that sustained me during the most challenging moments of my disserta�on journey. They not only guided me to the finish line but also deepened my understanding of perseverance, purpose, and grace. As the coursework deepened, the disserta�on journey began to feel like a metaphorical swim across a challenging river.

18

Sec�on 8: Swimming Across the River: An Analogy for the Disserta�on Journey Embarking on my disserta�on felt like stepping into a serene, invi�ng river. At first, the water was calm, and my strokes were steady. I was filled with excitement, hope, and purpose. The river symbolized the path to my doctorate—seemingly smooth and atainable at the start.

But as I swam further, the river became turbulent, with waves and currents tes�ng my resolve. By the �me I reached the middle, the struggle became undeniable. Turning back to shore—to a life of unfulfilled dreams and failure memories—was not an op�on. Pressing forward was the only way, even as I grew more exhausted with every stroke.

There were �mes I felt myself sinking, "When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on."

—Franklin D. Roosevelt

gasping for air as the waves pulled me under. In those moments, I believe God carried me. He flatened my arms and kept me afloat when I lacked the strength

to swim on my own. As Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

19

Each small stroke forward brought me closer to the other side. By the �me I reached the shore, I realized that this journey was not only about earning a degree but also about transforma�on—of my faith, resilience, and trust in God’s provision.

20

Sec�on 9: Mental Health: An Unspoken Journey

The disserta�on journey took a significant toll on my mental health, highligh�ng the immense pressures many doctoral students face.

According to studies, nearly 50% of PhD students experience symptoms of psychological distress, and approximately one-third are at risk of developing a mental health disorder such as anxiety or depression (Evans et al., 2018). These challenges can be even more pronounced for Black men, who o�en navigate addi�onal layers of societal and systemic pressures while pursuing higher educa�on (Smith, Hung, & Franklin, 2011).

For me, these stresses were compounded by a trauma�c workplace incident that profoundly impacted my mental well-being. A former employee entered my workplace with a knife, threatening staff. I intervened and restrained him un�l police arrived, but tragically, the individual took his own life days later. This heartbreaking event le� me shaken and marked the beginning of a struggle with symptoms of posttrauma�c stress disorder (PTSD). I experienced heightened sensi�vity to sounds, difficulty watching drama�c videos in class, and a state of constant hyper-vigilance.

Sta�s�cs reveal that Black Americans are 20% more likely than the general popula�on to experience serious mental health problems, yet they are far less likely to seek professional help due to s�gma, cultural 21

barriers, and a lack of accessible resources (Ward, Wiltshire, Detry, & Brown, 2013). For Black men, societal expecta�ons o�en discourage open acknowledgment of mental health struggles, compounding the issue (Hammond, 2012).

Although I relied on prayer, reflec�on, and the passage of �me to heal, this experience underscored the cri�cal importance of mental health support. It also emphasized the need for accessible and culturally competent mental health services for Black men, who may feel compelled to suppress their struggles rather than address them.

Advice for Naviga�ng Mental Health Challenges: •

Acknowledge the Struggle: Recognizing that mental health is just as important as physical health is a crucial first step. Permit yourself to acknowledge your struggles without judgment.

•

Seek Support: Professional help, whether through therapy, counseling, or peer support groups, can make a world of difference. For Black men, finding a therapist with cultural competence can foster a deeper understanding and connec�on (Snowden, 2001).

•

Build a Support System: Lean on trusted friends, family members, mentors, or colleagues. Surrounding yourself with people who encourage and upli� you can ease the burden of isola�on.

22

•

Incorporate Self-Care Prac�ces: Exercise, mindfulness, journaling, and other self-care rou�nes can provide a mental reset. Research shows that physical ac�vity can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by up to 30% (Ströhle, 2009).

•

Advocate for Change: Ins�tu�ons and workplaces must ac�vely promote mental health resources and create safe environments where employees feel supported in addressing these challenges.

•

Reduce S�gma: Share your story when appropriate, as this can inspire others to seek help and foster a broader understanding of mental health challenges in your community.

During this turbulent period, I leaned on lessons from the books that guided my journey, drawing strength from their prac�cal strategies and profound inspira�on. They reminded me that challenges, while difficult, can also be transforma�ve when approached with courage and resilience.

23

Sec�on 10: Conclusion: Make Your Minute Count

As I stand at the culmina�on of this incredible journey, I am overwhelmed with gra�tude for every step, challenge, and triumph that has brought me to this moment. This journey was far more than the pursuit of a degree; it was a transforma�ve odyssey of growth, resilience, and legacy.

Growth is the process of becoming—an ongoing evolu�on shaped by the lessons learned and challenges overcome. For me, growth began in Rochester, New York, during a �me of social and racial upheaval. My mother, a single parent with unwavering determina�on, taught me that while circumstances may shape us, they do not define us. Growth is found in those pivotal moments when we choose to rise above adversity, to strive for more, and to embrace the journey of learning and self-discovery.

Transforma�on is the metamorphosis of the soul, where the trials we endure refine us into stronger, more purpose-driven individuals. This journey transformed me as I navigated the turbulent waters of academia, leadership, and advocacy. Encouraged by mentors, fraternity brothers, and family, I pursued educa�on not just as a personal goal but as a mission to leave a legacy. It was through my doctoral journey that I came to understand the power of collec�ve ac�on, faith, and perseverance to drive change and inspire hope.

24

Triumph is not merely about reaching the summit but about embracing the strength it took to get there. My triumph lies not only in earning my Doctorate of Educa�on but also in realizing the greater purpose behind it: addressing systemic inequi�es, empowering communi�es, and paving a path for future genera�ons. Every challenge, every late-night wri�ng session, and every moment of doubt was a step toward this triumph, fueled by the unwavering belief that faith and determina�on would see me through.

It was His strength that sustained me when the challenges felt insurmountable, reminding me that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). As I reflect on this journey, the truth of Jeremiah 29:11 humbles me: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Through moments of joy and sorrow, I swam through turbulent waters, buoyed by faith and trust in God to guide my steps. “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand” (Psalm 37:23– 24).

25

Dr. Benjamin E. Mays captured this spirit in his poem:

"I have only just a minute, Only sixty seconds in it.

Forced upon me, can’t refuse it.

Didn’t seek it, didn’t choose it.

But it’s up to me to use it.

I must suffer if I lose it, Give account if I abuse it.

Just a �ny litle minute, But eternity is in it."

We are all given this gi� of a minute—a moment to act, to impact, and to inspire. As you reflect on your own journey, I challenge you to consider how you will make your minute count. Trust in God, lean on your faith, and let this moment propel you forward. Remember, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3).

26

Appendix A: Reflec�on Ques�ons Ques�on 1: Personal Reflec�on 1. Why do you want to pursue a doctoral degree?

2. How does this goal align with your values and aspira�ons?

3. What legacy do you hope to create through this achievement?

Ques�on 2: Support System 4. Who in your life will support you emo�onally, professionally, and prac�cally during this journey?

5. How can you build or strengthen your network of mentors, peers, and collaborators?

Ques�on 3: Resilience and Growth 6. How do you handle setbacks?

7. What prac�ces (e.g., prayer, journaling, medita�on) will help you stay grounded?

Ques�on 4: Mental Health and Well-being 8. Are you prepared to address the mental and emo�onal challenges of pursuing a doctorate?

9. How will you priori�ze your mental health?

Ques�on 5: Prac�cal Considera�ons 10. Do you have the resources to commit to a doctoral program?

11. How will you balance work, family, and academic responsibili�es?

27

Appendix B: Reflec�on Worksheet Ques�on A: Personal Connec�ons 1. What resonates with you most about Dr. Thomas Green's journey? Why? (Consider his challenges, his faith, or his perseverance.)

Answer:

2. Dr. Green highlights the importance of faith and community in overcoming obstacles. What support systems do you rely on in your own challenges?

Answer:

Ques�on B: Overcoming Challenges 3. Dr. Green faced challenges such as mental health struggles, balancing responsibili�es, and societal pressures. What strategies did he use to persevere? Which of these strategies could you apply to your own life?

Answer:

28

4. Think of a significant challenge in your life. How did you navigate it? What might you do differently now, inspired by Dr. Green's story?

Answer:

Ques�on C: Goals and Aspira�ons 5. Dr. Green’s journey was driven by his belief in educa�on as a vehicle for change. What personal goals or dreams are you currently working toward?

Answer:

6. Dr. Green’s analogy of swimming across a turbulent river symbolizes perseverance. What does your “river” look like, and what mo�vates you to keep swimming?

Answer:

29

Ques�on D: Faith and Resilience 7. Scripture and hymns provided Dr. Green with strength during difficult �mes. Is there a source of inspira�on—spiritual or otherwise—that upli�s you? How do you draw upon it?

Answer:

8. Dr. Green emphasizes trust in God and leaning on faith. How do you integrate faith, mindfulness, or reflec�on into your daily life?

Answer:

Ques�on E: Giving Back 9. Dr. Green’s journey reflects his commitment to addressing systemic inequi�es. What ac�ons can you take to upli� others in your community or workplace?

Answer:

10.

Dr. Green reminds us, “What will you do with your minute?” How will you use your �me to create a meaningful impact?

Answer:

30

Closing Reflec�on •

A�er comple�ng this worksheet, summarize one key takeaway or lesson you’ve learned from Dr. Green’s journey and how you’ll apply it to your life.

Answer:

This worksheet is designed to encourage though�ul reflec�on and ac�onable insights inspired by Dr. Green's transforma�ve journey.

31

References Books and Literature 1. Roberts, C. M., & Hyat, L. (2018). The Dissertation Journey: A Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Writing, and Defending Your Dissertation. Corwin Press.

2. McKeown, G. (2014). Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less.

Currency.

3. Hughes, L. (1994). The Collected Poems of Langston Hughes.

Vintage Classics.

Biblical Verses (Cited Throughout) 1. Proverbs 3:5–6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding..."

2. Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord...

3. Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

4. Isaiah 41:10: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed..."

5. Psalm 37:23–24: "The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him..."

Poetry 1. Mays, B. E. (1980). Just a Minute. (Included as an excerpt and referenced in reflec�ve sec�ons.)

Academic Sources on Mental Health 32

1. Evans, T. M., Bira, L., Gastelum, J. B., Weiss, L. T., & Vanderford, N. L. (2018). Evidence for a mental health crisis in graduate education. Nature Biotechnology, 36(3), 282–284.

2. Smith, W. A., Hung, M., & Franklin, J. D. (2011). Racial battle fatigue and the miseducation of Black men: Racial microaggressions, societal problems, and environmental stress.

Journal of Negro Educa�on, 80(1), 63–82.

3. Ward, E., Wiltshire, J. C., Detry, M. A., & Brown, R. L. (2013).

African American men and women’s attitude toward mental illness, perceptions of stigma, and preferred coping behaviors.

Nursing Research, 62(3), 185–194.

Music and Hymns 1. Crosby, F. J. (1873). Blessed Assurance. Hymn.

2. Spafford, H. G. (1873). It Is Well with My Soul. Hymn.

3. Chisholm, T. O. (1923). Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Hymn.

Quotes 1. Fitzgerald, E. (1950s). "It’s not where you come from; it’s where you’re going that counts."

2. Mandela, N. (1994). "Educa�on is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

3. Newton, I. (1675). "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants."

4. Twain, M. (1900s). "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."

Supplemental Materials 33

1. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (n.d.). History and Legacy of Brotherhood. Retrieved from htps://apa1906.net.

2. Rochester Public Library Archives (1964). The Rochester Race Riots: A Historical Perspective.

3. Fisher, A. (2019). Transformational Leadership in Healthcare.

Healthcare Journal, 12(4), 210–225.

34