2022 Robert M. Duncan Alumni Citizenship Award

“I’ve learned it’s vitally important to slow down and listen, to be present with those we serve, in concert with channeling knowledge and effort to accomplish our goal,” he says. “To look in someone’s eyes, to touch their hand, to ask questions and listen to their story, that’s how I’ve learned to serve people. Ministry of presence.”

Delaney’s parents inspired a passion in him for volunteering. When he was a young teenager, his mother encouraged him to volunteer for Special Olympics, an experience he found joyful and inspiring. His father helped international employees settle into new communities, while also volunteering with local school projects and park districts.
 

In turn, Delaney did the same with his wife and two daughters. They volunteered with non-profit organizations in Franklin and Delaware counties, regional outreach programs and traveled to Peru in collaboration with their mission partners focused on environmental and social justice disciplines, and facility improvements in support of domestic violence victims.

“The real joy we've celebrated as a family are opportunities in which we’ve served others, together” Delaney says. “Whether it included travel or was in our own backyard, the fulfillment shared continues to be profound.”

Delaney has maintained close ties to his alma mater. He’s a long-time adviser to the College of Social Work, where he serves on the leadership committee. He and his family also fund scholarships to support social work students committed to veterans, child and youth welfare, developmental disabilities, aging and elderly care among others.