Dr. Keeanna Warren Named to Indianapolis Business Journal’s 2026 “Forty Under 40” List

Dr. Keeanna Warren for IBJ’s “Forty Under 40” list

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Purdue Polytechnic High School (PPHS) proudly announces that Chief Executive Officer Dr. Keeanna Warren has been named to the Indianapolis Business Journal’s prestigious 2026 “Forty Under 40” list, recognizing rising leaders who are making significant contributions to the Indianapolis community and beyond.

Dr. Warren’s leadership has helped redefine what high school education can look like when it’s centered on student agency, real-world learning, and meaningful relationships that prepare students for success beyond graduation. At PPHS, students engage in hands-on, industry-connected experiences designed to empower them as problem-solvers and future leaders.

“What excites me most about our work is the opportunity to expand access to high-quality education while building systems that create lasting opportunity, and doing that work alongside incredible educators every day,” Dr. Warren said. “Seeing students grow in confidence, step into their potential, and achieve outcomes that change the trajectory of their lives, while watching talented teams come together around a shared belief in what is possible, is what makes this work so meaningful.”

Dr. Warren is known for her commitment to building a student-centered learning environment that values relationships and real-world application. She emphasizes that education should extend beyond traditional models, focusing on experiences that help students feel prepared for their futures and connected to their communities.

Her work has also been driven by a deep belief in access for all students. Dr. Warren has consistently advocated for ensuring every student has the tools, opportunities, and support needed to succeed in high-wage, high-demand careers.

“Working alongside Dr. Keeanna Warren, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply she cares about students and their futures,” Laura Cope, Chief of Exceptional Learners, said. “She leads with both purpose and heart, and her ability to turn bold ideas into real impact is what makes her so deserving of this recognition.”

Academic Achievement and Student Success Across PPHS

Under Dr. Warren’s leadership, PPHS has demonstrated exceptional academic growth and a strong commitment to expanding access for Indianapolis students. According to data from the Indiana Department of Education, PPHS Broad Ripple is now the second-highest-scoring public high school in Indianapolis, achieving a remarkable 10-percentage-point increase in the number of students meeting both SAT college readiness benchmarks.

PPHS Englewood also saw significant gains, ranking sixth out of 25 high schools in the region and outperforming more than 75% of schools, with a 6-percentage-point increase in SAT benchmark attainment. These results reflect the network’s commitment to pairing high expectations with personalized support to drive meaningful outcomes for students.

At PPHS Broad Ripple, more than 80 percent of students are enrolled in at least one Advanced Placement (AP) course, with access to 12 college-level offerings that prepare students for success beyond high school.

The network has also expanded transportation routes to increase access to its STEM-focused, hands-on learning model, ensuring more students across Indianapolis can benefit from a PPHS education. This progress builds on the network’s 15-year charter term awarded in 2023 by the City of Indianapolis Office of Education Innovation—the longest available under Indiana law—reflecting strong confidence in PPHS’s academic, fiscal, and operational excellence.

Excellence Beyond the Classroom

PPHS students are also excelling in extracurricular programs, demonstrating the same drive and achievement outside the classroom.

Robotics teams across the network consistently advance deep into regional and state competitions, showcasing innovation, teamwork, and technical skill.

Student-athletes continue to make their mark as well, with the girls’ basketball team earning city championship honors and wrestling and track programs regularly sending competitors to state-level competitions. These accomplishments reflect a well-rounded student experience that emphasizes leadership, perseverance, and community pride.

In addition to Dr. Warren’s recognition, PPHS celebrates Porsche Chisley, a member of the PPHS Board of Directors, who was also named as an honoree on the list. Her leadership and service have played an important role in advancing PPHS's mission and growth and in supporting broader community impact.

The IBJ “Forty Under 40” honorees will be recognized at an awards event and featured in a special edition of the publication.