Democrat John Sparks' roots run deep in Oklahoma. Raised in Sulphur near his family's ranch, which was founded before statehood, John remains actively involved in family ranching. His football, 4-H, and academic talents at Sulphur High School allowed him to attend Harvard College where he was an All Ivy League defensive tackle. During college, John also served as an intern for then Senator David Boren. After receiving his degree, John returned to his beloved home state, earning a law degree from the University of Oklahoma, where his interests included the American Indian Law Review.

Upon graduation from law school, John's strong attraction to public service took him to Washington, DC, where he served as a legislative aide to Oklahoma Congressman Bill Brewster. While there, John spent over a year serving the people of Oklahoma, working on issues such as the environment, defense, agriculture, international trade and Native American affairs.

Committed to improving Oklahoma, John again returned home to begin his legal career. He worked at the law firms of Crowe & Dunlevy and Foliart, Huff, Ottaway & Bottom. After practicing as a litigator for several years, he started his own business, Corner Post at which he worked every day to improve access to medical care for children, senior citizens and children and adults recovering from mental illness. In 2008, John was a founding partner at the law firm Odom, Sparks & Jones in Norman where he currently practices.

In 2006, John was elected to the State Senate from District 16 where he serves on the Education, Finance, Retirement and Insurance, and Rules Committees. During his four years in office, John has earned a reputation as a bridge builder, interested in lasting solutions to the problems facing Oklahoma. He has been honored with the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education's Distinguished Service Award.

Even as a busy professional, John understands the importance of a strong community. He has served as President of the Cleveland County Bar Association and Chairman of the Cleveland County Workforce Investment Board, which assists the unemployed in finding training and work in Cleveland County. He is also a dedicated volunteer with the United Way of Norman and a former member of the boards of Health for Friends and the Thunderbird Clubhouse, which supports adults recovering from mental illness in Cleveland and McClain Counties.

He continues to be an active member of the Sooner Rotary Club, as well as a member of the Norman Chamber of Commerce. A graduate of the Leadership Norman Class of 2000-2001, John chaired the Leadership Norman Class of 2002-2003, inspiring others to become leaders in the Norman community, as he has done for many years. Following a long family tradition, John is a member of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau, Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association and now the Cleveland County Cattlemen's Association.

John and his wife of fourteen years, Elizabeth Sneed Sparks, have two sons Hunt, 6th grade, and Benjamin, 3rd grade. They are active members of McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church, where they serve on the Administrative Board.