The American Orthotics and Prosthetics Association (AOPA) board of directors announced that Teri Kuffel, JD, will serve as interim executive director effective January 1, 2025. AOPA’s current executive director, Eve Lee, MBA, CAE, will resign effective January 22.
Kuffel will guide AOPA through the transition in leadership, working with the board of directors and staff to ensure continuity in the administration of AOPA’s programs and services. She had previously served on AOPA’s board of directors for eight years, including as 2022-2023 president. “Throughout her many years of volunteer service, Teri has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic insight, and a passion for advocacy and advancing the goals of AOPA,” the announcement said.
Kuffel is vice president and co-owner of Arise Orthotics & Prosthetics, Minnesota, and has worked on many state issues, including the passing of O&P legislation as it relates to licensure and So Every BODY Can Move. She earned her juris doctorate from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and has worked in O&P y with contract, human resources, and organizational management since 1999.
“The Board of Directors unanimously approved the appointment of Teri Kuffel to serve a six-month term as we initiate and complete a diligent search for AOPA’s next executive director,” said Rick Riley, AOPA president. “I had the privilege to serve on the board with Teri the past eight years, and she has earned the respect and appreciation of AOPA’s board, staff, and the members. Serving as immediate past-president throughout 2024, Teri has been involved in our budget and planning activities that defined AOPA’s scope of work and priorities for 2025. Her proven leadership, integrity, expertise, and passion made her an ideal and obvious candidate to temporarily step into this role.”
