David Kener is a peacebuilding and arts education leader whose work focuses on violence prevention, nonviolence, and the power of education and the arts to create safer, more peaceful communities. He is a Global Consultant to Nonviolence Project USA, where he leads the Schools for Peace initiative, bringing students into dialogue around disarmament, restorative practices, and civic engagement. Over the course of his career, Kener has developed and led innovative school-based programs serving thousands of young people, including the Measures of Hope Initiative, which evaluates student growth through hope, resilience, and emotional well-being. He also serves as a Senior Advisor to Columbia University’s Center for Injury Science and Prevention, contributing to research and the Science of Safety framework. Through his work connecting educators, artists, public health leaders, and violence-prevention organizations, Kener is committed to transforming the conversation around violence—from fear and harm toward education, healing, agency, and the possibility of peace.