Thupten Tendhar

Thupten Tendhar is a Lecturer at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), specializing in nonviolence pedagogy and Buddhist studies. He holds a PhD in Education from the University of Rhode Island (URI) and a Geshe (doctorate) in Buddhist studies from Drepung Loseling Monastic University. As the director of the International Nonviolence Summer Institute, he teaches globally and coordinates training initiatives focused on inner peace and nonviolence. He is also a certified Level 3 Trainer in Kingian Nonviolence through URI's Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies.

His research emphasizes compassion, mindfulness, wellbeing, and nonviolence education. He has taught Tibetan Buddhism since 2012 and leads the core seminar in nonviolence theory for URI’s MA in International Relations program. Tendhar has authored two poetry books: Peace: Rhythm of My Heart and Love: Beating My Heart.

No scientific awards were explicitly mentioned. He advises through his training programs and leads projects at URI’s Center, though specific grants or student advisement details are not provided. His work is closely tied to interdisciplinary efforts in peacebuilding and spiritual education.