New structure will position Tennessee 4-H to continue immense, positive impact on state’s youth
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – “Making the best better.” That’s a motto of the Tennessee 4-H Youth Development Program. It’s also the goal for a new leadership structure for the state’s historic youth development program, operated by University of Tennessee Extension.
UT Extension is strengthening the senior leadership structure of Tennessee 4-H through the appointment of Ryan Hensley as Executive Director of 4-H Youth Development and Jamie Harris as State Program Leader for 4-H Youth Development. Together, these roles are designed to enhance Tennessee 4-H’s statewide leadership capacity, build on the organization’s historic strengths, and position the program for even greater prominence and impact in the years ahead.
Tennessee 4-H is the nation’s largest in-school 4-H club program with some 151,000 members across the state. Through clubs, camps, school enrichment, special interest programs and leadership experiences in each of the state’s grand divisions and all 95 counties, Tennessee 4-H helps young people build the skills, confidence and character needed to thrive in school, work and life.
In announcing the new leadership appointments, Justin Rhinehart, dean of UT Extension, says the new enhanced structure reflects a thoughtful investment in the future of Tennessee 4-H. “By sharpening leadership focus in both organizational and programmatic areas, UT Extension is building on the strong foundation that has long distinguished Tennessee 4-H while equipping the program with an even stronger framework for the future.” The goal is clear, he says, to strengthen Tennessee 4-H by pairing proven fundamentals with an intentional leadership approach that supports excellence, consistency and impact across the state. “Together Ryan and Jamie bring complementary strengths that will help Tennessee 4-H move forward with clarity, energy and purpose.”
Ryan Hensley brings a strong combination of strategic leadership, relationship-building, and organizational stewardship to the Executive Director role. Through his service as director of the Tennessee 4-H Foundation, he has helped advance the Foundation’s reach, momentum and visibility while building meaningful support for Tennessee 4-H. His experience in development, partnership cultivation, and long-range leadership positions him well to help guide the broader Tennessee 4-H enterprise, including strategy, operations and continued growth in statewide support. A native of Loudon County, he is a third generation 4-H’er and was an active participant beginning in fourth grade. His 4-H pedigree includes camping, being a state winner in both the sheep and leadership projects, and attending the National 4-H Congress. “4-H has helped make me the person I am now. It’s helped me with decision-making, communications, and all aspects of life,” he says. Hensley adds that one goal he has for himself in his new role is to enhance the resources and training available for staff across the state.
Jamie Harris is a resident of Warren County, Tennessee, but grew up in Pickett County. She brings deep knowledge of Tennessee 4-H, strong credibility across the organization, and a clear commitment to program excellence to the State Program Leader role. Through her leadership as interim director for the program since October 2023, she has ensured continuity and stability during an important period for the program. Her 30 years of experience in Tennessee 4-H, understanding of program delivery, and dedication to youth development make her especially well-suited to help lead statewide program priorities, strengthen support for professionals across the system, and continue advancing the quality and reach of Tennessee 4-H programming. Harris says, “Having the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of young people through education and meaningful relationships is what first drew me to a career in 4-H. I have always been passionate about youth development and believe in the power of educational programming to help young people build confidence, develop life skills and reach their full potential.”
“Tennessee 4-H has a remarkable history and a strong foundation,” Rhinehart adds. “This leadership structure allows us to build on that strength in a way that sharpens our focus, supports our people and positions Tennessee 4-H for even greater impact in the future. Ryan and Jamie each bring distinct talents to this work, and I am confident Tennessee 4-H will be stronger because of their leadership.”
“Tennessee 4-H has long been a cornerstone of youth development in our state, empowering young people with the skills and confidence to succeed. I’m confident that with Ryan and Jamie in these roles, the program will build on its proud legacy while embracing new opportunities ahead,” comments Keith Carver, senior vice chancellor and senior vice president of the UT Institute of Agriculture.
The pair begin their new appointments effective May 1.
UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the UT Institute of Agriculture. It is a statewide educational organization, funded by federal, state and local governments, that brings research-based information about agriculture, family and consumer sciences, and resource development to the people of Tennessee where they live and work.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is comprised of the Herbert College of Agriculture, UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch, and UT Extension. Through its land-grant mission of teaching, research and outreach, the Institute touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennesseans and beyond. utia.tennessee.edu.