The Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research and the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) announced the recipients of the 2023 ABC Student Poster Prizes.
Prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place at $1,000, $850, and $650, respectively. Each recipient was selected for their research presented in poster format at the 2023 American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists’ Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium in March.
Northwestern University students Kristen John, Madison Nastruz, and Ross Kelly were awarded first place for their topic, “The Effects of Prosthesis Mechanical Properties on Balance in Unilateral Transtibial Prosthesis Users: A Literature Review.” Their faculty advisor was Matthew Major, PhD.
California State University Dominguez Hills students Shelby Rose Shelman, Christa Berry, Riley Greer, and Ellyson Martens earned second place for their presentation, “Gross Motor Development in Children with Lower Limb Differences.” Their advisor was Julie Werner, PhD.
Third Place went to Jessica Townsend and Gracie Rink from Eastern Michigan University for “Functional Priorities of Caregivers and their Children with Neuromuscular Disorders: A Literature Review.” Their faculty advisor was Rebecca Spragg, MSPO, CPO.
The Foundation Research Committee judging criteria included the quality and thoroughness of the research, originality and independence of the contributions, significance and timeliness of the research results, and the depth of understanding of the research topic.
“The Foundation is grateful to ABC for its sponsorship of these prizes and partnership in investing in future O&P practitioners,” said Donald Katz, MHA, CO/L, FAAOP, co-chair of the O&P Foundation board of directors. “The Foundation board of directors would also like to extend its appreciation to all those who served as clinical and scientific reviewers for this year’s submissions. Their guidance and support ensure that all applicants receive constructive feedback to help them grow further in their research interest endeavors.”
