Acknowledgments

This book exists because of special, talented people who have touched both my personal and professional life. First and foremost is Robert Preziosi, of Nova Southeastern University, my professional mentor and good friend. Eula Adams, my former boss and executive vice president of First Data Corporation, will always stand out as a brilliant leader who believed in learning and in the people he led. John J. Collins, my very first boss during high school, believed in my future and has encouraged me throughout my life.

Writing this book took perseverance, project planning, and the confidence to know it could be accomplished. For this, I thank Marcia Maytner, my fifth grade teacher. In her class, I completed a year-long research project that resulted in a 100-page report on the American Revolution. Her grade of A++ helped a little girl understand that she could literally write a book.

The many learning professionals with whom I worked over the years deserve a great deal of recognition and thanks. In particular, the members of the Ingersoll Rand University team have made world-class contributions to workplace learning and to the Ingersoll Rand business they serve. I am proud to work with this team.

The ASTD organization holds a special fondness in my heart. Through this organization, I have learned much about leadership, learning, and giving back to the learning profession. Thanks to Justin Brusino of ASTD Press, who provided enormous encouragement and wise counsel.

In addition, special thanks to my personal cheerleaders—my mom, Helen Mehegan, and my good friend, Monica Packenham. I wish that my father, John Mehegan, were alive to share in this experience. However, his love for me, his humor, and his value for learning are with me forever. Finally, last but not least, someone very special provides much joy in my life, my husband, Steve Proctor—I am grateful for your patience, encouragement, sense of humor, and love.