Elizabeth Hightower

Classroom

Hightower graduated magna cum laude this past December, earning her bachelor’s degree in anthropology. She is now pursuing her master’s degree in sport management at the University of Florida.

Hightower has been named a 2021 NFCA Scholar-Athlete, SEC First Year Academic Honor Roll honoree, and has been named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll twice.

She will also be contributing to an independent study that focuses on analyzing the diets of inhabitants that lived in St. Augustine, Fla. during the 17th century.

Character

Hightower is a selfless leader and always exudes a team-first mentality. She sets an example through her efforts on the field, in the classroom, and with her work in the community.

Community

The Monticello, Fla. native is passionate about giving back to the community, especially veterans, as she has created and spearheaded a philanthropy called Flags for Our Fallen. The groups members collect flags that have been flown in public but are no longer in condition to serve as a symbol of the United States and are dedicated to honoring military families instead.

In addition, Hightower volunteers in preparing and serving homeless veterans meals during Christmas time. She also spends spare time in the offseason helping run softball practices with a local travel ball team back home and is actively involved locally with the Food4Kids program.

Competition

Hightower, a prolific right-handed pitcher, earned her first All-America honors last season. She was also named an All-SEC second team selection and earned multiple SEC Pitcher of the Week awards.

Hightower threw her first no-hitter against USF in the Gainesville Regional Championship game—only the fourth in program history during tournament play. She finished the regional with 13.1 innings pitched and no hits or runs allowed.

She currently sits fifth all-time in Gator history in opponent batting average with a stifling .191.