Vale Ray Leos, an American academic who probably did more for higher education in Cambodia than anyone else. He died Nov.1, 2024.

Ray was a good friend, a mentor who steered me into an academic career at Pannasastra University and was primarily responsible for my last book, The Punji Trap, getting published. For more than two decades,
 
Ray was totally dedicated to his students and that so many of them have gone onto successful careers in international relations, journalism, film making and advertising -- or simply made a better life -- is a testament to his extraordinary talent, patience and ability.
 
He was no-nonsense and did not suffer fools gladly but he was kind-hearted. The calibre of this man can not be replaced. He called Cambodia home and Cambodia owes him much.

-- Luke Hunt