Loyola University Maryland Athletics

"In a relatively short coaching career, David has established himself in the business and comes highly recommended," Horst said at the time of his hiring. "He has the passion and understanding of the sport to help build Loyola into a strong competitor among the Patriot League. His personality on and off the track will build a strong team unit and sense of camaraderie."

Hightower joins the Loyola staff from Yale University, where he served as the volunteer assistant coach for the men's and women's track and field programs. During his time, Hightower coached the sprinters and hurdlers, assisting in the coaching of an ECAC runner-up in the pentathlon. While at Yale, he gained first-hand experience working with Ivy League students on and off the track.

Before coaching, Hightower captained the Rider University Broncos during his junior and senior seasons. A seven-time Intercollegiate Amateur Athletic Association of America (IC4A) qualifier, he holds the school's record in the 110m hurdles with a time of 13.93. Hightower placed among the top-10, three-years in a row, in the hurdles at the IC4A meet.

Hightower graduated in 2013 with a degree in public relations and a minor in English.