Dr. Daniel B. Oerther, the John A. and Susan Mathes Chair of civil, architectural and environmental engineering, has earned the Superior Achievement Award from the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) for his work to improve water quality in the Ixcan region of Guatemala. The award will be presented April 14 at the academy’s annual Excellence in Environmental Engineering and Science celebration at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

The award recognizes Oerther’s work to improve water quality in the Ixcan region of Guatemala through a collaboration with student researchers, the public health service of Guatemala and a non-governmental organization based in Guatemala. Oerther was selected for the quality of his integrated approach and the observation that his solution contributed to both social good as well as the economic advancement of the villagers he sought to serve.