Marymount alumna Delaney Carey ‘23 has been named the 2024 recipient of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi’s Sherrill Carlson Fellowship. It is awarded to top-performing applicants in the humanities and arts and includes $35,000 for continuing education.
Carey, who studied Criminal Justice and Psychology at Marymount, was chosen as the University’s Phi Kappa Phi chapter award nominee for her efforts to highlight the importance of mental health resources in the criminal justice system.
“Delaney’s application was stellar because her experiences with and passion for the intersection of criminal justice and mental health came through so clearly in her materials and in her career goals,” said Alison Gregory, Marymount’s Dean of Libraries and Awards Coordinator for Marymount’s Phi Kappa Phi chapter. “I have no doubt she will be highly successful in her doctoral studies as well as in her work with at-risk youth in the justice system.”
Carey plans to use the fellowship money to pursue a doctorate in psychology from Xavier University, beginning her studies this fall.
“Many times when you are chasing a high-level academic feat, imposter syndrome and self-doubt can get in the way. But this award has bolstered my confidence that I am going in the right direction and that this program is the best next step for me,” Carey explained. “I am excited to continue researching how neuropsychology can positively impact youth in the criminal justice system. I look forward to delving deeper into my interest areas and learning how I can use that knowledge to help other people.”
After earning her doctorate, Carey hopes to become a clinical psychologist and help young people with mental health issues in the criminal justice system. She also aims to spread awareness about the importance of providing mental health resources to those who need them most.
“We don’t always realize it, but everyone is touched by mental health and the criminal justice system,” Carey said. “There’s really a need for people who are excited, empathetic and passionate about improving our country’s system. I hope to be a part of the solution by becoming a competent and compassionate clinician for this next generation.”
Carey is Marymount’s third Phi Kappa Phi fellowship award winner since Marymount’s chapter launched in 2019. She follows fellow alumnae MaryEllen Haas ‘20 and Courtney Stephens ‘20.
Gregory says the continued selection of Marymount students is a testament to the strength of the University’s focus on providing a well-rounded education.
“The University and the chapter are immensely proud of all our fellowship winners and Delaney in particular, as she is the first one to receive a named fellowship as the top-scoring applicant in her category,” Gregory said. “Having three Phi Kappa Phi award recipients in five years speaks highly of Marymount’s students’ strengths, academic preparation and career ambitions.”
