Matt Shinners - Interim Executive Director

By training, Matt Shinners is a scientist, writer, and student of the law. He has done research into antiretroviral medication, and worked on patent applications for a variety of inventions, including bulletproof vests, intelligent prosthetics, and other medical devices. He has ghost-written for award-winning journalists, authors, and political commentators.

His early career was focused in the education and ed-tech space, where he helped several companies develop new markets and manage their products and services. This eventually led him to a position at Kaplan, helping to manage their pre-law division.

In 2017, Matt joined Andrew Yang’s presidential campaign, focusing on operations, policy, and communications. He oversaw the research and creation of the platform, all external and internal communications, and contributed to campaign strategy and debate prep.

After the presidential campaign ended, he and his wife welcomed their first child - Kieran - into the world. His time was spent as a part-time father and part-time consultant in a variety of areas - education, public policy, journalism, and research. He also helped Andrew’s mayoral campaign design its launch platform and website, and contributed to its initial communications strategy around policy.

Matt worked with Andrew to establish the original incarnation of the Forward Party in October of 2021. He served as its Executive Director, bringing on the initial team and defining strategic direction and daily operations. He’s looking forward to continuing to serve the new Forward Party in a similar capacity, alongside the many dedicated public servants who want to fight for the heart and soul of our nation.

Matt has a BS in Biochemistry from Boston College and a JD from Harvard Law School. A long-time supporter of third parties, he recently discovered his law school admissions letter with a note from the Dean - “Come here and get the training you need to start that third party.” He’s a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, the Jersey Devils, and Team Liquid eSports. He’s an avid hiker, enjoys high-intensity interval training, and plays way too many board games. He lives in River Vale, NJ, with his wife, son, and two dogs.