The following is a compilation from Dr. Sparks’ multiple nominations from the JMU Academic Deans and a colleague. Since his arrival on campus in 2009, Dr George Sparks has embodied all of the character traits that All Together One honors.

The following is a compilation from Dr. Sparks’ multiple nominations from the JMU Academic Deans and a colleague. Since his arrival on campus in 2009, Dr George Sparks has embodied all of the character traits that All Together One honors. 

At his heart, Dr. Sparks is a community builder. Coming from the world of music, he is naturally inclined to bring people together to perform and he has done that at JMU. He has reached across colleges to provide students opportunities to collaborate and learn. He has also been a tireless advocate for faculty, administrators and student collaboration.

One of Dr. Sparks’s signature accomplishments was opening the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts. This facility is an embodiment of community connection, hosting tens of thousands of visitors to connect with the performing arts, our campus ,and artists.

Dr. Sparks is also an inspiration to all who work with him. He approaches his job with a sense of humility and an understanding that the focus of our work must start and end with the students. He has been a mentor to almost all who have served as deans by modeling how to do the job well and without fanfare. His quiet dignity and demeanor shows that he rarely seeks the spotlight or personal accolades. His focus remains on those he serves.

Dr. Spark’s approach to life is characterized by a “can do” attitude that both inspires and demonstrates his concern for the individual. Many have witnessed him go out of his way again and again to help make an opportunity possible for a faculty member or a student. His graciousness is legendary and serves as a model for interpersonal interaction.

Dr. Sparks has been a critical player in helping to build our campus focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, driven by his understanding that CVPA grads who want to work as artists need to understand the business aspect as well as the artistic opportunities. As a result, we have seen a growing array of offerings for students who want to launch businesses or social change.

Dr. Sparks' decision to retire this spring is a fitting one, given his long and accomplished career. However, the entire campus will miss him. Those that work with him directly will miss the person, but JMU as a whole will miss the passion and commitment that he has brought to campus every day for the last eleven years. There was no doubt when the committee read of his unique contributions that Dr. George Sparks was a shining example of the “All Together One” spirit that James Madison University was founded upon.  We hope that this award can be a small thank you for the countless times you went the extra mile for this university and its people.