Making the examined life worth living: The ethics of being a liberal educator (original) (raw)

Many other friends near and far lightened the burdens of Ph.D. living. My Covenant Fellowship Church Bible study provided much needed laughter, a loving community, and weekly reminders of what's most important in life. I especially thank Natalie Mullen for inviting me, Cathy and Steve Hong for their care during a particularly difficult period, and Tiffany Jon for checking in on me. My work sessions with Grace Kang rejuvenated me, and my physical therapy sessions with Ben Kim helped me survive the back-breaking demands of writing. I also thank the University Baptist Church community for being enthusiastic cheerleaders, especially Tammi and Brett Smith and Michael and Amy Agapito. I am fortunate to have found a kindred spirit in Kate Insolia, who made life in Champaign sweeter. Those who have known me since long before I became a doctoral student were anchors during many storms: The Reverend Dr. Bill Majors provided a listening ear, timely encouragement, apt counsel from fourteen time zones away; Liz Son and Halla Yang provided a home away from home when I needed to breathe some city air and be around old friends; and Taharee Jackson, Bethany Parliament, and Syeda Lewis made sure I knew I would be alright no matter what. Finally, I am grateful for the support of my family. I thank my brother for being a steady and caring presence. I am so thankful and proud to be the daughter of my parents, who taught me that the riches of the soul are of the greatest worth and believed my work was important even when I had doubts. I thank my father, a philosopher of education at heart, for modeling a life of faith, hope, and good humor, despite the strains of immigrant life; and my mother for being a living example of the power of education, even late in life, while also reminding me that if I "understand all mysteries and all knowledge … but have not love, I am nothing." vi To my parents vii TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER