Dr. Michael J. Warren is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, and lives out the fraternity’s core principles, Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service, through his multifaceted work as a leader, musician, educator, and servant of the community. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, on May 7th, Dr. Warren’s passion for music and commitment to service were ignited early at Rogers Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Middle School, where he studied under the late Mr. Henry L. Biggs. Under Mr. Biggs’ mentorship, he developed his musical gifts and began his spiritual journey, ultimately dedicating his life to Christ in August 2006 at Nazarene Baptist Church under Rev. Ricky V. Burgess.
Since 2007, Dr. Warren has actively contributed to the music ministry across numerous churches, including Nazarene Baptist Church, Covenant Church, and Mt. Ararat Baptist Church. His influence in worship leadership continued through academia, serving as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh and class accompanist for the Gospel Choir under Dr. James Johnson. He also directed the Chosen Generation Gospel Choir at Slippery Rock University and founded the Geneva College Gospel Choir. Today, he continues to live out brotherhood and service as the Minister of Music at Antioch Baptist Church and Director of Worship at Short North Church.
As a solo performer, Dr. Warren has traveled both nationally and internationally, including performing at an International Music Festival in Sofia, Bulgaria (2015) and becoming the first Duquesne University student to win “Campus Superstar” in 2017, outshining over 120 competitors. He served for five seasons as an anthem singer for the Pittsburgh Penguins and began a recurring role with the Pittsburgh Pirates. In 2019, he shared the stage with Leslie Odom Jr. at An Evening with the Stars, sponsored by The Pittsburgh Promise. Following that event, he released his debut solo album A Peace of Christmas, his second holiday album The Gift of Peace in December 2024, and most recently his two singles, Outnumbered & What a Wonderful World (2025).
A champion of scholarship, Dr. Warren holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Education (2017), a Master of Science in Educational Administration (2018), and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, earned in 2022 after a successful dissertation defense. His academic achievements have earned him distinction as a Project Hope Fellow, a UCEA Barbara Jackson Scholar, an AERA Clark Scholar, and recipient of the Young, Gifted and Black Award. He was also named Duquesne University’s Duke of the Decade, honoring his accomplishments as a graduate of both the Mary Pappert School of Music and the School of Education. He is currently pursuing a dual Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Social Justice at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, deepening his theological and justice, centered commitments.
In the field of education, Dr. Warren currently serves as Principal of Columbus City Preparatory School for Boys, where he leads with a vision rooted in cultivating confident young men who lead with integrity, inspire through action, and serve with compassion. He previously served as Principal of Arrowhead Elementary School in the Olentangy Local School District. In recognition of his leadership and advocacy, he was appointed as the first BIPOC artist-in-residence for the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus and serves on the boards of both the Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestra (TRYPO) and The Dream House, where he chairs efforts to empower youth through transformative opportunities.
Dr. Warren is a sought-after clinician, speaker, and advocate for equity in education. He has led music workshops and delivered keynote addresses at conferences and events including the League of Innovative Schools Conference (2020), Woodland Hills School District (2022), and the Women’s Leadership Network Room to Grow, an affiliate of Delaware County United Way (2023).
Extending his scholarship into publishing, Dr. Warren recently co-authored his first book, Beyond the Classroom: Black Male Educators Changing the Narrative, a reflection of his commitment to equity, education, and Black excellence. He is also a proud member of the Collegiate 100, an affiliate of the 100 Black Men of America, further reinforcing his belief in the power of mentorship and collective uplift.
Through every chapter of his life, as a performer, principal, pastor, and public intellectual, Dr. Michael J. Warren exemplifies Brotherhood, embodies Scholarship, and lives a life of Service. He continues to lead with purpose, faith, and passion, ensuring that every space he inhabits becomes more just, inclusive, and inspired.