The Austin College Black History Month "Living Legend Series" is a heartfelt tribute to someone who has profoundly impacted their community through dedication, passion, and service. This series highlights the life and achievements of local heroes—people whose contributions have shaped neighborhoods, inspired others, and left a lasting legacy in the area. From educators and mentors to entrepreneurs and volunteers, this annual series showcases their remarkable journey, values, and the positive influence they continue to have. By celebrating their story, the "Living Legend Series" emphasizes the power of everyday individuals to create extraordinary change and inspire future generations.
Guess is a retired educator, coach, and community leader with a remarkable career spanning over 30 years. A graduate of Bells High School (Class of 1980), where he served as Student Council President and Senior Class Orator, Guess initially signed to play football at North Texas State University before transferring to Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where he earned a B.S. in Education.
As a teacher and coach for 27 years, Guess earned numerous accolades, including being named to Who’s Who Among American High School Teachers. His coaching career boasts three football state championship finals appearances, a state-record-setting 800-meter relay as head track coach at Paris High School, and the distinction of coaching over 50 athletes who went on to collegiate athletics, with six advancing to the National Football League.
Guess retired from education in 2015 and has since continued to serve his community. A former Denison City Councilman, he currently serves on the boards of 10 nonprofit organizations in Grayson County, including founding Hometown Heroes, which honors local military veterans.
In addition to his public service and charitable work, Guess is also a talented actor, having appeared in over a dozen movies, commercials, and more than 25 television episodes.
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, pre-professional foundations, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 44 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 50 percent of students identifying as persons of color. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and an expert faculty of more than 100 educators allow a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. Related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA), Austin College cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. The College, founded in 1849, is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.
