Empowering the Future of O&P: Apply Now for the 2026 O&P Professional Development Grants

Published in Orthotics & Prosthetics on February 18, 2026

For many orthotic and prosthetic (O&P) professionals, the path to becoming a confident leader, advocate, and community partner extends far beyond the clinical setting. It’s shaped by the experiences that help them grow, connect, and understand the broader impact of their work.

OPGA has officially opened the application period for two meaningful professional development grants: the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant and the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant. These grants, sponsored by Össur and presented by OPGA, are designed to help O&P residents and certified clinicians strengthen leadership skills, deepen advocacy engagement, and build lasting connections with the patients and communities they serve.

Honoring Two Leaders Who Helped Shape the O&P Profession

The heart of these grants lies in the legacy of two extraordinary individuals:

The Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant

Created in honor of Russell “Rusty” Walker, this grant celebrates his passion for mentoring the next generation of O&P professionals. He particularly poured his knowledge and expertise into his company's resident program. By supporting students in hands-on patient care experiences, his knowledge and love for the profession spread to others entering the field.

The Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant

This grant recognizes Todd Eagen, former president of OPGA, whose advocacy efforts helped elevate the profession nationwide. His work strengthened O&P’s voice in policy, regulation, and patient access, making this grant especially meaningful for those who want to carry that advocacy forward.

Why These Grants Matter for the O&P Community

Every year, O&P professionals demonstrate incredible dedication—whether they’re fighting for patient access, educating local lawmakers, or supporting adaptive athletes. But opportunities to grow beyond the clinic can be costly or hard to reach.

“At OPGA, our mission is to support and empower the individuals who drive the O&P profession forward,” said Jeff Kessler, Director of OPGA. “These grants celebrate two remarkable leaders while helping today’s residents and certified practitioners strengthen their leadership capacity, expand their advocacy experience, and ultimately improve the lives of the patients they serve.”

Celebrating the 2025 Recipients

Last year, two professionals stood out for their drive and vision. Avery-Claire Littleton received the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant, and Nicole Bakovich was named the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant recipient.

Avery-Claire Littleton received the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant in 2025.

Nicole Bakovich was named the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant recipient in 2025.

How to Apply for the 2026 Grants

O&P residents and certified orthotists and/or prosthetists, submit your application here.

Application Deadline: March 6, 2026
Selection Process: Applications will be reviewed by a committee of O&P professionals.
Notification & Announcement: Recipients will be notified and publicly announced at the end of March 2026.

Both applications and additional details can be found here.

Advancing Leadership, Advocacy, and Community Connection

Whether you’re looking to deepen your leadership skills, expand your advocacy efforts, or better understand the communities you serve, these grants provide an invaluable stepping stone. They honor the past, enrich the present, and help shape the future of the O&P profession.

If making a difference is part of your professional mission, we encourage you to apply.

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