Fifteen years ago First Leadership was the vision of Dick Trammel, Carl Baggett and Raymond Burns as well as many other community leaders.  Their vision was to help create future leaders in the Rogers, AR area.  Arvest Bank teamed up with the Rogers/Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce to launch the program.

Each September Sophomores & Juniors from Rogers High School and Heritage High School are encouraged to apply for the program.  Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.0, display of leadership potential, yet not be overly involved in extra-curricular activities, and show a desire to be involved in the community.

Up to 20 students are chosen to participate in the program.  Those students who are chose for the program must maintaining passing grades in all courses throughout First Leadership and attend all First Leadership sessions.

There are nine sessions where students learn everything from human services to personal finance.  Each year the students tour Little Rock where students get to meet Governor Beebe and visit various cultural and historic sites like the Clinton Library, Central High Museum and the Arkansas Arts Center.  First Leadership also allows students to interact with community and business leaders who they otherwise might not have the opportunity to meet.  Students are also required to complete 8 hours of community service.

The deadline for applications is September 3rd.  Applications are available at rogerslowell.com and the offices at Rogers High School and Heritage High School.