ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Board for Certification Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) is excited to announce that it will partner with organizations such as the Orthotic and Prosthetic Education and Research Foundation (OPERF) to offer $1 million in OP&P scholarships over the next five years to orthotist/prosthetist, technician and pedorthist students attending a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited education program.

ABC has expanded its existing OPERF-run Student Achievement Award into two new scholarships, an Orthotist/Prosthetist Student Achievement Scholarship and an Orthotist/Prosthetist Student Diversity Scholarship. Up to 14 $10,000 scholarships will be awarded each year to qualifying students. ABC will also launch new O&P Technician Student and Pedorthic Student Scholarships later this year.

Each of ABC’s scholarships include designated diversity scholarships created to support the academic success of racially or ethnically underrepresented student populations in the OP&P profession. ABC hopes this much needed financial support will help bring diverse and talented individuals into the profession.

Additionally, ABC has created a Student Poster Prize program in which three prizes totaling $2,500 will be awarded to outstanding student-created posters accepted for presentation at the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists’ Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium. Also, in conjunction with the Academy’s meeting, ABC funds a Resident Travel Award for one current resident (or practitioner who has recently completed their residency) to present their Directed Study report or project.

"We are thrilled to be able to support the future of OP&P through these scholarships and awards, including specific support for students from as many backgrounds and perspectives as possible. As our amazing profession continues to grow, so too does our voice and ability to make a difference,” said Brett Saunders, CPO, FAAOP, ABC President.

Additional details about these exciting scholarship opportunities, including eligibility requirements and application deadlines are now available here.