OPGA, Össur Name Recipient of New Grant Program

Published in Orthotics & Prosthetics on March 08, 2022

Cristalei Polk has been selected as the recipient of the Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant Program. Orthotic Prosthetic Group of America (OPGA) and Össur announced the recipient during the Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium on March 3, 2022.   

“I can’t say enough how proud we are to partner with Össur on this new initiative,” said Todd Eagen, president of OPGA. “The Rusty Walker Grant is designed to pay tribute to a practitioner that was passionate about mentoring the next generation of O&P leaders, as well as providing annual funding to a current O&P resident that will allow them attend and participate in two different events that are outside of the clinical setting and realm but are highly important to the O&P profession and the patients it serves. Cristalei Polk is an exceptional inaugural recipient.” 

Polk is a current prosthetic resident at ProCare Prosthetics in Buford, GA. 

“Össur is honored to partner with OPGA to provide professional development opportunities for the future leaders of O&P while memorializing Rusty Walker and the imprint he left on the lives of his patients and colleagues,” said Jenna Matz, director of sales and marketing for Össur. “We look forward facilitating these resident experiences as they aid in elevating the O&P profession.” 

The Russell Walker CP, LP Emerging Leader Grant Program was developed by OPGA, a division of VGM & Associates, and Össur. This program is designed to provide annual funding to a current O&P resident to attend and participate in two different events that are outside of the clinical setting and realm but are highly important to the O&P profession and the patients it serves. 

For more information about the award, visit https://marketing.vgm.com/acton/media/10445/emerging-leader-grant-program.