Anne Sparks Appointed Director of Aging and Transportation

Queen Anne’s County is pleased to announce the appointment of Anne “Annie” Sparks as the new Director of Aging and Transportation. This appointment comes as part of the County’s restructuring of the Department of Community Services into two stand-alone departments: Housing and Family Services, and Aging and Transportation.

Sparks has been a valued member of Queen Anne’s County Government for 13 years, serving most recently as the Chief of Aging and Transportation, a position she was the first to hold. Prior to that role, she worked as the County’s Senior Center Administrator and Maryland Access Point Coordinator.

“This position ultimately stems from the forward thinking of the County Commissioners who approached the idea of hiring a Chief of Aging a few years ago when I first mentioned the word retirement.  Fortunately, Annie stepped up then as the Chief and now as the Director.  She has listened, inquired, and learned eagerly and thoughtfully for the last several years and demonstrates the calm, professional demeanor to oversee and lead more than 40 employees and programs.  I am so pleased to pass on my legacy in the field of Aging to an individual who clearly exhibits the skill, compassion, and vision to serve the citizens of Queen Anne’s County, said Cathy Willis, Director of The Department of Community Services.” 

With a degree in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication from Salisbury University and more than 14 years of supervisory experience, Sparks brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to her new position. Before joining county government, she worked as the Program Director for a cognitive brain training center and as a Recruiter and Home Study Worker for a treatment-level foster care agency.

“I am honored to step into this expanded leadership role,” said Sparks. “Over the past 13 years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for our mission and the positive impact we have on the community. My vision is to uphold the strong foundation we’ve built while growing awareness and expanding efforts to help people of all ages prepare for living longer and aging in place.”

As Director, Sparks plans to continue strengthening the department’s core programs while engaging more residents in the services available. “To anyone reading this, I invite you to take a free ride on a County Ride bus, visit one of our four Senior/Active Aging Centers, or schedule an appointment with our Aging office to speak with a Program Specialist,” Sparks added.

Sparks has lived in Maryland her entire life and has called Queen Anne’s County home since 2013. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and performing in local musical theatre productions.