iii iii About the Author Sharleen L. Kato, EdD, CFCS-HDFS Professor and Director Department of Family and Consumer Sciences Seattle Pacifi c University Seattle, Washington Sharleen L. Kato loves teaching as well as learning. She is a Professor at Seattle Pacific University where she encourages students to become creative problem solvers and to make a positive impact in their communities. Dr. Kato has taught undergraduate students for over 30 years, and currently serves as the Family and Consumer Sciences Department Director. She holds a Doctorate in Education, a Master’s in Human Ecology, and an undergraduate degree in Home Economics. Dr. Kato has served on the Bellevue Christian Schools Education Committee and Board of Directors, Hilltop Children’s Center Board of Directors, the Health and Wellness Advisory Committee for Seattle Public Schools, and education committees and task forces for Washington State Public Schools. Dr. Kato has published many books and articles, and has presented papers in the education fi eld. She travels extensively—spending at least two weeks each year serving in an orphanage, school, teen home, and prenatal clinic in the Philippines. Dr. Kato is passionate about inspiring others to take on the challenge of improving the quality of life of those around them.