Motlow-Sparta Site Continues Expansion
December 13, 2023
The newest Motlow location is continuing to grow and develop new opportunities through the efforts of recruiters and Motlow-Sparta’s staff. The site reached its highest enrollment in the Fall of 2023 and has several new programs on the horizon.
Pictured, left to right: Renee Austin, Executive Vice President for Business and Finance; Dr. Regina Verdin, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Brelinda Johnson, Executive Vice President for Student Success; Dr. Michael Torrence, President of Motlow; Dr. Erica Lee, Director of Recruitment; and Thomas Turner, Sparta Site Director.
Motlow-Sparta now has over 200 students, which is the highest enrollment since the location’s inception. This growth has allowed for the increase of employee hours and the expansion of classes. The site now offers the following classes on-ground: English, U.S. History, Cultural Geography, Chemistry, Introduction to Business, Computer Applications, Theatre, Psychology, Communications, EMS, and Paramedics. All students still have access to Motlow’s online class options, meaning that many of them are able to complete their degrees entirely from the Sparta site if they choose.
The site has a newly-updated computer lab, library, and testing center so that students have access to physical resources available at other locations. In the future, Motlow-Sparta hopes to offer additional programs of study in response to community workforce needs, including Aviation, Education, and Health Sciences opportunities.
According to Sparta Site Director Thomas Turner, “Rural education is so important. Just like rural health, there are special circumstances and needs for rural education to catch on and thrive! I speak at different organizations and am currently working with the Parks services and the local Sheriff's department for future opportunities."
Recruiters, enrollment events, Motlow’s advertising efforts, and members of the Sparta community all played a part in helping to grow this new site. Many Motlow faculty and staff members from all Motlow locations have assisted in spreading the word and growing opportunities Sparta students can find through Motlow. Students also have access to scholarships and new classroom equipment through the fundraising efforts of the Sparta Advisory Board.
Turner adds, “I want it known that we here at the Sparta site are so grateful for the support we receive from Dr. Regina Verdin [Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs]; she has been so patient and understanding this past year and a half. President Michael Torrence really cares and listens to our needs and challenges. Renee Austin [Executive Vice President for Business and Finance] gives us the leeway we need to get things done. External Affairs and IT have been a huge support as well. We have been visited by many Executives and Deans, and we are so proud to be a part of such a supportive group of people. Motlow-Sparta also extends thanks to our local community for the support they have provided this year and for their continued support as Motlow plans for future growth.”
The Sparta office is located at 603 Roosevelt Drive, Sparta, TN, 38583. Visit our website to learn more.