Delaney was born and raised in Somerset, Kentucky. A graduate of the University of Kentucky, he received a Bachelor of Science in Community Communications and Leadership Development with an emphasis on nonprofit management and community & economic development. Early in his career, Delaney served as the Community Liaison and Youth Programs Coordinator for The Center for Rural Development. More recently, Delaney was the Founding Director of Prosper Appalachia, a youth workforce development initiative that focused on education-to-career outcomes for 16-24 year olds living in Eastern Kentucky. Throughout his career experiences, Delaney has worked extensively to support communities and young people so that future generations of Kentuckians receive the experiences and opportunities they need to thrive. Currently, Delaney serves as the Policy Director for Meaningful Diplomas at the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence. He is also a small business owner and lives in Somerset with his wife and two daughters.