From state-level leadership to a career in marketing and communications, Henry Kilpatrick’s 4-H journey helped shape the path he continues to follow today.
Henry Kilpatrick is the Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Jackson State Community College. What many people do not know is that he is also a former Tennessee 4-H member and a recipient of the Vol State Award, the highest honor a Tennessee 4-H’er can receive.
Henry’s passion for user-centered design and meaningful storytelling has shaped a career that spans higher education, government, and themed entertainment. Across these sectors, his work has earned regional and national recognition in commercial advertising, marketing campaigns, graphic design, and digital media.
His foundation for leadership began in 4-H.
During his 4-H career, Henry participated in Roundup, Congress, Citizenship Washington Focus, All Star Retreats, Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference, and Target Smart. He volunteered for years at the 4-H Chicken Shack during the West Tennessee State Fair, competed in Outdoor Meat Cookery, and submitted annual portfolio projects in horticulture and photography.
Henry earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Austin Peay State University and continues to give back as a mentor and advisor to multiple boards and organizations throughout Jackson.
Fun fact: Henry is married to his high school sweetheart, Alaina, a former Hardeman County 4-H member and champion in Horse Bowl, Meat Judging, and Speech. They met on a bus ride to University of Tennessee Knoxville. The rest is history.
Henry credits 4-H with shaping the leadership and networking skills he uses every day.
“4-H gave me purpose during the fundamental years of my youth. It helped me come out of my shell, meet people from all walks of life, and grow as a person. Through 4-H, I gained experiences I would not have had otherwise. Those moments taught me how to network, lead, and contribute to something bigger than myself. Best of all, I would not have met my wife if it were not for 4-H.”
