Nickolas Seals Selected as 2025 Roger's Explorer

 Nickolas Seals, a Jackson County Middle School student, has been accepted to represent Jackson County as a 2025 Roger's Explorer. The Rogers Explorers program is an intensive three-day, two-night initiative designed to cultivate skills in leadership, technology, math, science, and community service. Developed and coordinated by The Center for Rural Development in partnership with several universities, including the University of the Cumberlands, Lindsey Wilson College, Eastern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, University of Pikeville, and Union College, the program offers a unique blend of educational and fun activities. Nickolas has been assigned to Rogers Explorers at Eastern Kentucky University to be conducted at the end of July 2025. 

Participants, known as Explorers, actively engage in hands-on classroom projects, practical college courses, and leadership skill development. The program aims to foster original thinking and problem-solving abilities among students. Students from The Center's 45-county service area can apply during their eighth-grade year, and if selected, they attend the program in various locations such as Williamsburg, Columbia, Richmond, Morehead, Pikeville, or Barbourville during the summer before their ninth-grade year. 

All lodging, meals, and program expenses are covered, with the exception of transportation to and from the program. The Rogers Explorers program not only provides valuable educational experiences but also helps students develop a network of friends and resources throughout Southern and Eastern Kentucky.