James P. Malley, Jr., professor emeritus of civil and environmental engineering at the University of New Hampshire, has been honored with the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA). The award recognizes drinking water professionals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and dedication to the water works field throughout their careers.
“I have been truly blessed with the opportunity to serve the water family around the globe,” says Malley. "I attribute the vast majority of my lifetime achievements to my UNH graduate and undergraduate students.”
Malley, an internationally recognized leader in water treatment technologies, joined UNH in 1988 and spent nearly four decades teaching, mentoring, and advancing solutions to some of the world’s most pressing water challenges. His pioneering research introduced ultraviolet (UV) disinfection into U.S. water treatment as a critical tool for controlling pathogens such as Cryptosporidium.
During his tenure at UNH, Malley published more than 350 technical papers, taught 160 courses, and mentored 60 graduate students while inspiring thousands of engineering undergraduates. Earlier this year, he transitioned from his role as professor to emeritus professor and adjunct research professor of civil and environmental engineering.
Beyond campus, Malley has been a driving force in professional organizations. He serves as editor-in-chief of UV Solutions, the official publication of the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA), where he was a founding chair and past president. He has also led committees for the American Water Works Association and currently contributes to NEWWA as a peer review editor and active member of several committees
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Malley established the NEWWA Maud L. Malley Professional Work for Water Training Scholarship earlier this year in honor of his mother. The inaugural scholarship will be awarded in December. Malley received the award on September 23 during NEWWA’s 144th Annual Conference in Rockport, Maine.
