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UT Extension Announces Enhanced Senior Leadership Structure for Tennessee 4-H

Apr 21, 2026

Ryan Hensley, executive director of 4-H youth development for UT Extension and Jamie Harris, State Program Leader for 4-H Youth Development for UT 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.

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UT Extension Announces Enhanced Senior Leadership Structure for Tennessee 4-H

Apr 21, 2026

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