HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Rick Sanders, who led Jackson County’s parks and recreation department for 26 years, will take over as Habersham County’s parks and recreation director Nov. 30.
Sanders brings more than 35 years of recreation experience, including developing parks, renovating facilities and establishing programs. His career also includes serving as director of recreational sports at the University of North Georgia and coaching college softball at UNG and Emmanuel College.
Dozens applied for the job
The county selected Sanders from more than 40 applicants. Eleven candidates with experience as parks and recreation directors completed video interviews, and four advanced to in-person interviews. The selection committee agreed Sanders was the best fit for the position and community.
Sanders remains active in recreation leadership across Georgia. He serves on the Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s State Athletic Committee and represents District 7 on its Public Policy Committee. He is scheduled to serve as District 7 chairman-elect in 2027.
He also serves as vice-commissioner of finance on the North Georgia Youth Football Association’s executive board. The organization includes more than 32 high school youth feeder football programs across Northeast Georgia.
Sanders and his wife of 36 years, Patty, have one son, Nicholas, who works as an educator. The family attends Free Chapel.
In announcing the hire, Habersham County thanked interim director Terry Lannon for leading the department over the past 18 months. The county credited Lannon with maintaining daily operations and keeping recreation services available during the search.
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