Dr. Guo-Brennan is the Director of the MPA program and an Associate Professor of public administration in the Division of Political Science at Troy University in Alabama.  He served in leadership roles in education, non-profit, and governmental organizations for over 20 years before beginning his career in academics.  His work has taken him to cities throughout the United States, Canada, and China.

Michael began his career as an educator in K-12 public schools in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky.  From there, he transitioned into serving in non-profit organization where his leadership abilities were quickly recognized and he took on administrative responsibilities, leading and managing work teams and programs.  Following completion of his academic studies towards his Ph.D., Dr. Guo-Brennan took on responsibilities as an executive in local government, serving as City Manager, in the Midwest and New England.

Much of his work in government included networking with state and national leaders to promote local government initiatives.  He worked closely with Councils of Governments as well as the Maine State legislature, frequently providing testimony as well as assistance with legislation that impacted local communities.

In higher education, Dr. Guo-Brennan began his career in 2014.  Since then, he has worked as an educator and research at universities in Canada and the United States as well as guest lecturing in China.  Since 2015, Michael has worked at Troy University, teaching face-to-face, on-line, and in hybrid classroom settings. 

He has also continued to establish a strong research agenda.  The overriding focus of his research centers around civic engagement and public policy issues including education policy, immigration, crisis management, and global competency in public administration.

Dr. Guo-Brennan has a Bachelors’ Degree in Music History from Illinois State University, a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Louisville and a Ph.D. in Urban and Public Affairs from the University of Louisville.