03/05/2021
During #WomensHistoryMonth, we want to recognize and honor Dr. Myrtle Hightower, a servant leader and living legend in our community.
At a vibrant, ninety-seven years young, Dr. Hightower, was born in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, March 11th, on a 200 plus acre farm, to loving parents along with four brothers & sisters. She learned early to remain positive and to be kind to others. Her father shaped this image by instilling the concept of sharing with others; an example he set by providing produce and meals to childhood neighbors consisting of multi-cultural families including a German, Indian and two American families. As a child growing up through segregation, she played with everyone; often during her 3.5 mile walk to school she waved at the all-white bus that would pass her along the way to the same location.
Her parents instilled in her discipline, structure, and the importance of combining humility with hard work. Her father taught her to never say “cannot”, thus, her vocabulary only included the word “C-A-N.” That creed would serve her well as she began her journey in life.
Dr. Hightower, graduated from high school at the tender age of 15 and enrolled in Langston University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in English. During her years at college, she became a member of her beloved sorority, Delta Sigma Theta; with over 75 years of service in the organization, she is affectionately referred to as a Delta Dear.
During her years at Langston University, she married Tollie M. Elliott; they enjoyed 24 years of marriage until his passing. Together they committed and raised her daughter, Bessie Coffer.
Dr. Hightower went on to earn a Master of Teaching degree from Northeastern State University and a PhD from the University of Cincinnati. She educated herself at the University of Hawaii, University of Tulsa, and Oklahoma University. Her credentials include a teacher’s, as well as library certification. She began her career and history of community service during segregation in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she spent over 25 years teaching high school. She held many positions in education in Oklahoma including Dean of Women at her alma mater, Langston University.
One of the highlights of her career, includes, chaperoning 75 area college students to Europe to study humanities. The group visited Italy, France, and England in a six-week span. During this trip, her students were exposed to royalty and members of parliament.
After moving to Dallas, Texas, she married John Hightower whom she built a life of community service and advocacy within Plano, Texas. Because of their resounding voice in the community and priority to educate and mentor the leaders of tomorrow, Plano Independent School District named Hightower Elementary School after them. Together they created the Hightower Foundation Scholarship for deserving students; both were committed donors to the local community Collin College Foundation. “
Dr. Hightower often said, “It doesn't matter how much money you have in the bank, what kind of car you drive
or what type of house you live in, but it does matter what kind of service you give to people. I applaud anyone
who provides scholarships. Providing scholarships make me feel good and I think they are worthwhile.”
Dr. Hightower worked in McKinney and Plano Independent School District for over 30 years as a teacher, counselor, and diversity counselor. Additionally, she established the districts first diversity committee and Martin Luther King, Jr. annual tribute service, where she served as the chairperson over 40 years. Additionally, she launched an annual black history program during her years as a member of the Plano Rotary Club; the first of its kind for the local organization. Dr. Hightower was instrumental in developing the Plano Community Forum annual MLK breakfast, now in its 37th year.
In 2020, in a packed church of more than 300 people comprised of civic and professional leaders, located in the symbolic Douglass Community, Dr. Hightower executed her “Swan Song” of black history programs. Ten years after starting this tradition at Hill Chapel C.M.E. Church, where she attended over 40 years, Dr. Hightower curated her last musical during Black History Month. The event included an “I Have a Dream Program” and a Symphony of Negro Spirituals performed by renowned baritone, Gospel Choir and Professor Emeritus.
Dr. Hightower is a charter and platinum member of the Plano North Metroplex Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, where she has served in numerous capacities including president of the organization. In earlier years, she led the main program aspects, Services to Youth and Save Our Students (SOS) to educate students of Texas. It was an extension and opportunity for her to present a platform for African American youth in Plano, during a time when programs were scarce. Additionally, she is also a charter member and former president of the Tulsa (OK) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. Dr. Hightower has served the organization for over 60 years.
Dr. Hightower has represented the City of Plano, as a committed citizen and longtime resident for decades serving on countless committees, boards, civic organizations with boundless innovation and energy.
On February 10, 2020, within the halls of Plano’s chambers she was acknowledged as “Citizen Extraordinaire” by the Plano City Council and presented with the “Key to the City”. The tribute was extended by Mayor Harry LaRosiliere to express his appreciation for supporting and encouraging his years in public service and her commitment to the city.
Dr. Hightower has been honored with numerous awards including selection as one of Plano ISD's 100 Hero’s, Plano Chamber of Commerce 2013 Citizen of the Year Award, Collin College Living Legacy. In 2005, she was honored by Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Doug Otto as a “State Hero for Children” and received recognition for her early mentor programming vision and was named a recipient of the Texas Hero for Children Award.
Additionally, she’s served as a committee member for the Plano Library Foundation, the Plano Housing Board, and the Plano Board of Adjustment, among many others. She established the Plano Community Charity, to use her counseling skills to assist with individuals in need mentally, financially, and spiritually.
Dr. Hightower, known as “Mother”, “Mom”, “Aunt Myrt”, “Dear, Dear”, and “Cousin Myrtle” to her two grandchildren, five great grandchildren and family, spends time playing bridge and serving as a “thought leader”
and “confident” to many leaders in Texas.
