- Hometown: Pawtucket, R.I.
- Role: Executive director of Rhode Island’s Joint Committee on Legislative Services
- Years of legislative experience: Four in current role
“I’m proud that I encourage the staff to do their work, as they know the job best. I try to stay out of their way, as I am busy enough with administrative responsibilities.”
Kinch
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
This is my third trip working at the Rhode Island State House. I have worked in all three branches of our state’s government and with the House speaker and the Senate president for many years. When Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi assumed office in 2021, he recruited me from the Rhode Island court system. I view it as an opportunity to assist the leadership of both chambers as they execute their programs.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I’m proud that I encourage the staff to do their work, as they know the job best. I try to stay out of their way, as I am busy enough with administrative responsibilities. That philosophy has served me well in the nearly 40 years that I have served the people of Rhode Island.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
The late Rhode Island Gov. Bruce Sundlun said, “Try to say yes rather than no, do it with a smile, and for goodness sake, do it quickly.”
Who or what inspires you?
My dad is my hero. I followed in his footsteps as president of the Pawtucket, Rhode Island, City Council. He served as mayor for three terms in the ’80s. On the evening I took the oath, I told him that any skills that I may have brought to that job I learned from him. I’m still learning from him.
Henry Kinch, right, with Rhode Island House Speaker Joe Shekarchi.
What’s the one thing you love about your state?
We’re small, so although not literally, “everybody knows everybody.” I’ll stack up our dining scene and beaches to any other place.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading “Big Russ & Me: Father and Son: Lessons of Life,” by Tim Russert. It’s an excellent read. I’m blessed to be the dad to three boys, so the father-son relationship is very special in my life. Thank you to a great team of co-workers for giving it to me. I depend on them every single day.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.