Greetings, I am Mark Robert Rank, the Herbert S. Hadley Professor of Social Welfare at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis. My research focuses on poverty, social welfare, economic inequality, and social policy, delving into the intricate interplay of these factors within the fabric of society. I have authored several books, including "One Nation, Underprivileged: Why American Poverty Affects Us All," which examines the pervasive impact of poverty on individuals and communities. Additionally, my work on "Living on the Edge" provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges faced by those reliant on public assistance, particularly amidst evolving welfare reform initiatives and policy debates.