MoFI Co-founder, Dr. Heath Schechinger, Receives Two Prestigious Awards in Recognition of Advocacy for Modern Families

We are thrilled to announce that our Co-Founder, Dr. Heath Schechinger, has been formally recognized with two significant awards from the American Psychological Association (APA) Division 44 Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity. Dr. Schechinger’s visionary work in advocating for relationship and family structure diversity has earned them the Distinguished Professional Contribution Award and the Distinguished Service Award.

The Distinguished Professional Contribution Award recognizes recipients’ exceptional contributions to advancing the interests, goals, and purposes of Division 44 while the Distinguished Service Award celebrates extraordinary service and commitment to Division 44. 

Dr. Schechinger's journey in advocating for modern families with Division 44 began in 2014 with his co-authorship with Dr. Amy Moors of an article calling for a task force dedicated to consensual non-monogamy (CNM) within the APA. This led to the formation of the CNM Task Force in 2018, which evolved into a permanent Committee in 2021 which he and Dr. Moors Co-Chair. Under their leadership, the committee has driven crucial projects, contributing to significant policy changes and broadening the scope of academic inquiry. His work here and with the Modern Family Institute and the Polyamory Legal Advocacy Coalition has furthered education and legal support for modern relationships and families.

Dr. Schechinger has also been a catalyst for legislative advancements, including the successful passage of the nations first plural domestic partnership and non-discrimination ordinances in Massachusetts and California that extend legal protections to individuals in polyamorous and non-nuclear family structures. In addition to his advocacy, Heath has co-authored APA’s Guideline 9 for Psychological Practice with Sexual Minority Persons and numerous peer-reviewed publications, enriching the field of psychology with his research and insights. His media engagements and public commentary have also played a pivotal role in challenging misconceptions and promoting understanding of diverse relationship structures.

We congratulate Heath on these well-deserved awards and celebrate his ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive society where all families and relationships can thrive!