Polk State Physical Therapist Assistant student inspires at Night of Legacy gala in support of Haines City-Davenport Campus

Resilience, determination, and a deep-rooted passion have driven Katelyn Lain to excel in Polk State College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program.

Lain, 24, a graduate of Bob Jones University and fourth-generation Lakelander, returned to Polk County after a sports injury. Lain is a dedicated student and an avid athlete, running collegiate cross country and participating in intramural sports.

She shared her journey with 350 donors and supporters during the Polk State College Foundation’s third annual A Night of Legacy, the College’s premier fundraiser in support of the future Polk State Haines City-Davenport Campus.

With the support of third-time leading sponsor Citizens Bank & Trust, the event also celebrated Polk State’s 60th anniversary and longstanding reputation of excellence. Lain represented the student body, specifically that of the College’s Health Sciences and PTA Program, which boasts a 100% licensure pass rate.

A severe ACL injury led her down a path she hadn’t anticipated. The injury required surgery, and the subsequent rehabilitation process was both physically and emotionally challenging.

Through the pain, Lain felt her path changing course as she discovered a new passion.

“It’s so neat how God uses experiences in life,” Lain said. “Going through surgery, I know what it’s like to have to have help with the most basic life needs, to try to keep going through pain, and to start from ground zero.”

The subsequent physical therapy she received after surgery introduced her to Abbie Riness, an alumnus of Polk’s PTA Program.

“I attribute a lot of my success to, Abbie,” Lain said. “She really knew how to challenge me, bring positive energy even when I wasn’t feeling it that day, and make my goals her goals.”

Inspired by Riness’s care and dedication, Lain decided to follow in her footsteps and enrolled in the PTA Program. PTA is one of several Health Sciences programs that will be housed at the new campus and benefit from Central Florida’s first public higher education interdisciplinary simulation hospital.

Lain has thrived. She embraced the rigorous coursework and the hands-on clinical experience at Watson Clinic. Her professors, including Professor Stacey Robinson and Professor Regina Tino, emphasized the importance of patient advocacy and excellence in patient care. Robertson’s mantra, “motion is lotion,” and Tino’s focus on patient education resonated deeply with Lain, shaping her approach to physical therapy. “Katelyn exemplifies dedication and determination in pursuing her goals,” Tino said. “She actively seeks feedback to deepen her understanding of the material, ensuring her success. Her achievements will greatly benefit her patients and support her journey to becoming a skilled physical therapist assistant.”

Lain’s time at Polk State was marked by growth and discovery. She learned the value of perseverance, the importance of compassionate care, and the impact of mentorship. As she looks ahead, she is excited about the possibilities in the medical field.

“I don’t know if I will choose the sports medicine path or if the Lord will lead me to a different area, like spinal injuries or stroke victims,” Lain said. “The medical field is a physically sacrificing job and the people who truly care are the ones who make the difference. I’m thankful to Polk State for giving me the opportunity to pass on what I was blessed with.