Regina Warren, a 2001 graduate of Arlington High School, recently shared how her experiences with Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) shaped her personal and professional life. Warren, who has served in the U.S. Army for 24 years and currently holds the rank of major, also works as a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual.
After graduating from IPS, Warren earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University in Bloomington and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University. She has received multiple military honors for leadership and service. In addition to her military career, she transitioned into financial services and is recognized for organizing community events that promote education, equity, and entrepreneurship.
Warren continues to serve as a major in the U.S. Army while leading initiatives that connect education, business, and financial empowerment. She mentors college students and new professionals entering the financial services field.
Reflecting on her time at IPS, Warren said: “IPS gave me both resilience and vision. Growing up in IPS taught me the value of hard work, community, and leadership. The diverse environment and strong educators helped me believe I could achieve beyond the classroom. That foundation carried me into military service, higher education, and ultimately into financial advising, where I now empower families and communities with financial literacy and equity planning.”
She recalled influential teachers at Arlington High School: “I’ll never forget the encouragement from teachers who pushed me to rise above challenges and see my potential. At Arlington High School, my teachers and coaches invested in me not just academically, but personally, instilling confidence and discipline that still guide me today. Marching in the Circle City Classic Parade with IPS also stands out as a proud memory of representing my school and community.”
Warren noted that skills learned at IPS have been valuable throughout her career: “IPS taught me how to adapt, lead, and serve others — skills that became essential during my 24-year career in the U.S. Army and now as a financial advisor. The values of perseverance, teamwork, and accountability that I learned at IPS shaped how I lead soldiers, mentor youth, and support families in their financial journeys.”
She emphasized specific skills gained during her education: “Leadership, discipline, and communication. IPS gave me early opportunities to step up, whether in class projects, athletics, or community events. Those same skills allowed me to lead in the Army as a Major, run large-scale operations, and now lead financial planning teams and community initiatives.”
Warren remains connected to IPS through mentoring programs: “I stay connected by mentoring youth, giving back through financial literacy workshops, and serving as a visible example of what IPS alumni can achieve. My advice to current students: believe in yourself, use every opportunity to learn, and know that your circumstances do not define your future. IPS can be the launchpad to anything you dream of if you stay focused and consistent.”
She discussed overcoming challenges during her time at IPS: “Like many students, I faced challenges with limited resources and the pressure of wanting more for my future. Those experiences taught me resilience and problem-solving. They pushed me to work harder, stay disciplined, and eventually pursue both military service and advanced education which shaped me into the leader I am today.”
Warren is involved in initiatives aimed at supporting current students: “I’ve been active in mentoring programs, financial literacy education, and youth-focused events. As a panelist regarding several community initiatives I provide young people opportunities to build confidence leadership skills and financial awareness. I believe in creating platforms that help students dream bigger and see pathways to success beyond high school.”
Indianapolis Public Schools serves over 30,000 students across central Indianapolis through its network of schools according to its official website. The district emphasizes racial equity as a core strategic priority and focuses on fostering academic excellence through tailored educational approaches driven by relationships within dynamic settings.
Aleesia Johnson currently serves as superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools according to the district’s official website.