Each recipient was selected for their research presented in poster format at the 2025 American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium February 26 - March 1 in Atlanta. The Foundation Research Committee, made up of clinical and scientific reviewers judge submissions based on a specific set of criteria that includes quality and thoroughness of the research, originality, independence of the contributions, significance and timeliness of the research results and depth of understanding of the research topic.

1ST PLACE - $1,000
Tyesn Barley - Alabama State University

 Drop Foot Orthoses Intervention and Referral within Inpatient Rehabilitation: Physical Therapists’ Perspectives.

 “I am incredibly honored to receive the 1st Place Student Poster Prize. This topic has been a passion of mine even before joining the ASU program, and I am grateful to my advisors and program director for their support and encouragement as I conducted this research as the sole investigator. This achievement reaffirms that hard work and dedication truly pay off.”

2ND PLACE - $850
McKenna Poss - Baylor College of Medicine

 Bridging Disciplines: Entry-Level Competency Themes for Healthcare Professionals Collaborating with Orthotists and Prosthetists.

 “I am deeply grateful and honored to be selected as the recipient of this award and for the generosity of ABC and the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research. Research plays a critical role in advancing the profession, and it is incredible to have professional organizations like these support students in showcasing their research at AAOP’s Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium.”

3RD PLACE - $650
Ashley Wright - Eastern Michigan University

 Certified Mastectomy Fitter Provision of External Breast Prostheses for Trans and Gender Non-Conforming Population.

“I am honored to have received the 2025 ABC Student Poster Prize. It reflects my commitment to advancing the field and reinforces my drive to research.”