Ray Vernon
Founder
1948 - 2022

It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of Ray Vernon, founder of Accent Global Learning.

For over three decades, Ray was more than an innovative leader in the field of international higher education, he was a changemaker. His conviction for the value of a global education created not only one of the most reputable education abroad organizations in Europe, but one of the most unique in its mission: to meet each partner’s institutional objectives and to respond to the ever-changing needs of U.S. students with experiential, impactful, and university-branded education abroad programs. Since Accent’s founding, the lives of more than 70,000 students have been touched by Ray’s vision and passion.

Each of these programs and partnerships are built on long-standing relationships and profound trust. Ray treasured his close relationships with colleagues in the field of international education.

Ray’s endless energy and curiosity inspired students, faculty, administrators, and Accent colleagues to expand horizons, take risks, and to continually explore new opportunities in education. His kindness and humanity touched everyone he met. He cared deeply for the personal well-being and professional development of each member of the Accent team.

Ray’s deep understanding of and appreciation for the value of a global education continues to inspire all of us at Accent to fulfill his mission. To honor Ray’s life-long mission, we have created the Founder’s Prize.

The Founder’s Prize in Entrepreneurship

The Founder’s Prize in Entrepreneurship aims to support and motivate future changemakers whose academic and professional interests will contribute to innovative and sustainable solutions to complex global problems through entrepreneurship. The $5,000 prize will be awarded annually to a student participating in the University of California Education Abroad Program Business & Entrepreneurship Program in London. The Prize is in collaboration with Accent Global Learning, UCEAP and Hildegarde Group.

The Founder’s Prize is designed to continue Ray’s legacy in international education and is a fitting recognition and celebration of his achievements. Those of you who wish to contribute to Ray’s legacy may do so through the following link.

To help support the Founder’s Prize and help create a lasting legacy for Ray, donate online.