The Des Lee Fine Arts Education Collaborative honors the lives and legacies of Douglas L. Turpin, E. Desmond Lee Endowed Professor of Music Education Emeritus, and Robert Nordman, E. Desmond Lee Endowed Professor of Music Education Emeritus—two extraordinary educators whose leadership, vision, and commitment shaped and sustained this work across decades.

Professor Turpin was the visionary founder of the Des Lee Collaborative for Music Education, imagining and establishing a model that connected the University of Missouri–St. Louis, local schools, and arts organizations in a meaningful and lasting partnership. As the first E. Desmond Lee Endowed Professor of Music Education, he set a powerful foundation rooted in access, excellence, and collaboration. Doug believed deeply that every child deserves the opportunity to experience high-quality music education, and he dedicated his life to making that belief a reality. His leadership was expansive and forward-thinking, and his influence continues to resonate in the Collaborative’s purpose and reach.

Building upon that foundation, Professor Nordman brought a steady and thoughtful vision that expanded the Collaborative’s work beyond music to embrace all the fine arts. Through his leadership, the Collaborative grew in scope and impact, strengthening its partnerships and broadening its service to the region. Bob was known for his intellectual rigor, his disciplined approach to teaching and leadership, and his unwavering commitment to high standards in arts education. He ensured that the Collaborative not only endured, but evolved—remaining responsive, relevant, and inclusive of the full spectrum of the artistic disciplines.

Together, Doug Turpin and Bob Nordman represent a remarkable continuum of leadership. One imagined and built; the other expanded and sustained. Both were deeply committed to the idea that strong partnerships between higher education, schools, and the arts community can transform lives and strengthen our region.

We remember Doug for his vision, warmth, and boundless enthusiasm, and Bob for his integrity, thoughtfulness, and steady guidance. Their combined legacies live on in the countless students, educators, and collaborating partners who continue this work today.

Services:

A visitation for Professor Turpin will be held on April 17, 2026, from 4:00–8:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service on April 18, 2026, at 8:00 a.m., both at Kutis Funeral Home (Affton Chapel) in St. Louis, with burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Park. (Legacy)

At this time, services for Professor Nordman are understood to be private and held with family, reflecting a more personal remembrance of his life.