The Center for Rural Development is accepting applications from high school students in Southern and Eastern KY for a new summer leadership program
The Center for Rural Development is accepting applications for a new summer leadership program that will give high school students in Southern and Eastern Kentucky the skills they need to succeed as future business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Rogers LEADS (Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Achievement, Development, and Service) is an intensive, week-long day camp focused on developing teamwork, business, and entrepreneurship skills; providing an outlet to explore career pathways; and participating in hands-on college-level activities.
“We are excited to announce we are reshaping our summer youth leadership programs to give high school students the tools they need to become our region’s future business leaders and entrepreneurs,” said Lonnie Lawson, President and CEO of The Center for Rural Development. “Participants will not only expand their leadership and entrepreneurial skills, but they will have access to college scholarship opportunities upon completion of the program to help make their dreams come true.”
Rogers LEADS is scheduled for July 27-31, 2026, on the campus of The Center for Rural Development in Somerset, KY. This is a day camp and does not include overnight lodging.
High school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who have a minimum 2.5 GPA and reside within The Center’s 45-county primary service area in Southern and Eastern Kentucky are eligible to apply. The application period runs from March 6-March 31. Students may apply online at www.centeryouthprograms.com.
Rogers LEADS was developed specifically for high school students interested in cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and strengthening the skills needed to become effective business leaders.
“Our hope is that students use Rogers LEADS to help develop their leadership and entrepreneurial skills while exploring opportunities in new industries and technologies,” said Amber Decker, Youth Programs Coordinator and Community Liaison. “This is a wonderful program for students throughout our region to come together to learn and grow into the business leaders of tomorrow.”
There is no cost to attend Rogers LEADS, thanks to generous supporters and partners, including the Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation.
Rogers LEADS is one of three summer youth leadership programs coordinated by The Center for Rural Development. Rogers Scholars – the flagship program – is a week-long program for upcoming high school juniors. Rogers Explorers is a three-day, two-night program for upcoming high school freshmen that focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics).
For more information about Rogers LEADS or any of the other summer youth leadership programs, please contact Amber Decker or Amy Ellis at 606-677-6000 or emailyouth@centertech.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.
