A Simple Swab, a Life Saved: CHS Student’s Work Earns Award Nomination

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

For Chloe Hornback, a simple cheek swab represents something far greater. It’s a chance to save a life.

Hornback, a 21-year-old College of Health Sciences senior majoring in Human Health Sciences (on the Pre-Physician Assistant track) is the founder of the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Club at UK — a student-led organization now being recognized for its growing impact. The club has been nominated for a 2026 Lead Blue Award, which honors outstanding student organizations and leaders across campus.

“It’s honestly really rewarding,” Hornback said. “This organization is something I’ve put a lot of time and passion into, so being recognized for it means a lot.”

The nomination comes as part of the annual Lead Blue Student Organization Celebration and Award Ceremony, where winners will be announced live on April 21 at the Gatton Student Center’s Harris Ballroom.

From inspiration to impact

A native of Elizabethtown, Ky., Hornback first discovered the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Registry and became an ambassador for the organization in summer 2024. Inspired by its mission — and by founder Jay Feinberg’s story as a leukemia survivor who received a life-saving transplant — she brought that mission to campus.

What started as a few events quickly gained momentum. By fall 2025, Hornback and fellow student ambassadors had officially registered the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Club as a University of Kentucky student organization.

Since then, the club has grown to 85 members and collected 319 swab samples from students willing to join the national registry.

“One of our swabs led to a donor match and ultimately a stem cell transplant for a patient with chronic myelogenous leukemia,” Hornback said. “Seeing that direct impact has been incredibly motivating.”

A passion rooted in purpose

Hornback said her academic path in the College of Health Sciences has shaped both her career goals and her approach to service.

“I chose Human Health Sciences because it gives a broader understanding of healthcare beyond just the clinical side,” she said. “It’s allowed me to learn about health disparities, access to care and the social factors that impact patients.”

That perspective has fueled her desire to address inequities in care — both through her future career and her work with the club.

“I want to advocate for my patients and provide individualized care, especially for those who face barriers or are part of marginalized communities,” she said.

Hornback credits faculty support, particularly from her advisor, with helping bring the organization to life.

“I truly would not have been able to do it without that support,” she said.

Looking ahead

Hornback plans to apply to Physician Assistant programs this year, with the goal of becoming a compassionate provider who makes a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.

At the same time, she hopes the club will continue expanding its reach on campus — and beyond.

“Our goal is to facilitate even more life-saving transplants through continued outreach and education,” she said.

The Lead Blue Awards ceremony will recognize organizations like the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Club for their contributions to campus and community. The event begins at 5:15 p.m. April 21 and will be followed by a reception with appetizers, photos and guest appearances.

For Hornback, the nomination is already a win.

“It’s exciting to see the impact we’ve made on campus be acknowledged,” she said. “If we won, it would just help us spread more awareness and continue growing our impact.”