BOSTON – Wade L. Barghausen, CPO, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association National Assembly here. Each year, the board of directors of the American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the O&P field.
Joseph Cestaro, CPO, a previous recipient of the award, presented Barghausen with the honor.
Wade L. Barghausen
“I first met Wade 4 decades ago, in 1967. Wade was a very innovative guy. He always tried to stay ahead of the technology curve. He became ABC president in 1976, and we then saw improvements in the area of facility accreditation and movement in the area of advanced educational requirements. He was elected to the presidency of AOPA in 1983 and 1984.
“He was a busy man, giving himself for his professions that he so dearly loved. He was a real force in our profession for many years, and I can think of no one more deserving of this professional recognition.”
AOPA president Tom DiBello, CO, FAAOP, said, “Individuals like you and Joe … left us a great legacy of commitment and volunteer leadership that we all try to emulate today. You were the guys we looked up to.”
Barghausen said he was surprised by the honor.
“I’ve been retired for some time, so I was really floored. It’s very humbling. I couldn’t have done it without a great staff back in the office, and a great organization that allows you to leave and do those things that are necessary to advance the field and the profession and the business side of it. It’s been a very rewarding career.”
