Veteran Indian American community leader Andrew Pappachen has been conferred the 2025 Good Samaritan Award by the Global Malayalee Christian Forum, recognising more than three decades of unwavering service, leadership, and commitment to the Indian diaspora. The prestigious honour was presented during a solemn ceremony held at the Ramada Inn in Kochi on January 17, 2026, drawing together community leaders, academics, and well-wishers from India and abroad.
The award celebrates Pappachen’s lifelong dedication to public service, education, literature, and the unification of Malayalees across generations and geographies. Widely regarded as a bridge between the homeland and the diaspora, Pappachen’s contributions have shaped community institutions and inspired countless individuals over the years.
Honoured by Alma Mater and Mentors
In a separate and deeply personal event, Andrew Pappachen was also felicitated by his classmates and professors from CMS College, where he completed his early academic journey. The gathering, marked by warmth and nostalgia, brought together mentors, peers, and friends who witnessed his formative years and later followed his remarkable global journey.
Renowned writer Prof. S. Sivadas, classmate Rev. Dr. K. M. George, and respected faculty members including Dr. George Cherian, Dr. Joseph Cherian, Dr. Mary Kuruvilla, Prof. Parvathy, Thomas Job, and Prof. John honoured Pappachen with a ceremonial shawl, symbolising their admiration and respect.
“This recognition from my teachers and classmates is the greatest honour of my life,” Pappachen said, expressing humility and gratitude. “It fills me with pride to be remembered not only for professional achievements but also for service to the community.”
An Academic and Professional Journey Spanning Continents
Andrew Pappachen’s journey began in Kerala, where he earned a master’s degree in chemistry from Kerala University. He migrated to the United States in 1973, pursuing advanced education that laid the foundation for a distinguished career in environmental governance.
He went on to earn a master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology, followed by doctoral-level studies and specialised Mini-Masters qualifications in Water Pollution and Air Pollution. He also obtained a degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University, underscoring his interdisciplinary expertise.
Professionally, Pappachen dedicated 47 years to public service in the United States, working for the City of Newark, New Jersey, from 1974 to 2018. During this period, he held several senior roles, including Chief Engineer, Director of Operations at the Newark Watershed Conservation and Development Corporation, and Director of Public Works.
Between 2012 and 2019, he served as Environmental Commissioner in Montville Township, where he continues to reside. Currently, he works as an environmental consultant and is certified by the State of New Jersey as a water distribution system and water treatment operator. Since 2000, he has also served as an adjunct professor, teaching courses on water pollution, wastewater treatment, and environmental regulations.
Author, Thought Leader, and Cultural Voice
Beyond engineering and governance, Andrew Pappachen is a prolific author whose literary works span both English and Malayalam. His English titles include Love With The Ghost, A Journey Alone, Rays of Light From the Darkness of a Prison Cell, Zero to Infinity, and Story of Achu. These books explore themes of resilience, introspection, and human experience.
His Malayalam works, published by Prabath Book House in Thiruvananthapuram, include Thalamurakalethedi, Theerdhadanathintte Kadha, Eruttil Ninnu Velichathilaekku, and Sophi, reflecting his deep cultural roots and commitment to preserving Malayalam literature.
A Pillar of the Global Malayalee Movement
Andrew Pappachen’s name is closely associated with global Malayalee institutional building. He is the founder, former Global President, and chairman of the World Malayalee Council, and has held leadership roles with the Kerala Center New York, Asian American Heritage Council, Asia Society, and the Festival of People in New Jersey.
His service has been recognised by numerous organisations, including the Asian American Political Coalition, Federation of Indian Associations, Staten Island Malayalee Association, Kerala Cultural Association, and the YMCA.
Driven by a vision to unite Malayalees worldwide, Pappachen also founded the World Malayalee Voice, a platform dedicated to communication, cultural preservation, and intergenerational dialogue within the diaspora.
A Life Rooted in Family and Values
Born to Korah and Lucy Andrews of Kollad, Kerala, Andrew Pappachen credits his family for grounding his values of service and humility. His wife, Somini, is from Vadavathoor, Kottayam. Their daughter, Simmy, is a healthcare management executive, while their son, Kevin, manages fraud investigations at a New Jersey-based bank. Kevin’s wife, Grace, and their daughter, Anna, complete the family.
A Legacy of Service
Andrew Pappachen’s life stands as a powerful testament to what sustained service, visionary leadership, and cultural commitment can achieve across borders. As global Malayalees celebrated his achievements in Kochi, the 2025 Good Samaritan Award recognised not just an individual, but a lifetime devoted to strengthening community, nurturing knowledge, and inspiring future generations.
