↳ The Pathfinder
OhioKidsCAN
Amber Keener
Political Director
With over five years of experience in state legislative advocacy, bipartisan coalition building, and nonprofit leadership, Keener has dedicated her career to advancing educational equity through political action and policy reform. With a diverse background in curriculum development, program implementation, and research Keener has found her passion in building relationships and developing tools for parents and communities to key to changing the world for the better.
Keener graduated from the Liberty University summa cum laude and holds a master’s degree in History. She an alumni of the Joanne Davidson Ohio Leadership Institute and received a Certificate in Public Leadership in 2022 from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at OSU. She lives in central Ohio with family.
More about Amber Keener
I aspire to be like Napoleon Bonaparte. Here's why:
I admire his combination of natural leadership and strategic vision. He was both a born leader and someone who seized opportunity. In education advocacy, I strive to lead with the same clarity, decisiveness, and ability to inspire teams to create meaningful opportunities and outcomes for students.
Why I love my job:
It is a rare opportunity when your passion and your skills align. Here at 50CAN I have felt like I have the tools to achieve the tasks set before me. It is an encouraging community of diverse thinkers who challenge me, and yet I consistently see the passion for student's success and excellence in education.
My connection to public schools:
Growing up we moved often. I remember being in a few schools for only 1 semester, and yet, those experiences were deeply impactful. Several teachers created environments which made me a lifelong learner.
What I’m bad at:
I am not great at being comfortable. I want to be part of bigger movements and create change, and for me that involves going outside my comfort zone.
The image that represents why I work at 50CAN:
“Oh, magic hour, when a child first knows she can read printed words.”
― Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
Reading is foundational. Reading not only allows for independent learning, but also for inspiration, escape, and joy. 50CAN recognizes the importance of reading and works to develop policies to support literacy.
Get to know Amber Keener's Coworkers
