DIRECTOR
AMANDA SPARKS
Amanda Sparks is a lifelong advocate for education, community development, and economic opportunity in Jackson County. A graduate of Pisgah High School and Northeast Alabama Community College, she brings deep local roots, a strong understanding of the community, and years of leadership, marketing, and partnership-building experience to her role as Director of IMPACT Learning Center, a position she assumed in December 2025.
Before joining IMPACT, Amanda served as CEO and Marketing Director for Rainbow Cinemas, LLC. During her years with Hollywood 10 Cinema in Scottsboro, she became affectionately known throughout the community as “the movie lady.” Beyond promoting films, Amanda used her platform to champion locally owned businesses, support community initiatives, create meaningful partnerships, and help bring people together.
Her professional background also includes experience in higher education, admissions, administration, marketing, event planning, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement. Throughout her career, Amanda has focused on building relationships, identifying opportunities, and connecting people with resources that help them move forward.
Amanda’s commitment to public service extends well beyond her professional work. She served as Vice Chair for the City of Scottsboro on the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce from 2021 through 2025 and continues to support organizations and initiatives that strengthen families, businesses, and communities across Jackson County, including the United Givers Fund of Jackson County.
As Director of IMPACT Learning Center, Amanda leads with a belief that education can change the direction of a person’s life and strengthen an entire community. Her work centers on expanding access to learning, workforce development, digital skills, career readiness, leadership opportunities, and community-based programming for people of all ages. She is especially passionate about creating partnerships that turn good ideas into meaningful, sustainable opportunities for Jackson County residents.
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Assistant
Matthew Strickland
Matthew Strickland is a creative, dependable, and versatile professional with experience in customer service, administration, technology, graphic design, and digital communication. His diverse background includes work in internet sales, systems administration, office support, healthcare administration, maintenance, and customer service, giving him a broad skill set and a practical, adaptable approach to problem-solving.
At IMPACT Learning Center, Matthew uses his strengths in communication, technology, design, and community outreach to help connect individuals with educational opportunities and valuable local resources. He is committed to making learning feel accessible, helping others build confidence, and supporting programs that create meaningful, lasting benefits for the community.
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As Director of IMPACT Learning Center, Amanda leads with a belief that education can change the direction of a person’s life and strengthen an entire community. Her work centers on expanding access to learning, workforce development, digital skills, career readiness, leadership opportunities, and community-based programming for people of all ages. She is especially passionate about creating partnerships that turn good ideas into meaningful, sustainable opportunities for Jackson County residents.