Justin Cross, a native of Knox County, grew up on a small hobby farm surrounded by sheep, agriculture and a strong sense of community. From an early age, 4-H seemed like a natural fit, but what began as a predictable childhood involvement quickly became a transformative experience that would shape his education, career path and personal mission.
Starting With Sheep
Cross’ introduction to 4-H began with participation in the livestock club and the Tennessee 4-H sheep program. He took part in events such as the State Sheep Expo and competed in livestock-related contests, including Skillathon. These early experiences laid the foundation for his understanding of animal science, agriculture and teamwork.
As he progressed through middle and high school, Cross’ engagement with 4-H grew. He became a member of the Tennessee 4-H Honor Club and was later inducted as a 4-H All Star and became State Council President.
Photo courtesy of Justin Cross
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A key turning point in Cross’ 4-H journey came when he began participating in programs outside of traditional agriculture projects. His involvement in the Healthy Living Summit and other citizenship projects broadened his perspective.
“Outside of sheep and livestock and ag economics, I was really intrigued by the human side of it,” he says.
That interest led him to explore the intersection of agriculture and social issues, which would later contribute to his academic research and career.
Collegiate Accomplishments
Cross’ leadership experience and academic focus made him a competitive candidate for the Haslam Scholars Program at the University of Tennessee. His 4-H background played a critical role in his application, and he credits the organization with helping him develop the communication, leadership and analytical skills that earned him a spot in the prestigious program. He went on to graduate with a double degree in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the Herbert College of Agriculture and Finance from the Haslam College of Business.
Inspired by what he learned in 4-H, Cross focused his undergraduate thesis on immigration labor in American agriculture, specifically in rural Tennessee. The subject matter was a direct reflection of his desire to better understand the people behind the work in the industry, a curiosity first sparked by his involvement in 4-H citizenship programs.
Continuing to Serve
Today, Cross serves as the director of Financial Planning and Analysis for Revida Recovery Centers, an organization focused on opioid addiction recovery with 14 locations across Appalachia. In this role, he uses his financial skills to help build sustainable systems that support individuals and communities impacted by the opioid epidemic. His decision to pursue a mission-driven career is closely tied to the values instilled in him through years of 4-H involvement.
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Photo courtesy of Justin Cross
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Cross has remained active in the 4-H community as an alumnus. He served on the National 4-H Young Alumni Advisory Committee, where he focused on stakeholder engagement and national partnerships. “It was really meaningful to work with national partners and see how their contributions worked their way into communities and individual projects,” he says.
He also continues to give back at the local level, volunteering as a judge for 4-H competitions and mentoring younger members. For Cross, these experiences represent a full-circle moment transitioning from a young participant to a role model helping shape the next generation of 4-H youth.
Justin Cross was a member of the Tennessee 4-H State Council from 2013 to 2016, serving as president 2015-2016.
Active Alumni
When asked to describe his 4-H experience in one word, Cross chooses dynamic, and it’s easy to see why. His journey through the program took unexpected turns, far beyond what he imagined when he first joined the livestock club. 4-H pushed him outside his comfort zone, encouraging him to embrace challenges and grow as a leader. It was also dynamic in the friendships he formed along the way. Through 4-H, Cross built meaningful relationships with peers from across Tennessee and the country. These connections expanded his perspective and continue to shape his life today. The growth, opportunities and lasting bonds all reflect just how meaningful and multi-layered his 4-H experience truly was.
Photo courtesy of Justin Cross
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He encourages today’s youth to take advantage of every opportunity 4-H offers, because you never know the impact it could have. He also shares that stepping out of your comfort zone is key because until you take the leap, you won’t know what possibilities lie ahead. One of the greatest strengths of 4-H, he says, is its range. There’s room to explore new interests, develop new skills and shape your own path.
Cross’ journey is a testament to the lasting impact of 4-H. While his path is uniquely his own, it mirrors the transformative growth experienced by so many young leaders shaped by the program. His life continues to reflect the organization’s mission: developing capable, compassionate individuals committed to creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond.