Carmen Jimenez Pride Memorial Scholarship

Carmen Jimenez-Pride was a trailblazing licensed clinical social worker, international speaker, and visionary leader in the fields of mental health, play therapy, and trauma-informed care.

Carmen dedicated her career to the service of others, especially children, adolescents, and families from culturally diverse backgrounds. As the creative mind behind Focus on Feelings®, a groundbreaking emotional literacy curriculum, and as a certified play therapist, EMDR therapist, yoga teacher, and IFS therapist, Carmen worked tirelessly to expand the possibilities of healing. Her work emphasized cultural humility, diversity, and addressing racial and cultural trauma, leaving an indelible mark on both clinical practice and the global therapeutic community.

This scholarship seeks to continue Carmen Jimenez-Pride’s mission of empowerment, service, and advocacy by supporting the next generation of African American women dedicated to the field of social work.

Any female African American high school senior or undergraduate student who is pursuing social work with at least a 3.0 GPA may apply for this scholarship opportunity, but applicants attending the University of South Carolina or Benedict College and those with an expressed interest in play therapy, trauma-informed care, or culturally responsive clinical practices are preferred. Applicants also must demonstrate a commitment to service, leadership, and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of social work.

To apply, tell us about your passion for social work, your career goals, and how you plan to embody Carmen’s legacy of service, cultural humility, and advocacy. Additionally, upload a letter of recommendation from a faculty member, community leader, or professional in the field of social work.