INEZ — The Center for Rural Development recently paid tribute to one of its founding members, Robert M. “Mike” Duncan, for nearly three decades of leadership and service.
In a ceremony held at Duncan’s Martin County office, Lonnie Lawson, president and CEO of The Center, honored Duncan’s legacy of vision and dedication.
Duncan’s tenure spans from The Center’s inception in 1996 to his current role as director emeritus.
“He has played a pivotal role in helping to create many of our innovative programs and initiatives – including The Center’s flagship youth program Rogers Scholars,” Lawson remarked. “We owe a debt of gratitude that we could never repay to Mike for his leadership, foresight, and dedication to The Center and our region.”
Duncan served on the board from 1996 to 2024, holding the position of chair twice—first from 2002 to 2004 and again from 2021 to 2023.
His instrumental involvement in the creation of Rogers Scholars alongside U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) in 1998 laid the groundwork for what is now one of The Center’s most prominent programs, fostering youth leadership throughout Southern and Eastern Kentucky.
Duncan and his wife, Joanne, make their home in Inez. He has also played a significant role in the local banking industry, serving as chairman, president and CEO of Inez Deposit Bank until its 2021 merger with First State Bank.
Beyond his work with The Center, Duncan continues to influence higher education as chairman of the board of trustees at Alice Lloyd College, a private, four-year liberal arts college in Pippa Passes.
Earlier this year, Duncan was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Fifth District Lincoln Club Banquet in Corbin for his leadership as former Republican National Committee chair.
Founded in 1996, The Center for Rural Development was the brainchild of Congressman Rogers and a group of regional leaders. Its mission to ignite economic development and improve the quality of life for the residents of its 45-county service area continues to shape the landscape of Southern and Eastern Kentucky. Duncan’s 28 years of service have helped define that mission, leaving a legacy that will be felt for years to come.