Regional Engagement through the Rogers Explorers Program: Linking Higher Education to Appalachian Counties

A key contribution of regional, comprehensive universities should be the development of meaningful and effective programs that will further the communities within their service areas. One example of an effective regional engagement program is highlighted in the following reflection. For five years, the Rogers Explorers program has introduced high school students to higher education. These transitioning eighth graders (many of whom would be first-generation college students) are introduced to critical and creative thinking, teamwork, and leadership development skills during the summer program. This reflection was developed by two university professors who took part in the Rogers Explorers program in an effort to further explain the benefits of the experience which could serve as a national best practice example for regional engagement. “No young person should have to leave home to find his or her future.” – U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal ” Rogers A critical function of a regional comprehensive university is to provide effective community engagement and regional stewardship. Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has a long tradition of service to its region, which spans 22 southeastern Kentucky countie