Three middle school students from Clinton County have been selected to attend The Center for Rural Development’s 2017 Rogers Explorers youth leadership program.

Kendra Cross, daughter of Brad and Stacy Cross of Albany; Abbigale Young, daughter of Kevan and Lezlee Young of Albany; and Autumn McCutchen, daughter of Jaime and Christy McCutchen of Burkesville, are students at Clinton County Middle School.

Rogers Explorers is open to eighth-grade students in Southern and Eastern Kentucky who have a strong interest in developing their skills in leadership, technology, math, science, and community service.

Two hundred and twelve students—the largest class ever—will converge on the campuses of seven Kentucky colleges and universities this summer for the Rogers Explorers program.

“Rogers Explorers gives students a one-of-a-kind learning experience to explore possible career paths in the fields of math, science, and technology,” said Delaney Stephens, community liaison and youth programs coordinator for The Center. “The program also encourages creative thinking and teamwork and builds leadership skills as the region’s next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.”

Rogers Explorers is presented by The Center for Rural Development in partnership with Lindsey Wilson College, University of the Cumberlands, Eastern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, Asbury University, the University of Pikeville, and the newest host site, Union College.

Students spend three days and two nights on one of these leading Kentucky college campuses, where experts guide them through hands-on assignments, all of which encourages participants to build their math, science, and technology skills. The program is provided tuition-free to eligible students within The Center’s 45-county primary service area.

For more information on Rogers Explorers, call The Center at 606-677-6000, email youth@centertech.com, or visit www.centeryouthprogams.com.

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.