The Rogers Scholars program was developed and initiated by The Center for Rural Development in 1998 to address, and reverse, the high level of out migration suffered by our rural service area. The program, whose namesake is Congressman Hal Rogers, is designed to help The Center move toward it’s vision that no young person should have to leave their home region to find their future – they can find it right here in Southern and Eastern Kentucky.

Students apply during their sophomore year in high school, and those selected through a competitive process attend the program during the summer before their junior year. The program is held in Somerset and the surrounding area, with most events taking place at The Center. Students are housed at a local hotel, and all lodging, meals, and program expenses (with the exception of transportation to and from the program) are free to the student.

Rogers Scholars is an intensive, weeklong program focusing on developing skills in leadership, technology, entrepreneurship, and community service. Activities are both educational and fun, and the week is filled with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for these young people. The students are able to meet people and enjoy experiences that allow them to “get outside their box,” broaden their horizons, and consider their future from a new and different perspective. They are encouraged to consider utilizing their talents to make their livelihood in their home region; to become leaders in the continued efforts to improve the quality of life in Southern and Eastern Kentucky .

Scholars are able to participate in majors in Video Production, Information Technology (networking, web development, etc.), and Engineering – all taught by professionals and experts in the various fields. Leadership activities include everything from climbing a 55′Alpine tower at the Team Leadership Center to meeting nationally recognized speakers. They receive entrepreneurial training to help them realize they can become an employer or create their own job in the future; they aren’t limited to being an employee. By the end of the week, students are required to identify a community service project that they are expected to implement upon returning home. This project allows the students to utilize what they have learned immediately, and ultimately encourages their long-term commitment to the region.

The program is developed and supervised by The Center’s Leadership department, with other departments and organizations involved in the implementation. A total of 60 students will be selected for the program each year.