Kirsten Lucy
Background
Kirsten is a student at Baylor College of Medicine and current orthotic and prosthetic resident. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa earning her degree in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Rhetoric and Persuasion. She is serving as president of the Baylor O&P class of 2026 and completing the Baylor School of Health Professions Pathway in Community Health.
Kirsten is also completing research on Barriers and Facilitators to Research Participation under Dr. Graci Finco through the Limb Loss & Difference Lab. Her clinical residency rotations include the Denver VA, Hanger Clinics in Kansas City and Phoenix, Shriners Children’s – Chicago, and ForMotion Clinic – Denver. Kirsten is passionate about providing exceptional, equitable, and innovative prosthetic and orthotic care centered on helping individuals reach their goals.
Why did you apply?
I applied for the Fuel the Future of Orthotics and Prosthetics scholarship to reduce the financial burden of higher education and allow me to focus my attention on pursuing opportunities to expand my professional knowledge and network.
I was also motivated by the scholarship benefits including conference registration, speaking opportunities, and professional connections, which I felt would be invaluable at the start of my O&P journey.
How did the funding help you meet your goals?
Through Baylor’s residency program, I have the opportunity to learn from a variety of clinics across the country. Reducing the financial burden of tuition has allowed freedom to travel and learn from clinicians at diverse locations.
The scholarship opportunity also offered registration for professional conferences where I have discovered many new connections and opportunities. I would not be able to pursue the opportunities I have without support from receiving the Fuel the Future scholarship.
How did the funding impact your career?
Connections made through receiving the Fuel the Future scholarship have already proven to be impactful within the first year of receiving the award. Coverage of registration for the 2026 Academy meeting allowed me to attend and learn from inspiring leaders in the field. These opportunities pushed me to continue pursuing my passions within the field outside of daily clinical care. Receiving this award also increased my confidence as a future clinician and in the impact I can make as an individual in such a meaningful field. I am incredibly grateful for the continued support from the O&P Foundation.
What did the funding mean to you personally?
Receiving the Fuel the Future scholarship has undoubtedly shaped my path as a new clinician. The support for my education and continued opportunities to learn and grow has been amazing.
This award has empowered me to push myself to reach for greater goals and to be the best clinician I can for future patients. Thank you again to the O&P Foundation for supporting students, residents, and professionals in our field.
