"Professor Karin A. Pfeiffer is literally an institution on the MSU campus. She is a towering figure in the field of kinesiology, internationally renowned for her research accomplishments, a beloved teacher, has mentored numerous graduates of our programs and has served the university at all levels over many years.”
This quote, from Department of Kinesiology Chair Panteleimon “Paddy” Ekkekakis, is a shining example of who Karin Pfeiffer is.
A select listing of quantitative data tells you more — a two-time MSU graduate; a National Academy of Kinesiology Fellow; an author or coauthor on more than 250 research publications; more than 21,000 citations, including about 9,000 in the last five years (Google Scholar); a leader on more than $18 million in funded grants; and a mentor to dozens.
The facts about Pfeiffer, including her leadership role as director of the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports and being named an MSU Red Cedar Distinguished Professor, are too many to list in this publication.
Yet, four recent awards and positions deserve recognition.
It just so happens that all four came to fruition in 2025.
In March, Pfeiffer was announced as the president-elect for the American College of Sports Medicine. Founded in 1954, ACSM is a leading professional organization in the fields of sports medicine, exercise science and health promotion. Pfeiffer has been a part of the organization for nearly 30 years, including as vice president from 2020–2022. When she assumes the presidency in 2026, she will be the third-ever Spartan to hold the title.
In April and May, Pfeiffer earned two accolades from MSU.
- She was one of 10 faculty members to earn the William J. Beal Outstanding Faculty Award. The Beal Award recognizes scholars for their consistent record of outstanding scholarship, teaching and community engagement.
- Pfeiffer also received the Senior Career Research Award from the College of Education, the highest internal faculty award offered by the college, which honors professors for their research impact and career contributions.
In July, Pfeiffer joined the Board of Directors for Girls on the Run International. Pfeiffer has long been involved with the organization and served on the mid-Michigan chapter’s Board of Trustees from 2018–2025. In this role, Pfeiffer will support development, operations and fundraising for the global non-profit, which offers empowering after-school programming for girls.
“[Pfeiffer’s] scholarly contributions have propelled significant advancements in the field, while her teaching and mentorship have profoundly shaped the development of her students,” wrote Assistant Professor Matt Harkey. “Moreover, her dedicated service has enriched both the university and the broader community. Through her work, she has not only driven progress in the field of Kinesiology, but also enhanced the MSU College of Education’s reputation as a center for impactful, world-class research.”