Story By Katie Hightower
IMPACT Learning Center recently announced Amanda Sparks as the center’s new director. Cathy Mitchell will retire after serving as the center’s director for the past 12 years. For decades, the IMPACT Learning Center has served Jackson County by providing vital workforce development through its job skills training programs and educational opportunities.
Prior to accepting the position with IMPACT, Sparks worked as the manager of the Hollywood 10 movie theater in Scottsboro. When Sparks started working there in 2018, she decided to expand the theater’s social media presence on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Through her work, she expanded the theater’s number of followers from 600 to more than 22,000. Sparks became known throughout the county for her collaborations and partnerships with area businesses and nonprofits, which not only helped the theater’s business, but also helped Jackson County’s locally owned businesses and local nonprofits as well.
“I always wanted to help the community and do something that benefits Jackson County. I loved working with the movie theater because it gave me the opportunity to work with small businesses and nonprofits,” Sparks said.
Sparks looked forward to the opportunity with IMPACT because she saw it as another way of giving back to Jackson County.
“When I saw the IMPACT position posted online, I thought, ‘Why not?’” Sparks said.
When Sparks took the director position, she knew she was stepping into a major role due to her predecessor’s reputation. She knew Mitchell well and knew a lot about what IMPACT Learning Center does for the community.
“Cathy does all this work and makes it look so effortless; I’ve always admired her,” Sparks said. “I know I have big shoes to fill and I may not be able to fill them, so I will have to make my own shoes and find my own way.”
Sparks said she planned to build and expand on what Mitchell implemented.
“As far as improvements go, I don’t see any improvements needed. Cathy did an excellent job with this. I would just like to build on what is already here to reach more people so they can benefit from our services,” Sparks said.
Sparks was excited about being a part of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. She said she loved the idea of books reaching the hands of children. A huge Dolly fan, Sparks said she aspired to be like Dolly and give back to her community like Dolly has done.
Sparks graduated from Pisgah High School and earned a degree from Northeast Alabama Community College. She appreciated all of the opportunities Jackson County has given her, and that is what has driven her to give back to the community.
“Jackson County will always be home for me. It’s where I figured out who I was and made me who I am,” Sparks said.
Mitchell said she had many emotions about leaving.
“I’m sad, but it’s also exciting. I’m glad to see a new vision coming to IMPACT Learning Center. Amanda is going to be great here, and I’m looking forward to seeing it grow under her leadership,” Mitchell said.
