25 April 2025 1 minute read
Lauren Forney, C'2026, is a Health Science major at Spelman College and a dedicated Health Careers Opportunity Program Pre-Professional (HCOPPP) scholar with a passion for women’s health and a strong interest in technology. Through her hard work and determination, Forney has successfully secured over $150,000 in external scholarships to support her academic journey, showcasing her commitment to graduating debt-free. She has been offered an internship with the U.S. Department of Energy to work at the National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where she will gain valuable research experience working side by side with leading researchers to explore innovative solutions in healthcare.
Previously, Forney earned an internship with Morehouse School of Medicine, where she conducted impactful research on breast cancer treatments. She presented her findings at the Cancer Symposium at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, earning 2nd place for her oral poster presentation. In addition, Forney attended the Dermatology Career Prep Program with the American Academy of Dermatology Association in Washington, D.C. There, she gained hands-on experience and volunteered at the Learn2Derm Community Fair, educating the public on skin cancer prevention. This experience broadened her understanding of healthcare disparities and led to her being recognized as “A Life Skin Changer” by La Roche-Posay.
Forney has also been named a finalist for the Society of Cosmetic Chemists Madame C.J. Walker Scholarship and recognized as the New Face of Tech Winner for her vision of leveraging technology to expand healthcare access in underserved communities. On campus, Forney is employed as a Spelman College Major Meet-Up Guide, supporting Health Science sophomores in navigating their academic paths. She has also volunteered countless hours to support incoming Spelmanites, serving as a Spelman Big Sister and Orientation Leader. Additionally, she serves as the Philanthropy Chair for Spelman Protégé and is a member of Spelman College Collegiate 100. In the Atlanta community, she volunteers with the Atlanta Community Food Bank, Break the Cycle Organization, and The Believer's Church.
Nationally, she represents the National Society of High School Scholars and serves as an ambassador for the She Is More Than Enough nonprofit. Forney's passion for service began in 2016 when she founded her nonprofit to provide service opportunities for the next generation of leaders. Her lifelong commitment to community service has been recognized by two U.S. Presidents. Most notably, Forney was selected out of 5.2 million students in Texas as the Student Hero of the Year by the Texas Board of Education for her remarkable service and leadership. Fueled by her passion for healthcare, technology, and community impact, Forney aims to expand access to women's healthcare while advancing her path as a leader and advocate.
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