About the OPGA & Össur O&P Grants
Strong advocacy and leadership are essential to advancing patient access, professional recognition, and the long-term sustainability of orthotics and prosthetics. Through these grants, OPGA and Össur support O&P emerging leaders who want to expand their impact beyond patient care and help shape the future of the O&P profession.
Both grants support orthotics and prosthetics professional development by helping recipients:
- Foster O&P professional development, leadership, and community engagement
- Build O&P advocacy and leadership skills beyond the clinical setting
- Gain firsthand insight into legislative and policy issues impacting orthotics and prosthetics care
- Engage directly with patients, adaptive athletes, and limb loss or limb difference communities
- Expand professional networks within the O&P industry through national engagement
- Strengthen the collective voice of the orthotics and prosthetics profession by improving representation, access, and advocacy nationwide
The Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant and the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant honor the lasting legacies of Russell “Rusty” Walker and Todd Eagen—two champions of advocacy, mentorship, and advancing the O&P profession.
Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant: Open to O&P Residents
Teaching was one of Russell "Rusty" Walker’s strongest suits, so much that he intended to become a teacher. In pursuit of a teaching career, he discovered the O&P profession and in doing so, found a career that suited him immensely. O&P allowed him to use his love of teaching and mentoring in a different manner through developing residents. He particularly poured his knowledge and expertise into his company's resident program. Through supporting students in hands-on patient care experiences, his knowledge and love for the profession spread to others entering the field.
In August 2019, cancer caused Rusty to become an amputee after he elected to a below-the-knee amputation. Rusty was diagnosed with clear cell sarcoma, which originated in a tumor in his foot. His coworker and previous resident developed his prosthesis and supported him through his 16-month healing journey. He adored the fact that one of his own residents helped him walk again. On Dec. 26, 2020, Rusty passed away. He will always be remembered in the hearts and minds of his family, friends, and patients. To honor his impact on the O&P profession and its residents, Össur and OPGA are privileged to provide the Russell Walker Emerging Leader Grant.
Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant: Open to Certified Orthotists & Prosthetists
Anyone who knew Todd Eagen knew that he was passionate about everything he did. Todd was especially passionate about fighting for legislative change that would help further the O&P profession. Todd was heavily involved with several of our profession’s advocacy champions, including NAAOP and AOPA. Whether it was serving on boards for NAAOP and AOPA, lending his time and focus to O&P, or simply providing advice, Todd was always there to help in any way he could.
Todd was the President of OPGA for many years until his untimely passing on June 4, 2022. He will always be remembered for his fierce commitment to helping others, his tireless efforts to make the O&P profession the best it can be, and above all, the friendships that he made along the way. Össur and OPGA are privileged to provide the Todd Eagen Advocacy in Action Memorial Grant.