2025 O&P Grant Application Period Now Open

Published in Orthotics & Prosthetics on March 25, 2025

OPGA, Össur Announce Nomination Period for O&P Grants

OPGA and Össur have announced the application period is now open for two grants available for U.S.-based O&P professionals: the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant and Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant.

Both annual grants are designed to provide funding to a current O&P resident and certified orthotist or prosthetist (or both), respectively, that will allow them to attend and participate in two non-clinical events in the O&P profession: an advocacy event and the Challenged Athletes Foundation Triathlon Challenge.

The Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant is designed to pay tribute to Russell (Rusty) Walker, a practitioner who was passionate about mentoring the next generation of O&P leaders. The Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant honors Todd Eagen, former president of OPGA, who was an important leader in the O&P profession.

“At OPGA, we are passionate about advancing the O&P profession and ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need. Our partnership with Össur reflects this dedication, as we work together to provide professional development opportunities for the next generation of O&P leaders. By honoring Russell Walker and Todd Eagen, we aim to inspire and support future residents and professionals in their journey to enhance mobility and improve lives,” said Nikki Grace, Director of OPGA. “We strongly encourage all eligible students and professionals to apply for these grants and seize this chance to grow their careers and contribute to the field."

In 2024, Matthew Jones was selected as the recipient of the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant, and Kelley Berk was selected as the recipient of the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant.

“Össur is committed to helping people world-wide improve their mobility with our innovative prosthetic solutions, which is why Össur has partnered with organizations like OPGA to come together and offer professional development opportunities for the future leaders of O&P while memorializing Russell Walker and Todd Eagen,” shared Frances Thorpe, Marketing & Communications Manager with Össur. “Össur is looking forward to supporting our next generation of residents, enhancing and elevating their future in the O&P profession.”

The application period closes April 11, 2025. A selection committee consisting of O&P professionals will review all applications, and the recipient will be notified and announced between April and May 2025.

For current O&P residents to apply for the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant, click here.

For certified orthotists or prosthetists, or both, to apply for the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant, click here.

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