top of page

VERNON WALL

one better world white circle logo - reads "one better world"

Author | Lecturer | Consultant

Vernon Wall: Social Justice Education Speaker

CONSIDER THESE    QUESTIONS

2

WHAT DO ALL PEOPLE DESERVE?

WHAT DOES NO ONE DESERVE?

ABOUT

VERNON

Vernon Wall on stage speaking.

Author | Lecturer | Consultant

Our speaker asks us to ponder two questions: “What do all people deserve?”  “What does no one deserve?”  A popular thought leader in higher education, non-profit and organization communities, Vernon has accumulated over 35 years of professional student affairs experience at Iowa State University, the University of Georgia, UNC – Charlotte and UNC Chapel Hill.  He has experience in Greek Life, new student orientation, student activities and leadership development. Vernon currently lives in Washington, DC where he serves as Chief of Staff for LeaderShape, Inc.  Vernon is also President & Founder of One Better World, LLC – a consulting firm specializing in assisting campuses and organization to live the values of Inclusive Excellence.  In the Spring of 1998 and the Spring of 2024, Vernon sailed with Semester at Sea as a member of the Student Life team accompanying 500+ students on a voyage to 10 countries in four months.  Vernon is also a past President of ACPA – College Student Educators International. 

 

With degrees from North Carolina State University and Indiana University, Vernon is the consummate scholar-practitioner and is one of the founding faculty members of the Social Justice Training Institute.  Vernon has written numerous articles and co-edited two books on topics that encourage universities and organizations to embrace initiatives that foster communities where everyone can succeed.  Everyone.  Vernon believes in a world where all people are able to be the best version of themselves.  This passion is grounded in a quote from his late grandmother: “May the work I’ve done speak for me.” 

KEYNOTES & WORKSHOPS

These Are Samples of Program Descriptions.

All programs are developed to meet the organizational and developmental needs of the audience. Programs are available in keynote, workshop or virtual format.

We've Been Here Before

Engaging in Conversations on Equity & Community During Our Current Political Climate & Beyond

Professional Staff Session

Can be keynote or program session

(in-person & virtual format available)

Legislation.  Executive Orders.  Dear Colleague Letters.  Guidance for the Guidance.  Oh my!  It’s all coming so fast and furious.  How do we continue to have conversations on inclusive communities in today's political context?  How do we stay true to our commitment to supporting EVERYONE as we navigate this critical time in history?  Please join me as I share learnings and concepts that I have found helpful as we continue to engage in the very important work that is making sure everyone in our communities feel valued and respected.  EVERYONE.

one better world gray circle logo - reads "one better world"

One

Better World

 

________________________

Student Session

Can be keynote or program session

(in-person & virtual format available)

 

 

Privilege. Identity. Community.  Belonging.  The journey begins with you. Come learn how your identities influence all you do and how you can use this knowledge to become agents of change on campus and in our world. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere!”

one better world gray circle logo - reads "one better world"

The 10 Myths

of Social Justice

 

________________________

Professional Staff Session

Can be keynote or program session

(in-person & virtual format available)

 

The term "social justice" is being used (and misused) on college and university campuses more and more these days. What exactly is social justice? What is a socially just community? What are the characteristics of a campus community committed to equity, belonging, community & justice? In this program, the 10 myths of social justice will be shared as well as resources that will assist campuses in creating a welcoming environment for all.   "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere!”

one better world gray circle logo - reads "one better world"

With Liberty and

Justice for ALL

 

________________________

Professional Staff Session

Can be keynote or program session

(in-person & virtual format available)

The term “social justice” is being used (and misused) on college and university campuses more and more these days. What are the characteristics of a campus community committed to social justice? Are we doing things in the name of social justice that are not congruent with the true spirit of equity and inclusion? In this program, twelve personal reflections on the current state of equity, community and belonging in higher education will be shared as well as an opportunity to assess your campus' successes and challenges in providing a campus environment that is welcoming to all.

one better world gray circle logo - reads "one better world"

Lead

With Style

 

________________________

Student Session

Can be keynote or program session

(in-person & virtual format available)

 

As leaders we interact with different styles and personalities daily…some we connect with, some we clash with. I believe that our ability to work effectively in groups can be enhanced if we take time to not only develop our styles, but also to learn what makes our team members “tick”. Hold on to your seats! You’re about to find out which song best describes your personality: “Control,” “Wild Thing,” “We Are Family”

or “Working 9 to 5.”

one better world gray circle logo - reads "one better world"

LET'S
GET
SOCIAL

FOLLOW VERNON

BOOKING FEES

Listed below are some numbers that will give you a sense of booking fees for Vernon Wall, if you have questions and for exact fees you are encouraged to send a message and get in touch.

Minimum speaker's fee is $6000.00 per day. This includes keynote speeches, program sessions and training. 
Facilitating sessions with selected consultants is also an option. Please contact for a list of these colleagues.
 
Diversity Symposium
10:52
Keynote Speaker V Wall
21:26
#ACPA14 Pecha Kucha: Vernon Wall, "Social Justice - Passion or Rhetoric?"
07:24
Vernon Wall
54:47
VIDEOS AND PODCASTS

VIDEOS

PODCASTS

&

WHAT PEOPLE SAY
ABOUT VERNON

“Humor and expertise go along way when giving a keynote speech. Vernon Wall definitely has both of these key qualities. We were looking for a keynoter with energy and passion to address diversity and multicultural issues on campuses today – Vernon did not let us down. Next time we will have to make sure that we get a bigger room for the ‘follow up’ session!”

Assistant Dean of Students / Assistant Director of Housing

Arkansas Tech University

"Vernon's programs are interactive and informative. He kept our minds and bodies awake."

Associate Director of Residence Life

Emporia State University (KS)

"Please, Please, Please continue your work in challenging others. I don't believe you realize how impactful you are!"

An Undergraduate Student Participant

Grinnell College (IA)

"Simply put: Vernon is amazing. He excels at helping students find where they fit within the world when it comes to oppression and privilege and teaches concepts that students remember long after he has left campus. We have invited Vernon two times over the past four years because our third year RAs who were on the training committee insisted that newer RAs had to experience his message. We truly do have "One Better World" with Vernon in it!"

Coordinator of Residence Education

Northern Arizona University

"I have admired your abilities from afar. After seeing you in action, I understand why! Your ability to challenge is remarkable."

University Professional Staff Member

Southern Illinois University

"We had Vernon facilitate a Diversity Retreat for us and it went over extremely well. The students really related to his presentation style. He was extremely easy to work with and very flexible. We would have him back in a heart beat!"

Assistant Dean of Students & Vaughn Center Director

The University of Tampa

"We have been doing diversity training for years with our RA staff, but no one hit the mark with them as well as Vernon did in our day of training last fall. Vernon's style draws staff in, makes them think, and more than anything motivates them to bring his message into their daily work as RAs and human beings. What more could you ask!"

Associate Director of Residence Life

University of New Hampshire

"I felt that he was able to present the issue of diversity in a non-threatening way, which is different from most diversity exercises I have been a part of."

An Undergraduate Student Participant

Davidson College (NC)

"Vernon's approach and sense of humor helped him quickly get connected with our students and put them at ease. Vernon has the ability to make students feel comfortable sharing about themselves, learning about others while challenging them on social justice issues. Our RA's raved about Vernon after his visit and his session was one of the most highly rated amongst all sessions in our two week training. I would not hesitate to bring Vernon back to work with our community again."

Assistant Director for Leadership Development

Fordham University (NY)

"Above all other things, Vernon is real…and everyone in his audience recognizes that quality immediately. Consequently, when Vernon asks people to accompany him on a journey through arduous territory, they are willing to take the risk and go with him. Along the way, they explore what's in their heads as well as their hearts, work hard, and have some fun. In the end, they commit to making things different in their own spheres…which is really where it all starts."

Associate Director of Residence Life

Iowa State University

"Many of the students commented on how impressed they were with Vernon's values, integrity, and diverse background. He was able to tie many of the leadership pieces regarding style and personality together many of them were mulling over in their heads as well as exemplify the importance of leadership styles and humor in our daily lives."

Leadership Coordinator for Student Activities

Purdue University

​"Vernon engages the audience immediately with his use of storytelling, interactive activities, and positive messages. Vernon's enthusiasm and passion for what he does is evident. Our students are still talking about his program 6 months later."

Assistant Director of Residence Life

State University of West Georgia

"How do you do it? You motivated my students to make a change. I can honestly say we're moving toward the appreciation and celebration of human differences."

UNC Assistant Dean of Students

UNC - Greensboro

"After having heard Vernon speak when I was a graduate student, I have carried his "One Better World" message with me on a daily basis -- and this is a message I wanted to share with new first year students in our community. We have a very diverse campus with students from all over the world and Vernon's talk of uniting students across lines of difference set a wonderful tone for our first year. Our students appreciated his sincerity...his ability to localize his content in a Canadian framework."

University Director of Residence Life

University of Toronto at Mississauga

"We were pleased to have you bring your unique style to our campus. We hope to be able to have you return as we continue to move ahead with the challenge of student leadership"

Director of Student Activities and Events

Dekalb College

"Excellent! One of the best and most inspiring seminars I have ever attended, if not the best."

An Undergraduate Student Participant

Fordham University (NY)

"Vernon is a dynamic presenter that has the ability to captivate and motivate audiences! He was able to take our group and get them excited and communicating about subjects that have typically been taboo to discuss openly. Vernon approaches each topic with such honest enthusiasm it is no wonder why we asked him back for a second time!"

Coordinator of Residence Life and Greek Advisor

Kennesaw State University (GA)

"Vernon's dynamic style and presence create an environment where open and honest dialogue can take place. He engages his audience and delivers his message in such a manner that the learning just sneaks up on you! It has been one year since he visited this campus, and the students are still talking about the sessions they had with him, and more importantly, still applying what they learned."

Director of Multicultural Affairs

Rollins College (FL)

"The session was fun, lively, and interactive. We really talked about some of the issues we are facing on campus."

An Undergraduate Student Participant

The University of California, Los Angeles

Vernon was great here! The RAs talked about him all year.

Associate Director of Residence Life

University of Massachusetts - Amherst

"Vernon came to Western Michigan University to speak about diversity issues to the Greek Community on a campus that consists of less than a 10% minority population. Those in attendance were able to participate in a conversation, not a lecture, regarding a subject that can be quite fragile. Vernon did a tremendous job keeping everyone comfortable and in touch with the message."

Alpha Tau Omega Chapter President

Western Michigan University

Add Your Review For Vernon

If you're a student, staff, or faculty member who has participated or worked with Vernon - leave your review below. After all, word of mouth is the best advertising! 

PHOTOS TOP

PHOTOS & HEADSHOTS

Scroll Through and Click To Enlarge or Save A Photo.

Photos of Vernon should not be used without permission and approval. 

AROUND THE GLOBE

Take a Look at Just Some Of the Places Vernon Has Been.

Many of the locations below have been a part of Vernon's journey more than once and it is through these destinations that he has impacted hundreds of campuses, and thousands of students and staff.

Location
Organization
Alabama
Alabama State RHA Conference
Alabama
Auburn University
Arizona
Arizona State University
Arizona
Northern Arizona University
Arizona
University of Arizona
Arkansas
University of Arkansas
California
Cal Poly Pomona
California
California State University, Channel Islands
California
California State University, Long Beach
California
California State University, Monterey Bay
California
Chapman University
California
Loyola Marymount University
California
Occidental College
California
San Jose State University
California
Santa Clara University
California
Sonoma University
California
University of California, Davis
California
University of California, Los Angeles
California
University of California, Santa Barbara
California
University of San Francisco
Canada
University of Toronto at Mississauga
Colorado
Colorado Mountain College
Colorado
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Colorado
Norwich University
Colorado
Regis University
Colorado
University of Colorado, Boulder
Colorado
University of Colorado, Denver
Connecticut
Connecticut College
Connecticut
Eastern Connecticut State University
Connecticut
Nanqatuck Community College
Connecticut
Regional Technical Community College
Connecticut
Southern Connecticut State University
Deleware
University of Delaware
District of Columbia
American University
District of Columbia
George Washington University
District of Columbia
Human Rights Campaign
Florida
Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida
Florida RA Conference
Florida
Florida State University
Florida
Nova College
Florida
Rollins College
Florida
Stetson University
Florida
University of Miami
Florida
University of Tampa
Georgia
Augusta University
Georgia
Brewton Parker College
Georgia
Brunswick College
Georgia
Clayton State University
Georgia
Dalton College
Georgia
Dekalb College
Georgia
Emory University
Georgia
Gainesville College
Georgia
Georgia College
Georgia
Georgia College Personnel Association 
Georgia
Georgia Southern University
Georgia
Georgia Southwestern University
Georgia
Georgia State University
Georgia
Oglethorpe University
Georgia
Oxford College of Emory University
Georgia
University of Georgia
Georgia
West Georgia College
Idaho
University of Idaho
Illinois
DePaul University
Illinois
Illinois State University
Illinois
Loyola University Chicago
Illinois
McKendree University
Illinois
Northwestern University
Illinois
Southern Illinois University
Illinois
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville
Illinois
University of Illinois
Illinois
Western Illinois University
Indiana
Ball State University
Indiana
DePauw University
Indiana
Indiana State University
Indiana
Indiana University
Indiana
Indiana University Alumni Association
Indiana
Purdue University
Indiana
University of Indianapolis
Iowa
Central College
Iowa
Cornell College
Iowa
Grand View University
Iowa
Grinnell College
Iowa
Iowa State University 
Iowa
Wartburg College
Kansas
Kansas State University
Kansas
Metropolitan Community College
Kansas
Mid-American Greek Council Association
Kansas
UMR-ACUHO
Kansas
University of Kansas
Maryland
Goucher College
Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Maryland
Maryland College Personnel Association
Maryland
Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University
Maryland
University of Maryland
Maryland
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Massachusetts
Bentley University
Massachusetts
Boston Latin School
Massachusetts
Bunker Hill Community College
Massachusetts
Clark University
Massachusetts
Massachusetts College of Arts
Massachusetts
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Massachusetts
Northeastern University
Massachusetts
Simmons College
Massachusetts
Suffolk University
Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Michiigan
Grand Valley State University
Michiigan
Michigan State University
Michiigan
University of Michigan
Michiigan
Western Michigan University
Minnesota
Carleton College
Minnesota
Hamline University
Minnesota
Macalester College
Minnesota
Minnesota College Personnel Association
Minnesota
Minnesota State Colleges & Universities
Minnesota
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Minnesota
University of Minnesota
Minnesota
University of St Thomas
Mississippi
University of Mississippi
Missouri
Central Missouri State University
Missouri
Northwest Missouri State University
Missouri
St Louis University
Missouri
Truman State University
Missouri
University of Central Missouri
Missouri
University of Missouri
Missouri
Washington University
Missouri
Westminster College
Nebraska
Creighton University
Nebraska
Nebraska Wesleyan University
Nebraska
Scottsbluff Public Schools
Nebraska
University of Nebraska
New Hampshire
Campus Compact of New Hampshire
New Hampshire
University of New Hampshire
New Jersey
Rowan University
New Jersey
Rutgers University
New York
Alfred University
New York
Colgate University
New York
Fordham University
New York
Ithaca College
New York
Marist College 
New York
New York University
New York
New York University - Polytechnic School of Engineering
New York
Queens College Student Services Union
North Carolina
Appalachian State University
North Carolina
Davidson College
North Carolina
East Carolina University
North Carolina
Elon University
North Carolina
Elon University 
North Carolina
Fayetteville State University
North Carolina
North Carolina Housing Officers
North Carolina
North Carolina State University
North Carolina
Triad RA Conference
North Carolina
University of North Carolina, Asheville
North Carolina
University of North Carolina, Greensboro
North Carolina
University of North Carolina, Pembroke
North Carolina
University of North Carolina, Wilmington
North Carolina
Wake Forest University
North Carolina
Wingate University
Ohio
Bowling Green State University
Ohio
Case Western Reserve University
Ohio
Miami University of Ohio
Ohio
Ohio State University
Ohio
Ohio University
Ohio
University of Cincinnati
Ohio
University of Dayton
Ohio
Wright State University
Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma
Oregon
Lewis and Clark College
Oregon
Oregon State University
Oregon
Portland State University
Oregon
University of Oregon
Other / Conferences
ACPA - College Student Educators International
Other / Conferences
AIM-HO Conference (University Housing)
Other / Conferences
Association for Non-Traditional Students in Higher Ed (ANTSHE) Regional Conference
Other / Conferences
Association for University College Counselors and Centers Directors (AUCCCD)
Other / Conferences
Association of College Unions International
Other / Conferences
Association of Conference and Events Directors
Other / Conferences
Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors
Other / Conferences
BACCHUS/GAMMA Convention
Other / Conferences
Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
Other / Conferences
LeaderShape, INC (co-lead facilitator)
Other / Conferences
MACUHO RA Conference, Keynote
Other / Conferences
MGCA (Mid-American Greek Council Association)
Other / Conferences
Midwest Meeting of Graduate Students in Student Personnel
Other / Conferences
NACA National Convention, Consultant in Residence
Other / Conferences
NACA Upper Midwest Regional Conference
Other / Conferences
NACURH Consultant in Residence
Other / Conferences
NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education
Other / Conferences
NASPA Region IV West Conference
Other / Conferences
National Conference on Student Services
Other / Conferences
National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Other / Conferences
NODA (orientation directors)
Other / Conferences
Planned Parenthood Southeast
Other / Conferences
SACSA (southern association of college student affairs)
Other / Conferences
Semester at Sea / Institute for Shipboard Education
Other / Conferences
WACUHO Annual Conference
Other / Conferences
White Privilege Conference
Pennsylvania
Allegheny College
Pennsylvania
Bucknell University
Pennsylvania
Keystone College

SCROLL IN THE TABLE

TOP SEND A MESSAGE

SEND A MESSAGE

YOUR MESSAGE HAS BEEN SENT

Return To Top Of Page

VERNON WALL

one better world white circle logo - reads "one better world"

Author | Lecturer | Consultant

Vernon Wall: Social Justice Educator

© 2025 Design By GS. 

Vernon Wall: Social Justice Educator

© 2021 Vernon Wall. Design By GS. 

bottom of page