Just Released: Martin, Webb, Wise, & Barrett selected as Lee County Middle School students to attend the 2024 Rogers Explorers

May 15, 2024

The Center for Rural Development has selected four Lee County eighth-grade students to participate in the 2024 Rogers Explorers Program.

Lee County Middle School students Zavien Martin, Aliyah Webb, Steven “Cooper” Wise, and Emily Barrett have been chosen as Rogers Explorers and invited to attend this summer’s program.

“The Rogers Explorers Program encourages middle school students to develop their leadership skills and explore new adventures while spending time on a leading Kentucky college campus,” said Lonnie Lawson, President and CEO of The Center for Rural Development. “We’re excited to welcome our 2024 Class of Rogers Explorers and for them to start their journey.”

Rogers Explorers is open to eighth-grade students in Southern and Eastern Kentucky who have a strong interest in developing their skills in leadership, team building, community service, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields of study.

This summer, approximately 184 Explorers will be spending three days and two nights at one of six partner Kentucky colleges or universities. While on campus, they will learn valuable leadership skills, complete a community service project, and participate in hands-on learning.

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

Zavien is the son of Jason and Brandi Martin. Aliyah is the daughter of Samantha Sparks and Nick Webb. Steven is the son of Matthew and Charity Wise, and Emily is the daughter of Jessica and Mitchell Barrett. All are from Beattyville.