Lexie Thiros

I grew up in San Diego, CA and moved to Gunnison to attend Western in 2019 after transferring from a previous university. I competed in cross country and track throughout my collegiate career where I became an All-American and helped my team to a podium finish at the 2019 NCAA National Championships, and am now assistant coaching for the cross country and track teams in addition to teaching. I graduated from Western with my B.S. in Exercise and Sport Science in 2020 and my M.S. in High-Altitude Exercise Physiology in 2022 where I researched the effect of the menstrual cycle on performance in endurance athletes. I’m very excited for this new transition to teach, share knowledge, encourage curiosity, and foster growth with my students now. Fun facts about me are that I love running, coffee, baked goods and bubbly water, and I have a pup named Ilios who wakes up every morning with an unmatched and highly sustained zest for life.

How did you discover Western?

I transferred to Western in January 2019 to compete for cross country and track and complete both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I initially discovered it from an old teammate I competed with at a prior college who transferred here as well. I very quickly realized Gunnison is a hidden gem and fell in love with the town, community, Western and of course the unbeatable outdoors.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

As a new faculty member, I’m excited to create some highlights of my career! My current academic highlight is graduating with my M.S. in High-Altitude Exercise Physiology while studying women’s health in athletics.

What most excites you about your field?

The ever growing expanse of knowledge. There is a never-ending element of curiosity and discovery in the scientific world, and new information is always arising that can be used for the benefit of all people as well as the natural world.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

The trail running and Tributary Coffee Roasters. The tight-knit and adventurous community is also a plus.

Courses Taught:

• BIOL 150
• BIOL 372
• BIOL 495