The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy) recognized John T. Brinkmann, MA, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), for nearly a decade of leadership as founding chair of its Behavioral Science Society. Jacalyn Harris, MPO, CPO/L, assumed the role of chair on October 1, with Samantha Stauffer serving as vice-chair and Nate Kearns as education officer.
Brinkmann was instrumental in establishing the society in 2017 to help O&P professionals better understand how behavioral science applies to clinical practice and patient care, including communication, decision-making, patient engagement, and the relationships that are integral to providing O&P care.
“My Academy involvement began when I joined Teri Chou, PhD, and Sue Spaulding, MS, CPO, FAAOP, as part of the Academy’s Gait Scientific Society,” Brinkmann said. “Their dedication and support inspired me to take on more responsibility and showed me how the Scientific Societies help our profession move forward in specific practice areas. The idea for the Behavioral Science Society grew from an interest in developing skills that could be applied across all areas of O&P practice.”
Brinkmann, an associate professor at Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center, worked with society members to develop educational resources, contributed articles to The Academy TODAY, presented educational webinars and podcasts, and developed sessions for Academy Annual Meetings & Scientific Symposia. He has more than 30 years of experience in patient care and education.
“I was first introduced to behavioral science in the context of O&P by John Brinkmann at Northwestern,” Harris said. “He taught me, along with many others, that connection is the heart of what we do as clinicians. I am honored and excited to continue these efforts as the new chair. John’s contributions have established a strong foundation for the society, and I am grateful that he will continue to provide his support and expertise,” Harris said.
“A longtime Academy member and Fellow with Distinction, Brinkmann has given generously of his time and expertise throughout his years of involvement with the Academy,” the Academy said. “The Academy thanks Brinkmann for his vision in establishing the Behavioral Science Society, his leadership over the past nine years, and his continued commitment to the Academy and the O&P profession.”
