4-H Alumni Spotlight – Senator Ernie Harris

By: Paige Hart

 The Kentucky 4-H Foundation is pleased to announce a new monthly feature the 4-H Alumni Spotlight.  This is our opportunity to highlight and honor the Kentucky 4-H Alumni that are making a lasting impact on Kentucky 4-H, in their communities, across the Commonwealth, or around the world.  You’re encouraged to join us every third Friday of the month to see who’s in the 4-H Alumni Spotlight.  It might be someone you know!

We are elated to announce that our first 4-H alumnus in the spotlight is State Senator Ernie Harris.  While you may see him around Frankfort representing the 26^th district which encompasses all of Oldham and part of Jefferson County, he could once be found roaming around a 4-H event.

Ernie began 4-H as soon as he could in Oldham County.  He said, “Being a farm kid, you either got involved with 4-H or FFA. FFA was high school, so you started out in 4-H.”  He explains, “A whole new world opened for me when I joined the Brownsboro 4-H Club. “

In the center Ernie Harris is recognized for his National Leadership Scholarship at the 1965 National 4-H Congress.

When he began, he loved participating in electricity, dairy, and poultry.  He has fond memories of showing his cattle at fairs and accredits 4-H with teaching him his tractor maintenance and electricity skills that he still employs today.  He also entered projects at the Kentucky State Fair, gave speeches and demonstrations and got involved with leadership opportunities. Ernie attended National Congress in Chicago, Illinois twice: in 1964 for his electricity project book and in 1965 as one of twelve National Leadership Scholarship winners.

Ernie recalls the lasting memory of being elected State 4-H President at 4-H Week in June of 1965.  As President, he traveled to the different regions to promote the 4-H program.  He recalls a time when his team traveled the state to award plaques to community members and businesses that were dedicated to supporting 4-H. “I did not have the fancy green blazers officers wear now, I had a green jacket with the 4-H clover on the back.” Following his hard work and dedication during his presidential year, he was selected as the Outstanding 4-H Boy for 1966.

The 1964 National 4-H Congress delegation, Ernie Harris is in the fourth row from the front, third from the left.

When looking back on the values that shaped him personally, Ernie attributes his participation in 4-H for growing his leadership abilities, public presence, and communications skills.  While 4-H did not specifically influence his career choice, the tools he had learned enhanced his career choices as a Senator, Dairy and Tobacco Farmer and Air Force Veteran.

While 4-H was more agriculturally driven when he was involved, Ernie is glad to see that 4-H has kept up with the times and has expanded over the generations. “4-H continues to make a difference in the lives of youth by making an impact where the need is greatest.” Ernie encourages any youth or parent considering 4-H to find an area in 4-H that interest them. “Jump in with both feet and get involved; there are so many things to do and the benefits are countless.”

Ernie Harris, second from the left, promoting 4-H at a regional dairy show.

Ernie believes strongly in paying it back to the 4-H community.  “4-H gave me so much, I want to help other kids have that opportunity as well.” Ernie was proud when his middle son, David, got involved with 4-H and even served as a member of the State Teen Council.  Ernie took all of his kids to 4-H camp one summer and deeply cherishes those memories.

4-H fostered his growth in so many realms and we are pleased to have Ernie as our first 4-H Alumni Spotlight.  He truly showcases the benefits that a 4-H background bestows upon its members. As the young Ernie said, “The 4-H club is the best youth organization I know of that develops leadership among its members…I am proud of the total program and am grateful for having been a member.”