Now is the time to express my gratitude to the multitude of people who have provided their support throughout the completion of this dissertation and the associated doctorate. First, I would like to thank Dr. Jesse Stewart, my graduate advisor and committee chair, for his outstanding mentorship and guidance throughout the preparation of this dissertation and throughout my doctoral training, more broadly. As my mentor, he has provided superior guidance that has been vital to my professional

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... opment. He has served as an outstanding role model for what it means to be a productive research scientist. I am also thankful to the CARDIA study team and my committee member, Dr. Karen Matthews, for their collaboration to make this dissertation possible. Next, I would like to give thanks to my other committee members, Drs. Daniel Clark, Melissa Cyders, and Adam Hirsh, for their exceptional guidance with regard to theory, analyses, and implementation of this project. Thanks are due, of course, to my familyto my parents, brothers, and in-lawsfor their constant belief in my abilities. Finally, thank you to my wonderful husband -Carl Vranyfor his unwavering support, encouragement, and patience that has bolstered my ability to pursue and achieve my dreams.