We are saddened to share that William (Bill) Stwalley, professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Physics, passed away on Oct. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis, surrounded by his loving family.
Bill joined the University of Connecticut in 1993 and led the department with distinction until 2011. He retired in 2016 as a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor, the University’s highest faculty honor.
A pioneer in molecular physics, Bill’s recent work focused on the production and study of ultracold molecules. Over the course of his career, he received numerous professional honors, including the Connecticut Medal of Science in 2005.
Bill’s impact on the Department of Physics and the broader scientific community was profound. His leadership, scholarship, and mentorship helped shape generations of students and researchers. He will be deeply missed.