Daniel W. Van Ness

About the Author

Daniel W. Van Ness is a pioneering scholar and advocate in the field of restorative justice, with decades of experience shaping the discourse on alternative approaches to criminal justice. As the director of the Center for Justice and Reconciliation at Prison Fellowship International, he has dedicated his career to promoting models that emphasize healing, accountability, and community involvement over punitive measures. Van Ness's work bridges academic theory and practical application, influencing policymakers, practitioners, and educators worldwide. His seminal contributions include authoring foundational texts that introduce restorative justice principles to a broad audience, fostering a global movement toward more humane and effective justice systems. Through his writings and leadership, Van Ness continues to inspire transformative change in how societies address harm and reconciliation.