The Center for Rural Development accepting applications for 2026 Rogers Scholars and Rogers Explorers Programs
The Center for Rural Development is accepting applications for the 2026 Rogers Scholars and Rogers Explorers summer youth leadership programs. Students may apply online at www.centeryouthprograms.com through Jan. 31, 2026.
Rogers Scholars (current 10th graders) provides valuable leadership skills and exclusive college scholarship opportunities for high school students to seize their potential as the region’s next generation of leaders. Scholars spend one week on the campus of Lindsey Wilson University or Morehead State University.
Rogers Explorers (current 8th graders) focuses on leadership development, technology, teamwork, and career pathway exploration in STEM and other fields. Explorers spend three days and two nights on one of the following college campuses: Lindsey Wilson University, University of the Cumberlands, Eastern Kentucky University, Union Commonwealth University, University of Pikeville, or Morehead State University.
Eligible students must live within The Center’s 45-county primary service area, which includes: Adair, Bath, Bell, Boyd, Breathitt, Carter, Casey, Clay, Clinton, Cumberland, Elliott, Estill, Floyd, Garrard, Green, Harlan, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Meniffe, Metcalfe, Monroe, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Rowan, Russell, Taylor, Wayne, Whitley, and Wolfe.
Applications for both Rogers Scholars and Rogers Explorers must be submitted online by January 31, 2026, at www.centeryouthprograms.com.
For more information, 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.
