Professor John Freeman Hightower has always sought to make the world a better place. The longtime Plano resident and educator is widely known for his lifelong commitment and dedication to education, youth development and community betterment. Professor Hightower grew up in Oklahoma and earned his bachelor’s degree at Huston-Tillotson College in Austin. He began his teaching career in Anton, Texas before moving to Plano in 1956, where he was hired to teach science and coach at Douglass High School. After completing his master’s degree at Texas Southern University, he was promoted to principal at Douglass. He also served as coordinator of ethnic relations and counselor in special services and was later appointed director of special services. Throughout his career, Professor Hightower touched the lives of many young people and fellow educators with his vision, his wise and thoughtful approach, his scholarly guidance, his gifted counseling and his contagious positive attitude.