Environmental Science Professor Recognized Nationally for Advancing Groundwater Research

By Drakko Harper ’26

Kevin Svitana decided to retire from teaching at the top of his career. In December 2025, the Biology and Earth Sciences professor received the Keith E. Anderson Award for outstanding contributions to groundwater research and sustainability, representing Otterbein at a national conference, before retiring at the end of the calendar year.  

The Keith E. Anderson Award is presented by the National Ground Water Association (NGWA) at its annual conference and highlights the organization’s mission to promote responsible development, management, and use of the world’s groundwater resources.  

Svitana, a geologist and hydrogeologist, is a Licensed Professional Geologist and an Ohio Voluntary Action Program (VAP) Certified Environmental Professional. He has dedicated his career to protecting one of Earth’s most essential resources. His expertise extends far beyond research or the classroom.  

Throughout his career, Svitana has evaluated water sources and studied the many contaminants that can threaten them. He shares his in-depth understanding of groundwater systems with students, professionals, and local partners, helping others understand the vital importance of clean water in everyday life. 

He has successfully taken on a variety of meaningful professional endeavors. “As a groundwater specialist, I’ve had many opportunities to work on very complex projects, everything from pollution mitigation to the evaluation of developing groundwater as a drinking water source,” he said. “In many situations, my work resulted in improvements or protection of the public. The opportunity to educate people regarding the science of groundwater has been rewarding.” 

Groundwater lies beneath our feet, sustaining communities, ecosystems, and industry. It seeps through soil and stone, refilled by rain and snow, and fills the cracks and pores of the earth. According to the National Ground Water Association, groundwater accounts for 95 percent of the world’s available freshwater, excluding polar ice caps, yet less than 27 percent of the water Americans use comes from these underground sources. Nearly half of the U.S. population depends on groundwater for drinking water, whether from public systems or private wells. Despite its importance, this resource is often underutilized and underprotected. Each data set collected or person trained brings us a step closer to ensuring that clean, sustainable water is accessible for future generations. 

Svitana cites the biggest obstacle to water conservation today as the lack of education. “People who are not hydrogeologists typically do not understand the importance of groundwater and why protecting groundwater for future generations is critical,” he explained. “Protection and sustainability are something that needs to be ingrained into the current population of students.” 

His mentorship has allowed students and collaborators to gain hands-on experience and develop as educated researchers and advocates for water sustainability. “Continuing to educate the next generation of groundwater professionals is important,” he said. “Having developed the groundwater wellfield at The Point provides the facility and resources to continue with the education efforts.” 

The groundwater research facility at The Point has become a hub for education and collaboration. Students and professionals use it to study water systems, monitor environmental changes, and explore methods for long-term water assessment and protection. 

Otterbein thanks Svitana for his lasting impact on the community and the inspiration he provides to all who share his commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future.