The University of Kentucky College of Dentistry Class of 2029 has been recognized with the 2026 Lead Blue Award for Event of the Year, honoring their “Pink Walk"—a student-led initiative that brought the campus community together to raise awareness for breast cancer.The award recognizes outstanding events coordinated by registered student organizations during the academic year that demonstrate a unique and meaningful impact on the university community. Created by students, for students, the honor celebrates events that foster engagement, connection and dialogue.The “Pink Walk,” held on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, began at the William T. Young Library, where participants gathered for food, music, and conversation before walking together to the Gatton Student Center. The event concluded with speakers—including a breast cancer survivor and a UK researcher—who shared personal experiences and insights, highlighting both the human and clinical impact of the disease.Organized in part by first-year dental student Donte Reed, the event was designed to resonate deeply with students. That connection was evident even before the walk began—nearly 72% of participants indicated they had been impacted by breast cancer in some way.Emma Malawy, a member of the Class of 2029, emphasized the purpose behind the event and the group’s motivation to bring it to campus.“The Pink Walk was inspired by past, current, and future breast cancer warriors. We wanted to create an event to honor the fighters and bring awareness to the cause,” Malawy said. “The Pink Walk was a priority for the Class of 2029 because there is no other event like it on campus and we wanted to make a change.”Speakers reinforced the event’s impact by highlighting both the personal and clinical realities of breast cancer. Survivor Lisa Cupp shared how the disease affects not only individuals but also their families and loved ones, while Markey Cancer Center Senior Philanthropy Director Leslie Hammer emphasized the importance of understanding both the science and the human side of the disease.For the Class of 2029, this recognition represents more than just an award—it reflects the collective impact of their efforts. Fellow first-year dental student Hannah Stein said the honor underscores the power of bringing people together around a shared cause.“For our class, winning Event of the Year for the Pink Walk at the Blue Lead was meaningful not only because it brought our class together, but also inter-professionals and undergraduates at UK to educate and raise awareness for breast cancer while hearing from individuals directly affected,” Stein said. “The recognition showed us the impact we can have when we come together, and it has motivated us to keep creating events that bring others together while uplifting meaningful causes.”The recognition highlights the leadership and initiative of the Class of 2029—demonstrating how student-driven efforts can create meaningful impact across campus and inspire continued engagement in causes that matter.Learn more about the "Pink Walk".
Left to Right: Micah Cowen, Amy Greene, Donte Reed, Hannah Stein, and Emma Malawy