Chicago Gospel/R&B Singer Jason Warrior to Headline ‘Songs for Scholars’ Fundraiser

Chicago gospel/R&B singer Jason Warrior is headlining Dwight D. Eisenhower High School’s annual “Songs for Scholars” fundraiser on Thursday, March 19 at the Lyric Theater, 12952 Western Ave., Blue Island.

Warrior—a 2013 graduate of Harold L. Richards High School in Oak Lawn—was a finalist on national singing competitions such as The Voice and American Idol. He was also the grand prize winner of Wind Creek Chicago Southland’s “Sing Your Way to $100K” competition in August 2025.

“I’m beyond excited,” said Warrior, who was a Top 20 finalist on Season 11 of The Voice and a Top 24 finalist on Season 19 of American Idol.

“Returning as a Richards alum while continuing to build my artistry is deeply meaningful. The arts shaped me here, and now I get to stand in that same space more confident, more seasoned, and more committed than ever—not just to performing, but to showing students that their creative dreams are possible.”

“Songs for Scholars” organizer and Eisenhower High School Counselor Greg Foertsch calls this year’s event a full circle moment. He was Warrior’s counselor at Richards High School and has stayed in touch with him over the years.

“Jason was always very charismatic,” Foertsch said. “He’s very personable, well-spoken and passionate. I remember telling him, ‘If singing is your dream, follow it.’ He puts his heart into things.”

The “Songs for Scholars” fundraiser will open with Chicago's own Liz Berg, a pop-rock guitarist who has performed with and managed bands like the Jolly Ringwalds, Saddle Shoe Sisters and the Galway Gals. Eisenhower High School Security Officer Armando "the DJ" Esparza will perform during the pre-show and interludes.

This is the fourth year of the “Songs for Scholars” fundraiser. Started by Foertsch, this year’s event aims to raise $3,000 for student college scholarships. All proceeds will go directly to the Eisenhower Scholarship Fund.

Traditionally, “Songs for Scholars” has featured indie rock musicians and other genres that Foertsch enjoys. Feedback from the Eisenhower Scholarship Committee suggested diversifying the lineup to attract new participants. This year’s fundraiser is unique because of the strong ties to Community High School District 218.

It’s also the first time that the event will be held at the Lyric Theater. “Songs for Scholars” previously took place at Blue Island Beer Company, which can no longer provide space for the Eisenhower fundraiser. The Lyric sponsored “Songs for Scholars” last year and is generously lending its space and audio equipment for this year’s event.

The goal is to sell 100 tickets. The event will also have raffles.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at https://omella.com/ewbzq or at the door. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.