Acknowledgements

I want to begin by thanking my family and friends, your love, patience, and constant encouragement helped me believe in myself, especially on the days when I needed it most. Your faith in me has been my anchor.

To my professors, Dr. Carol Sharicz and Fran Keefe, your uplifting words of wisdom, steady guidance, and unwavering support have meant more to me than I could ever fully express. Thank you for seeing something in me and reminding me of my purpose whenever I started to doubt myself.

To my colleagues, thank you for walking beside me in this journey and for helping me bring this work to life and also for sharing our passion to the youth we serve. Your willingness to support and pilot my tools made this project stronger, and I’m deeply grateful.

Most of all, I dedicate this work to the foster youth of Massachusetts. You are the reason I do this, and I will always be in your corner.

Although the images of many of you, now adults are blurred out below for confidentiality, my heart will never forget you: your pain, your struggles, your accomplishments, and me, cheering you on as you go.

I still remember the essay I wrote when applying to the Instructional Design program, where I quoted the words, "In learning I taught, in teaching I learned." That quote has never felt more true.

You have taught me resilience, courage, and the power of hope. I carry your stories with me always, and I will never stop advocating for you.