Keynote Address

Kevin Hines is an award-winning filmmaker, bestselling author, acclaimed educator and speaker, and distinguished mental health activist. For over twenty years, Kevin has staunchly advocated for suicide prevention and the importance of mental wellness, drawing wisdom from his lived experience.

At seventeen years old, Kevin was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Two years later, he attempted to take his own life by jumping off of the Golden Gate Bridge. Kevin became one of the thirty-six people to survive the fall, and the only survivor to regain full mobility. Since his miraculous survival, he has dedicated his life to advocating for mental health and emphasizing the importance of supporting those in need.

Kevin travels the globe to share his story and spread his message of hope and resilience, inspiring diverse audiences worldwide. He released his bestselling memoir Cracked Not Broken, Surviving and Thriving After a Suicide Attempt in 2013, and produced his award-winning documentary Suicide: The Ripple Effect in 2018. Kevin sits on the advisory boards of The International Bipolar Foundation, The Crisis Text Line, The Bridge Rail Foundation, and The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s Consumer Survivors Sub-Committee. He has testified before Congress and worked tirelessly to inform mental health-related policy; his efforts culminating in the construction of the suicide prevention net on the Golden Gate Bridge.

Kevin has been honored with numerous awards for his effect on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Council of Behavioral Health. In 2016, he was granted the Clifford W. Beers Award, Mental Health America’s highest award. He was named a Voice Award Fellow and Award Winner by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and has received over 70 U.S. military excellence medals as a civilian.

Kevin believes in the strength and tenacity of the human spirit and has helped countless people discover that strength within themselves. We are confident that Kevin’s story will move, motivate, and inspire you as it has for thousands across the world.