The 2016 Madison County Living Legends Community Service Awards were presented at a recent county board meeting to the esteemed Dr. Edward Hightower of Edwardsville and Bobby Collins, Sr. of Alton.
The awards are presented annually to county residents who go above and beyond in the community. Nominations come from members of the board.
“For decades, these two gentlemen have made countless contributions to their fellow man and their communities, and have brought honor to their families and to Madison County,” Madison County Chairman Alan J. Dunstan said. “It is with respect and sincere pleasure that we present Dr. Hightower and Mr. Collins with the 2016 Living Legends Community Service Awards.”
Dr. Hightower holds multiple degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and has spent 40 years in public education, including 19 years as Edwardsville's School District superintendent.
Collins, who went to Madison High School and received a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Lewis and Clark Community College, was employed for 47 years with the Olin Corporation. He has always been active in youth organizations, including serving 10 years as baseball and basketball coach for youth leagues. He received the 100 Black Men Man of the Year Award in 1997.
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