ACC Faculty Spotlight: Alexis Gaines
Let's get to know how Alexis (Lexi) Gaines, ACC Physical Therapy Assistant faculty member, Moves Mountains at ACC!
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born and raised in Tennessee, I cultivated a passion for helping others throughout her diverse career in physical therapy. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Memphis, a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from North Georgia College and State University, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Montana. My academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and continuous learning.
Since beginning my career as a physical therapist in 2005, I have gained extensive experience across various settings, including outpatient clinics, acute care hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health services. This breadth of experience has allowed her to develop a versatile skill set and a deep understanding of patient care in different contexts.
Having lived in New Hampshire, Georgia, and now Colorado, I have a unique perspective shaped by her experiences in diverse communities. In 2020, I transitioned into teaching, where I love to share my knowledge and expertise with aspiring healthcare professionals.
What do you teach?
I am faculty in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program where I teach Anatomical Kinesiology, Professional Communications, and PTA Seminar. I also the Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education where I coordinate and facilitate the clinical internships for all the students throughout the program.
How long have you been at ACC?
Since 2020
How long have you been teaching?
Since 2020
What is your favorite thing to teach?
While I thoroughly enjoy teaching all my classes, there's a special place in my heart for sharing stories from my experiences as a physical therapist. These narratives not only bring the curriculum to life but also provide students with a glimpse into the realities of healthcare—both the rewarding moments and the unpredictable ones.
I find that sharing stories about patient interactions helps students connect theoretical concepts with real-world scenarios, making learning more engaging and memorable. Plus, the occasional humorous or unexpected tale from my years in practice adds a touch of levity to the classroom, reminding everyone that even in the most challenging moments, there's often a lesson to be learned and a story to be told.
By weaving these stories into my teaching, I aim to inspire students to approach their future careers with empathy, creativity, and a healthy dose of humor—essential qualities for thriving in the dynamic world of healthcare.
Why did you choose teaching?
After 15 years in clinical practice, I stepped into teaching with curiosity and an open mind—unsure if it would resonate with me but eager to embrace a new challenge. What I discovered was a calling I hadn’t anticipated.
The moment I knew teaching was for me? Walking into the classroom on the first day and seeing students brimming with excitement, ready to dive into a field they’re passionate about but still unaware of the transformative journey ahead. Fast-forward five semesters, and the growth is extraordinary: they’ve evolved into confident, skilled professionals who grasp the nuance of patient care and the complexities of our field.
What fuels me most is knowing I’ve played a role in expanding their horizons. Physical therapy isn’t just a job—it’s a career with endless possibilities, from specialized clinical roles to leadership, education, or advocacy. Helping students uncover paths they didn’t know existed and watching them build futures that are both financially stable and deeply fulfilling, is incredibly rewarding. Teaching isn’t just about sharing knowledge; it’s about empowering the next generation to redefine what’s possible in healthcare.
Why did you choose ACC?
My connection to ACC began during my time as a physical therapist at a skilled nursing facility, where I served as a clinical instructor for an ACC PTA program student. From day one, I was struck by her exceptional clinical knowledge, curiosity, and drive to grow—qualities that stood out even among the many students I’ve mentored from programs across the country.
That experience sparked my interest in ACC’s PTA program. It became clear that the curriculum here doesn’t just teach skills; it cultivates confident, compassionate, and critically thinking professionals. The student’s readiness to excel in real-world settings spoke volumes about the program’s rigor and the faculty’s dedication to student success.
When the opportunity arose to join ACC, I knew it was a chance to contribute to an institution that prioritizes excellence in both education and patient care. Being part of a team that shapes such capable future PTAs—while upholding the values of lifelong learning and mentorship—is truly an honor.
Are you a part of any clubs / organizations / committees at ACC or outside of ACC? What are they and why did you choose them?
As the PTA Club Advisor, I curate immersive learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom for students passionate about physical therapy. At the heart of the club is our Guest Speaker Circuit, where we connect students with subject matter experts—from specialized clinicians to innovative researchers and industry leaders. These sessions not only expose students to cutting-edge practices and niche areas of PT but also spark inspiration by showcasing diverse career trajectories.
By inviting clinical experts to share their journeys, students gain practical insights into real-world challenges, emerging trends, and the art of patient-centered care. These interactions bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and hands-on practice, empowering students to envision their own paths in this dynamic field. Whether it’s a panel on pediatric PT, a workshop on entrepreneurial opportunities, or a discussion about advocacy in healthcare, the club fosters curiosity, networking, and professional growth.
My goal is simple: to equip students with the tools, connections, and confidence they need to thrive—not just as PTAs, but as lifelong learners and leaders in healthcare.
What is your mountain (ultimate goal)?
My ultimate goal is to champion the cause of accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that empowers students to achieve economic stability and prosperity. I envision a future where every individual has the opportunity to pursue their educational aspirations without financial barriers, thereby creating a pathway to a livable wage and a fulfilling career. By advocating for policies and programs that support this vision, I aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and contribute to a more equitable society where education serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.
What's your favorite ACC memory so far?
While I don’t have one singular favorite memory, what fills me with the most joy is visiting students during their clinical internships. These work-based learning experiences—spanning three rotations at PT clinics, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and other healthcare settings—are where theory transforms into practice.
Stepping into the clinic and seeing students in action is magical. Their faces light up as they apply classroom knowledge to real-world patient care. You can almost see their confidence blossoming: the way they interact with patients, problem-solve challenges, and collaborate with clinical teams reveals a newfound assurance. Their curiosity deepens, too—they ask sharper questions, seek feedback eagerly, and lean into the complexities of the profession.
For me, these moments are profoundly rewarding. Witnessing their growth from tentative learners to capable, compassionate practitioners reminds me why I teach. It’s not just about educating future PTs; it’s about nurturing their passion and watching them thrive in the field they’ve worked so hard to join. These visits don’t just make my heart happy—they reaffirm the power of hands-on learning and the incredible potential of our students.
Tell us a fun fact about you / Something about you that might surprise people.
I was a whitewater rafting guide on the Ocoee River (Class III/IV whitewater) in Eastern Tennessee for one summer.
Top 5 Vacation Spots
Safari in South Africa
Royal Mile in Edinburg, Scotland
Turks and Caicos
Florence, Italy
Maui, Hawaii
What is your advice to future and current students at ACC?
As you embark on your journey, I encourage you to embrace change with an open heart and mind. The world is constantly evolving, and those who adapt with curiosity and resilience are best positioned to thrive. While it's natural to feel uncertain or uncomfortable with change, remember that it often brings new opportunities and growth.
Those who resist change may find themselves stuck in a cycle of frustration, missing out on the chance to explore new horizons and discover their full potential. Instead, view change as a catalyst for learning, innovation, and personal evolution. By embracing it, you'll not only navigate challenges more effectively but also cultivate a mindset that is flexible, creative, and ready for whatever life brings.
In the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, this ability to adapt will serve you well. It will help you stay ahead of the curve, innovate solutions, and provide compassionate care that meets the evolving needs of your patients. So, be bold, be curious, and always be open to the possibilities that change presents.
Do you know a student, staff member, faculty member, instructor, or alumni that you would like to nominate for an ACC Spotlight? jessica [dot] horning [at] arapahoe [dot] edu (Let us know!) Or if you would like to be spotlighted on the ACC blog, complete our Spotlight form.