Former vice president remembered for decades of service to higher education

Former Vice President of University Affairs Dr. Raymond Rice Hornback Sr. passed away Feb. 28, 2026, in Lexington, at the age of 91.

Born July 19, 1934, in Greenville, Hornback grew up in Louisville. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky (UK) and later completed his Doctor of Education at Indiana University.

Hornback joined Morehead State University in 1956 and served in several administrative roles, including director of publicity & publications, director of public relations and assistant of public affairs, before being named vice president of university affairs in 1968.

During his tenure at MSU, he helped guide the University’s communications and public relations efforts during a period of institutional growth. He served in that role until 1973, when he left MSU to become vice president for university relations at UK.

“We honor the legacy of VP Hornback,” said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), vice president for University Advancement. “He was a member of the Morehead State leadership team during a pivotal time and helped set MSU on a lasting path of growth and success.”

Following his years at MSU, Hornback went on to a distinguished career at UK, where he served as vice president for university relations and held leadership roles with numerous community and civic organizations.

Hornback is survived by his wife, Betty Jean (Collins) Hornback; a daughter, Katherine “Kit” Hornback (Jason Rothrock); and a son, Raymond “R.R.” Hornback Jr. (Jacqui Baker).

He is also survived by two grandchildren, Zachary R. Rothrock and Anna K. Rothrock.