­­­­­­­­­Clinton County middle school students Haley Dicken and Mackenzie Polston developed their math, science, and technology skills this summer at The Center for Rural Development’s 2013 Rogers Explorers youth leadership program.

Haley is the daughter of Kim Dicken and Eric Dicken of Albany. Mackenzie is the daughter of Terry and Kim Polston of Albany.

The students were among 120 rising high school freshmen from 38 Southern and Eastern Kentucky counties to attend and graduate from one of four summer sessions of the Rogers Explorers program.

“The Rogers Explorers program has helped me build my leadership skills and explore different career paths,” said Polston, 15, who represented Clinton County Middle School. “I loved everything about this program.”

Rogers Explorers, a three-day, two-night program held on a college campus, provides leadership and educational opportunities for middle school graduates to learn more about math, science, and technology. Graduates are encouraged to work toward building careers in these in-demand career fields.

“These students certainly have what it takes to become the future leaders of Southern and Eastern Kentucky,” said Delaney Stephens, community liaison and youth programs coordinator. “The Center congratulates all graduates of this year’s program. We also thank the four higher education institutions that partner with The Center to provide educational leadership opportunities to youth in our region.”

The Rogers Explorers program is presented by The Center in partnership with Lindsey Wilson College, University of the Cumberlands, Eastern Kentucky University, and Morehead State University.