Each year, the Tennessee 4-H Foundation produces an Annual Report filled with donor recognition, financial reports and stories highlighting outstanding 4-H’ers and programs. Read on for Tennessee 4-H updates, sponsors in the spotlight and Alumni news.

Effective May 1, Ryan Hensley will take on the role of executive director, and Jamie Harris will serve as state program leader.

These appointments reflect an intentional effort to enhance Tennessee 4-H’s leadership capacity at a time when the size, visibility, and complexity of the program continue to grow. By sharpening leadership focus in both the organizational and programmatic dimensions of Tennessee 4-H, we are building on the program’s longstanding strengths while positioning it for even greater prominence and impact in the years ahead.

"Together, Ryan and Jamie bring complementary talents that will help Tennessee 4-H move forward with clarity, energy, and purpose," says Justin Rhinehart, UT Extension Dean and Professor.

4-H’ers are exposed to education, leadership, citizenship, friendship and professionalism through their project areas, clubs, service projects and events.

Junior High 4-H’ers are immersed in hands-on learning and real-world experiences at the annual Tennessee 4-H Academic Conference, which celebrated its 35th year in 2025.

The Tennessee 4-H Foundation recognizes individuals, families and organizations that have made significant donations to the 4-H Program by naming them Hall of Fame Donors.

In April 2025, the Tennessee General Assembly and Gov. Bill Lee approved a budget that included $45.25 million for infrastructure enhancements, including 4-H STEM laboratories, expanded lodging, improved technology and other amenities across the four 4-H centers.

“Supporting 4-H is essential for nurturing the next generation of leaders. It equips youth with valuable skills and experiences that foster innovation and resilience. By investing in 4-H, we are not just shaping individuals, we are strengthening our communities and ensuring a vibrant future.”
– Claire Hill, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative Foundation Executive Director 

“Learning by doing is the way to go, and that’s the way 4-H goes. Providing those opportunities for young people and their parents to have the time and effort to participate is just so important.”
– Ben Powell, past State 4-H Leader

Since 1975, Tennessee 4-H Alumni has been on a mission to create a network of alumni who are passionate about continuing to support the 4-H mission through mentoring, volunteering, judging and offering financial support.

“From an early age, 4-H gave me confidence, a strong work ethic and the ability to work with people from all walks of life. These skills have been essential throughout my career in agriculture and public service.”

– Andy Holt, Commissioner of Agriculture

“4-H taught me life-skills that have been very beneficial, including the importance of building teams, working together, volunteering and being part of your community.”

– Helen McPeak, Executive Director, Wilson County Promotions

“The public speaking contests gave me a foundation for my job as a television meteorologist. I gained confidence to speak in public, even if I didn’t always win the contest.”

– Lelan Statum, Senior Meteorologist, NewsChannel 5 Nashville

“4-H taught me confidence, courage and success. The relationships I built are still a meaningful part of the network I depend on today.”

– Josh Webber, Chief Transformation Officer, Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee

“I’m incredibly grateful my parents encouraged me to join 4-H – it taught me essential life skills, like leadership, communication, hard work and resilience.”

– Lydia White, Orthopedic Surgeon; Olympic Team U.S.A. Doctor

CONTACT US

Tennessee 4-H Foundation
205 Morgan Hall, 2621 Morgan Circle
Knoxville, TN  37996

Phone: 865-974-2233  | Tn4HFoundation@utk.edu