[2] He graduated from Greenville High School in 1955, where he was a basketball star and involved in student government .

[4] He then continued his education at Southern Methodist University, where he received his master's degree in Political Science.

Howard's major areas of concern were wiretapping, insurance, industrial revenue bonds, and revisions in the method of financing our colleges and universities.

[4] Living in Texarkana, with three states bordering his district, Howard was also interested in strengthening interstate compacts between Texas and neighboring legislatures.

[4][7] He served on the Interstate Oil Compact Commission and was twice selected a delegate to the Southern Regional Education Board.