Clare Beatty, a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Stony Brook University, has been chosen to receive the prestigious P.E.O. Scholar Award, a $25,000 grant. The award from the P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) Sisterhood acknowledges her academic accomplishments and potential societal impact. Beatty was endorsed by Chapter N in New Canaan, Connecticut.
The P.E.O. Scholar Awards were initiated in 1991 and are merit-based awards for women pursuing doctoral degrees in the United States and Canada. These awards focus on women who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and the capacity for a significant positive impact.
Hailing from Darien, Connecticut, Beatty graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2018 with a bachelor's degree in psychology, earning summa cum laude honors and membership in Phi Beta Kappa. During her undergraduate studies, she garnered several awards for academic excellence and merit-based scholarships.
Her current research investigates the factors that heighten vulnerability to anxiety and depression, particularly in uncertain circumstances. “Uncertainty is an inevitable part of life — from small things like the weather to major events like a global pandemic,” Beatty stated. “My research investigates how our brains respond when facing unpredictable situations.”
Beatty employs advanced neuroscience methods to explore brain activity patterns that might identify adolescents at higher risk for mental health issues. Her work aspires to enhance early intervention and create personalized treatment strategies for youth.
In addition to her research, Beatty consults for digital mental health firms focusing on enhancing access to therapy, serves as a therapist, and mentors budding psychology students. She is set to graduate in May 2026, completing her clinical training at Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York.
Beatty has contributed to over 20 published articles in top-tier scientific journals. Her work has been recognized by organizations such as the Society of Clinical Psychology (American Psychological Association, Division 12) and the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (APA, Division 53), among others.