The American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) board of directors announced that its contract with Teri Kuffel, JD, to serve as AOPA’s interim executive director has been extended through December 31.
Kuffel stepped into the role on January 1, following the resignation of Eve Lee, MBA, CAE, AOPA’s previous executive director. Over the past four months, Kuffel has managed AOPA’s staff and daily operations while also increasing collaboration with the sister organizations and the association’s engagement with its members.
“As AOPA president, I have had the opportunity to communicate with Teri on a regular basis. Teri’s innate understanding of the O&P profession, her proven and passionate abilities as a state and national advocate, as well as her eight years of volunteer service on AOPA’s board, collectively bring high value to the organization and its members,” said Rick Riley, AOPA president. “By extending her contract, we have created a longer runway for Teri to work with the board and staff to align our programs, services, and strategies with the evolving needs and expectations of our members. By the end of summer, AOPA will have an updated strategic plan and refreshed vision for the future.” Riley said the board intends to have a permanent leader in place by the beginning of 2026.
As an attorney and co-owner of Arise Orthotics & Prosthetics, Minnesota, and as a former AOPA board member, including as president, Kuffel is a respected leader in the O&P profession, the organization said. She has actively engaged in federal and state legislative advocacy work, including the passage of O&P licensure and So Every BODY Can Move initiatives in Minnesota.
“With her background in law, organizational management, and O&P operations, Teri will continue to be an asset to AOPA as she leads the organization through this transition period. The board is confident in her ability to maintain strong momentum and success in fulfilling AOPA’s 2025 goals and strategic objectives,” AOPA said.
