PROBABILISTIC-BASED HURRICANE RISK ASSESSMENT AND ...

AcknowledgementsI would like to start by expressing my sincerest gratitude to my advisor, Dr. Yue Li. Wehave worked together for the past four years. His knowledge and guidance have been aninvaluable resource for me throughout the process of writing this dissertation. His opendoor policy has led to many interesting exchanges of ideas that have, in many cases,found their way onto the pages of this dissertation. Over the years, Dr. Li has developeda knack for knowing exactly what I needed in the form of an advisor, whether it is toprovide me with encouragement, patience, praise, or a little push to keep going, and forthat I thank him.I would also like to thank my co-advisor, Dr. Mark Stewart, Professor and Director of theCenter for Infrastructure Performance and Reliability at The University of Newcastle inAustralia, for his guidance. His instance on asking tough questions has pushed me to gobeyond what I initially thought was enough, to make this dissertation a piece of work thatI am truly proud of.I would like to extend my appreciation to Dr. Veronica Griffis and Dr. Qiuying Sha, whoserved as my graduate advisory committee members, for their assistance and timethroughout this process.I would like to send a special thanks to all the assistance my Graphics Department hasgiven me. The assistance has gone above and beyond.My parents, Bjarni and Dóra, have stood by me throughout my life. We have had ourshare of ups and downs, but their support has never faltered. At times when I have beenquestioning my ability as a researcher or teacher, they have given me the encouragementI have needed to keep going and they have pushed me to be better than I believe possible.My father has always expected me to give my all, which has helped me develop a workethic that has resulted in this dissertation. My mother has always been there, taking onthe various roles I have needed to complete this dissertation, such as cheerleader,confidant, and friend. I would also like to thank my siblings, Stína, Stefán and Valtýr, forxviii