Talbot County, Maryland

04/14/2026

Category: Finance County Manager’s Office County Council

Three Talbot County Government employees—Martha Sparks, Kristen Goller, and Sarah Kilmon—have been selected to participate in the Shore Leadership 2026 program, a regional initiative designed to cultivate and connect leaders across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Each participant was selected based on demonstrated leadership, commitment to public service, and a strong investment in the future of the region.

Martha Sparks, Director of Finance, has served Talbot County since 2022 and has played a key role in strengthening the County’s financial operations. Through her leadership, Sparks has focused on implementing process improvements that enhance efficiency, transparency, and long-term fiscal sustainability, helping position the County for continued success.

Kristen Goller, Tourism Manager for Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism and Staff Administrator for the Talbot250 Commission, works to promote Talbot County as a destination while supporting strategic initiatives tied to heritage tourism and economic growth.

Sarah Kilmon, Public Information Officer for Talbot County and Staff Administrator for the Talbot250 Commission, leads public information and community engagement efforts across departments. Through strategic communications, storytelling, and partnerships, she connects residents to County initiatives and helps elevate programs that strengthen community identity and participation.

Goller, Sparks, and Kilmon are among 24 individuals selected for the nine-month, hands-on leadership program. Sessions are held in a different Eastern Shore county each month and provide participants with the opportunity to engage directly with regional leaders and explore the economic, cultural, and social dynamics that shape the Shore.

“We remain committed to leveraging the Shore Leadership program to strengthen our leadership team’s skills and broaden their awareness of the many organizations that help shape the Mid-Shore,” said County Manager Clay Stamp. “We are proud to support this group of key leaders as they move through the program.”

Shore Leadership is open to leaders, managers, and individuals in emerging leadership roles across government, business, education, and nonprofit sectors. Since 1997, the program has helped strengthen communities on Maryland’s Eastern Shore by building a network of informed, engaged leaders committed to regional collaboration. Shore Leadership is a component fund of the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more at www.shoreleadership.org.

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