Clinton County High School student Katherine “Katie” Williams graduated this summer from The Center for Rural Development’s Rogers Scholars program.

Williams, a junior at Clinton County High School, is the daughter of Mike and Teresa Williams of Albany.

Rogers Scholars is an intensive one-week summer leadership program that provides opportunities for high school students in Southern and Eastern Kentucky to receive the skills they need to become the region’s next generation of business and entrepreneurial leaders. Seventeen colleges and universities partner with The Center to offer exclusive college scholarships to Rogers Scholars graduates.

“Rogers Scholars has changed my life, because now I have friendships and connections that I would not have had otherwise,” said Katie. “The program also has helped me to realize that when people come together, as a whole, they can accomplish anything.”

Sixty students from 45 Kentucky counties graduated this summer from the 2014 Class of Rogers Scholars. The program was held on the campus of Lindsey Wilson College in South Central Kentucky in Adair County.

Established in 1996 through the vision of U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, (KY-05), and other leaders, The Center for Rural Development is a nonprofit organization fueled by a mission to provide leadership that stimulates innovative and sustainable economic development solutions and a better way of life in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. In its 45-county primary service region, The Center provides innovative programs in leadership, public safety, technology, and arts and culture. The Center is committed to constantly expanding its capabilities in order to deliver a range of key services throughout Kentucky and the nation.