As the researcher, my deepest appreciation goes to my committee chair, Dr. Dernoral Davis, who believed in my ability to meet the criteria in spite of obstacles. Without his guidance and persistent, the completion of this thesis would not have been possible. Not only did this topic enhance my knowledge base, but it also increased my level of awareness to the turmoil that the people faced in the Mississippi Delta. The topic gave me a clear understanding of poverty in America and how many citizens are still trying to create a better solution to overcome intergenerational poverty in rural areas. However, to my committee members, Dr. Ricky Hill, Dr. Robert Luckett, and Dr. Rico Chapman, special thanks goes to each of you for being persevering
