To get a deeper look into issues in rural Kentucky that often lead students to leave the area, The Center for Rural Development’s Higher Education Consortium went to the source—today’s college students and the future leaders of Southern and Eastern Kentucky. Berea students Nathan Hall and Samantha Cole met at The Center’s headquarters in Somerset to provide input on how to keep more future leaders in Southern and Eastern Kentucky.

“We need desirable, decent paying jobs and a good quality of life to retain our young people,” Hall said. “Strict enforcement of environmental regulations and implementation of innovative renewable energy projects will help to transform the region for the better.”

During the summit, participants were encouraged to freely share their thoughts and concerns and speak out on issues affecting student retention. Their input is critical toward the belief of keynote speaker U.S. Congressman “Hal” Rogers—and shared by The Center—that “no young person should have to leave home to find his or her future. Thanks to the ARC, a new line of communication opened today between our students and current leaders. Together, we hope to find solutions for immediate problems and those that could meet our students at retirement age.”

By Sharon Dodson, The Center for Rural Development