A Lifetime Dedicated to the Stewardship of Water

Dr. Michael Campana
(1948 – 2024)

Professor of Hydrogeology & Water Resources Management

Michael Campana was a distinguished leader whose life's work was the dedicated stewardship of global water resources. As Professor Emeritus at both Oregon State University and the University of New Mexico, he became a source of profound inspiration, fueling a passion for hydrology and sustainable water management in countless students and colleagues.

His influential research spanned critical areas, including the complexities of transboundary groundwater, integrated water management, and the vital intersection of science and policy.

Dr. Michael E. Campana, Professor of Hydrogeology and Water Resources Management

About Michael E. Campana

A Life of Dedication and Impact

Dr. Michael Campana speaking at a hydropolitics conference about water resources management

Leadership in the American Water Resources Association (AWRA)

A long-standing and influential member of the American Water Resources Association (AWRA), Michael Campana was instrumental in advancing the science and technology of water resources. In 2011, Michael assumed the presidency of AWRA, where he actively championed the dissemination of water-related knowledge. In recognition of his exceptional service, Michael received the AWRA President's Award for Outstanding Service in 2014.

Dr. Michael Campana's professional work in hydrogeology and water resource governance

Professional Excellence

Michael Campana was a prominent hydrologist who dedicated his professional life to the scientific understanding and effective governance of water resources.

Recognition

His remarkable career was marked by numerous awards and honors acknowledging his impact. Among these, he was granted the 'International Service Award' by the U.S. Chapter of IAH.

Legacy of Dr. Michael Campana inspiring future water resource professionals

Lasting Legacy

His contributions continue to inspire future generations of water resource professionals and researchers worldwide.

John Campana: Michael's Father and Mentor

John Campana was Michael's father. John introduced Michael to the Caddy Camps and was a high school teacher in the New York City schools.

Ruth Emerson Campana

Michael's mother. She was an elementary school teacher and, along with Michael's father, supported Michael's interests and efforts.

Early Experiences: The Maplewood Caddy Camp

In his early teenage years, Michael Campana followed in his father's footsteps, embarking on a unique experience as a caddy. This world, now largely a bygone era, remained vividly clear in Michael's memory. The strong friendships he forged during those summers lasted for over 60 years. Notably, his parents also met at Maplewood.

A Lifelong Love of Music

Michael Campana harbored a deep passion for music, particularly from the late 1950s, 1960s, and parts of the 1970s. He possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of the Rock 'n Roll era, recalling songs, lyrics, groups, and their histories with remarkable detail.

Diverse Interests and Passions

Beyond his professional and musical pursuits, Michael had a wide array of other interests that enriched his life.

Ham Radio Enthusiast

He was an avid ham radio operator, often spending time on his roof to establish connections, demonstrating his fascination with communication technology.

Animal Lover

Michael had a fondness for all animals, though he held a particular, sometimes surprising, affection for lizards, snakes, and spiders, which often led to memorable family anecdotes.

Baseball Fanatic

Baseball was his favorite sport. Despite growing up with the Yankees, he developed a love for the game at a more intimate level, frequently attending minor league stadiums.

Outdoors and Travel

He embraced the western outdoors, enjoying activities like hiking and skiing. His curiosity also extended globally; he loved seeing new places, immersing himself in different cultures, and meeting people. His extensive travels took him to every continent except Antarctica.

Devotion to Family and Friends

Above all, Michael cherished his family and friends, maintaining a vast network of relationships built on mutual affection and loyalty.

Publications

Contributions to Water Science

Dr. Campana's publication on National Water-Quality Assessment Program (NAWQA)

Preparing for the Third Decade of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program

Published 2012

The initial twenty years of the U.S. Geological Survey's National Water Quality Assessment (NAWQA) Program successfully evaluated water-quality conditions across the U.S., tracked changes over time, and identified how both natural elements and human activities influenced these conditions. As planning begins for the Program's third decade (Cycle 3), guided by the Science Plan, several challenges are emerging. These include ensuring NAWQA retains its national scope despite decreasing resources, finding a balance between new initiatives and ongoing long-term studies, and maintaining program focus amidst various competing demands from stakeholders.

Additional Publication Resources at Oregon State University College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences

Achievements

A Distinguished Career of Excellence

Academic and Professional Career

Dr. Michael Campana's distinguished career reflects a profound commitment to hydrogeology and water resource management across several prominent institutions and international endeavors.

Oregon State University (2006–2024)

At Oregon State University, Dr. Campana made significant contributions within the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences as a professor. Demonstrating his leadership skills, he also served as the Director of the Institute for Water and Watersheds from 2006 to 2008.

University of New Mexico (1989–2006)

Prior to his tenure at Oregon State, Dr. Campana left an indelible mark at the University of New Mexico. Here, he was instrumental in revitalizing and directing the Master of Water Resources Program.

Dr. Michael Campana's distinguished academic career at Oregon State University and University of New Mexico

Dr. Michael Campana's prestigious awards including Warren A. Hall Medal and AWRA honors

Awards and Honors

Dr. Michael Campana's profound impact on water resources management and hydrogeology was recognized through numerous prestigious awards and leadership roles throughout his career.

Warren A. Hall Medal (2025)

In a testament to his lasting legacy, Dr. Campana was posthumously awarded the Warren A. Hall Medal by the Universities Council on Water Resources.

Michael E. Campana Emeritus Award (2022)

Further cementing his influence, the American Water Resources Association (AWRA) established the Michael E. Campana Emeritus Award in 2022.

Dr. Campana's legacy lives on through the Mary Frances and Michael Campana Fund at Oregon State University, which continues to support scholarships and educational opportunities for future water resource professionals.

Career and Contributions

A Legacy of Academic Excellence and Global Impact

Dr. Michael Campana's distinguished career was marked by significant academic appointments, foundational education, and influential international involvement, all dedicated to advancing hydrogeology and water resource management.

Oregon State University (OSU)

At Oregon State University, Dr. Campana made substantial contributions as a Professor of Hydrogeology and Water Resources Management. He also demonstrated his leadership by directing the Institute for Water and Watersheds. Upon his retirement, he was honored as a Professor Emeritus in the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

University of New Mexico (UNM)

Before his time at OSU, Dr. Campana held a prominent role at the University of New Mexico, where he was appointed to the prestigious Albert and Mary Jane Black Chair of Hydrogeology. He also played a pivotal role in directing the Water Resources Program. He is remembered there as a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences.

Education

Dr. Campana's strong academic foundation began with a B.S. in Geology from the College of William and Mary in 1970. He then further specialized in hydrology, earning his M.S. in 1973 and Ph.D. in 1975 from the University of Arizona.

International Engagement

Dr. Campana's influence extended globally through his active participation in key international organizations. He was a dedicated member of both the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) and the International Water Resources Association (IWRA), consistently contributing to vital discussions on global water policy.

Gallery

Memories in Images and Videos

Videos

Click to Watch on YouTube

Pictures

Dr. Michael Campana and team working on water delivery solution for Honduran village

Michael and his team of local volunteers and students and professors from the US worked to develop the best solution for delivering water to a Honduran village.

Dr. Michael Campana conducting field work in rural mountainous Honduras

Very often Michael and his team worked in difficult and uncomfortable settings in rural, mountainous Honduras.

Dr. Michael Campana with sisters Ann and Ellen Campana, family photo

Michael with his two beloved sisters, Ann and Ellen. Ann, in whose memory the Foundation was named, was the director of travel at the National Geographic Society and was killed in the 9/11 attacks.

Dr. Michael Campana with lifelong friends from Maplewood Caddy Camp days at baseball game

One of the most important things in Michael's life was his friendships. This is a photo of his friends from the Caddy Camp days gathered to watch a baseball game. They kept in touch for over 60 years.

Dr. Michael Campana(1948 – 2024)