Fueling the Future: Meet the Next Generation of O&P Leaders

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 52nd Academy Annual Meeting in Nashville, guest host Fanny Schultea, MS, MSEd, CPO, LP, FAAOP(D), executive director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research, shines a spotlight on the inaugural 2025 Fuel the Future Scholars.

Featuring Mariam El-Khatib, Kirsten Lucy, Annie Kramer, Elizabeth Ibata-Irens, and Jon Avery Welch, the conversation centers on their journeys into the profession, where they’re training, and the impact they hope to make—from pediatric and scoliosis-focused care to advancing research, health equity, and evidence-based practice.

The scholars reflect on how the program is helping remove financial barriers while building confidence, connection, and a stronger pipeline of future professionals. They also share candid perspectives on challenges facing the field, including access to care, clinic culture, preventative care gaps, and the need for more robust clinical evidence. The episode closes with gratitude for mentors and donors, along with thoughtful advice on staying curious, embracing feedback, and committing to lifelong learning.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.