Union City, Tenn.–The Obion County Fall Fest Board of Directors is proud to announce Art Sparks as the 2025 recipient of the Pride of Obion County Award. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, civic involvement, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of Obion County.
“Obviously, I am humbled and appreciative of the award. The award should really go to everyone who has supported me throughout my career – my grandparents, my parents, friends, children, and my wife Tammy, who have supported me in everything that I do. I give them the credit, period,” says Sparks.
With more than four decades of service to his profession as a public accountant and his community, Sparks, a Principal at Alexander Thompson Arnold Advisory, LLC, has earned statewide and national recognition while always remaining rooted in his beloved Obion County. Art is currently serving as Chair of the UT Martin Advisory Board, Vice Chair of the UT Foundation, on the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors, the Tennessee Business Roundtable, and as CEO of the Miss Tennessee Volunteer Pageant.
His record of past leadership and accolades is equally extensive: Chair of the Obion County Joint Economic Development Corporation, Chair of the Tennessee Society of CPAs, Chair of the American Institute of CPAs, President of the Union City Rotary Club, Tennessee State Board of Accountancy, and service on the inaugural Board of Directors at Discovery Park of America. Sparks has been honored with the UT Martin Distinguished Service Award (1998), the WestStar “Make a Difference” Alumni Award (2023), and is a proud member of the WestStar Class of 2016. As a dedicated supporter of youth and education, Sparks also spent decades on the radio broadcasting Union City High School athletics.
The Sparks family has been deeply involved with establishing the Obion County Fall Fest pageant system. First with the local Miss Fall Fest pageants, and later, helping establish the Miss Fall Fest Volunteer and Miss Northwest Tennessee Volunteer pageants. The Sparks family remained involved with these local pageants until becoming CEOs of the Miss Tennessee Volunteer Pageant in 2021. At this year’s pageant, the inaugural “Sparkle Award” was introduced in memory of Art’s late wife, Tammy, recognizing the enduring contributions of the Sparks family to the organization and the community.
Beyond his titles, Sparks is passionate about causes close to his heart, including his church, Union City First Methodist Church, the University of Tennessee at Martin, the Union City School Foundation, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. When asked, Sparks added: “The thing I’m most passionate about is trying to improve Obion County, to make it more livable, and work with surrounding counties as a regional concept to improve the overall quality of Northwest Tennessee.”
It is evident that his actions reflect these passions, with nominations reading:
“His impact on regional economic development efforts can be seen across Obion County and West Tennessee. Of course, I am not telling you anything you don’t already know. What you might not know is that all the work he has done as a volunteer was to help others and not for recognition. He did it to make his community, region and university a better place to live and work. For years, he has placed others before himself, being a true servant leader, inspiring others to reach for the stars.”
“In every conversation, he championed issues that matter most to his home — Obion County. His deep pride in the people, businesses, and character of the county is unmistakable, and he carries that pride wherever he goes.”
“His life has been a constant example of leadership, service, and devotion to others, not for applause or recognition, but because he believes in doing what is right for our neighbors and for the place we call home. For as long as I can remember, he has quietly given to others without hesitation. Whether it was lending a hand, offering his time, or stepping in when someone was in need, he has always put people first.”
“Art embodies the spirit of Obion County through his tireless community involvement, thoughtful civic leadership, and community enrichment. Art’s work has touched families across our county and created lasting positive change. Just as he did for me while growing up in Obion County and still to this day.”
And, as one individual concludes – “Best of all, Art is a model of integrity, consistency and courageous character. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award.”
Sparks will be formally recognized at the Pride of Obion County Luncheon on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Discovery Park of America. The luncheon has been rescheduled from its original date to increase the capacity for seating.