Thirty students from Southern and Eastern Kentucky graduated from the third class of The Center for Rural Development’s 2019 Rogers Explorers program held June 16-18 on the campus of Lindsey Wilson College.

Among those students in the program was Clinton County Middle School eighth grader Sadie Moons.

Sadie is the daughter of Josh and Amanda Moons, of Albany.

Rogers Explorers is open to eighth-grade middle school students within The Center’s 45-county primary service area who have a strong interest in developing their skills in leadership, team building, community service, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields of study.

“These past few days have been an unforgettable experience,” said 2019 Rogers Explorers graduate Emily Mills. “I’ve had my eyes opened in many different topics. I’ve started an interest in anything medical because of this program. Thank you Explorers for allowing me to meet new friends and have an insight on what my future could look like.”

The Center selected a total of 211 students from throughout the region to attend this year’s Rogers Explorers program. Participants spend three days and two nights on a leading Kentucky college campus where experts guide them through hands-on assignments to help build their leadership skills and explore different career pathways.

“For most of these students, this is the first time they will experience life on a college campus setting and to seriously begin thinking about different career choices before they enter their freshman year in high school,” said Lonnie Lawson, President and CEO of The Center. “We want to give students the knowledge and tools they need to discover their career pathways and to plan for the future. Congratulations to all of our Rogers Explorers graduates.”

The Rogers Explorers program is presented by The Center in partnership with Lindsey Wilson College, Eastern Kentucky University, Asbury University, University of the Cumberlands, Morehead State University, the University of Pikeville, and Union College. The program is provided tuition-free to applicants who meet the eligibility requirements.

For more information about Rogers Explorers, call 606-677-6000 or email Allison Cross at across@centertech.com. Visit centeryouthprograms.com to learn more about the program.