Throughout her time in Michele Barr’s Principles of Human Movement Course, kinesiology alum Lindsey Ungerman went from “the back of the pack” to the “top of the class.” Ungerman said it was Barr’s patience, area expertise and kindness that transformed her semester into a “true comeback story.”
“A good teacher transmits knowledge, a great teacher influences and inspires an individual to achieve their own academic paramount,” added Ungerman.
Throughout Barr’s 31-year career at Cal State Fullerton, the kinesiology faculty member has helped students like Ungerman achieve their academic goals by implementing a teaching style that prioritizes understanding, critical thinking, active engagement and compassion.
For her unwavering commitment to student success and innovative leadership, Barr was recognized with the university’s 2026 Outstanding Lecturer Award.
In the Department of Kinesiology, Barr has taught courses that focus on such areas as anatomy, movement, measurement and statistics, and motor control. She also helped develop the curriculum for the Integrated Human Anatomy and Physiology course and lab.
“Dr. Barr is most deserving of the Outstanding Lecturer Award, and we congratulate her on this significant accomplishment,” said Celestina Barbosa-Leiker, dean of the College of Health and Human Development. “She has mentored undergraduate students in the fields of kinesiology, human services, and child and adolescent studies, and graduate students serving as teaching associates. Her mentorship extends to faculty as she has served as the lecturer in residence in the Faculty Development Center, guiding instructors as they improve their pedagogical skills.”
Her commitment to education is reflected in her students’ positive experiences. On the student opinion questionnaires, Barr’s students consistently give her high ratings, appreciating her ability to simplify complex topics and create a welcoming environment.
“Teaching is not just my job, it’s part of who I am — my design,” said Barr. “I recognize the profound impact educators can have beyond the classroom and strive to honor that responsibility every day.”
She carries that same enthusiasm and service-oriented mindset into the Titan community, and provides guidance as the faculty adviser for CSUF’s chapter of A Moment of Magic, where members dress up as superheroes to visit the Children’s Hospital of Orange County.
A researcher specializing in integrated human anatomy and physiology, Barr has published her work in high-profile publications, including Innovative Higher Education and the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.
Nationally, she has collaborated with several professional organizations, such as The Human Anatomy and Physiology Society, The American Association for Anatomy, and The Western Society for the Physical Education of College Women.
“In every respect, Michele embodies the values that the Outstanding Lecturer Award seeks to recognize,” said Erica Muñoz, lecturer in kinesiology. “Her contributions to teaching, mentorship and academic collaboration have made a lasting difference in the lives of students and colleagues alike.”