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>> vii Acknowledgments Faces are singular. No two are exactly the same. Yet faces often resemble one another, and in this way, they indicate our lineage or whom we come from. Likewise, this book is a sole project, but it reflects the contributions of a great many. As a truly adventurous thinker, Monica J. Casper blends imagination and an appreciation for unique data with a steady infusion of classic sociology and emergent theory. Monica models how thinking and writing are inextricable processes. She has been a mentor and guide from the embryonic stages of this project through the final moments of book writing. I am most grateful for her steady support. Laura Carpenter has proved to be a savvy sociological tour guide, offering priceless guidance about navigating the discipline. Steven J. Tepper has been generous in collaboration, and I have learned much about creativity, intellectual and otherwise. Jeff Bishop asked hard questions of this project that pointed me in new directions. Over the years, I have encountered incredible teachers who have fundamentally changed the way I think as well. Their imprint is on these pages. I am especially appreciative to Jane Simmons, Karin Peterson, Heidi Kelley, Ken Betsalel , Dee James, Karen Campbell, Ronnie Steinberg, Peggy Thoits, George Becker, and Richard Pitt. Confidentiality limits my ability to thank all those who generously agreed to be interviewed and who proffered access to key materials, but the completion of this book depended on their participation and openness to the critique of the social scientist, which demonstrates a sincere commitment to ever-enhanced patient care. Special thanks to Allen Furr for establishing a key point of entry and for several significant conversations regarding the profession of sociology. In describing his work as a burn unit physical therapist, Tonas Kalil planted the seeds for this project many years ago. The counselors and children I met at burn camp generously shared their stories and fortified my dedication to viii > ix friend and ally. Vali Forrister dispensed kindhearted dares. Ana-Helena Rodriguez Allen, Sarah Hutchinson Spalvins, and Millie Bryant were travel mates, from place to place and through life. This motley crew of friends has morphed into a gorgeous chosen family. Chief among friend-family are Elizabeth Eve and Kathryn Cartledge, whose steady stream of love has changed me for the better. Keith Bramlett has thoroughly infused my thinking and my teaching with passion, self-reflexivity, and critical praxis, but more importantly in knowing him I found a model for living: Remain hopeful about what is possible. Work for a better world. Make life simply beautiful in the meantime. Bramlett and Phil Weast have fortified me from the very beginning. For the serendipity that has brought each of you into my world, I am most grateful. Cullen Talley, Travis Talley, Christopher Flow, Lauren Talley, and Heather Hayes have offered treasured forms of support over the years— from house-painting help to sensible (much needed) advice—first things first. Sami, Marki, and Riley Reed sustained my joy. Morris Talley believed in my capacity to accomplish anything. And Pamela Flow instilled tenacity for keeping on and belief in endless possibilities. Each of you is deeply lodged in my heart. Lee Crayton deserves special acknowledgment for wrangling technology and the pup. In our years together, we have intellectually journeyed alongside one another, ventured to change our corner of the world, and made home together. But more importantly, you have made me curious and hopeful about what’s next. Let’s. This page intentionally left blank ...

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