Distinguished Lecture Series

Robert M. Edsel, #1 New York Times Best-Selling author of “The Monuments Men,” relaunched the Distinguished Lecture Series with resounding success.

The Monuments Men were WWII scholar-soldiers who protected and saved tens of thousands of artistic treasures from the destruction of war and theft by the Nazis. Robert Edsel shared their true story and the ongoing mission.

“I cherished the opportunity to participate in the Shepperd Leadership Institute Distinguished Lecture Series and share with my fellow Texans the inspiring story of the Monuments Men and Women,” Edsel said. “Their heroism and nobility of purpose represented the very best of our nation.”

350 – 400 people attended the event at the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center.

“I know Robert Edsel expanded minds in our community and left just about everyone inspired,” explained Shelby Landgraf, Director of Community Engagement. “His commitment to this cultural cause is second to none, as he stayed to autograph his books until the last guest exited.”

Edsel estimates billions of dollars’ worth of prized art remains missing today. Through the Monuments Men and Women Foundation, Edsel and his team continue the search and return of missing art and cultural objects to their rightful owners.

“I was touched by the depth of Robert Edsel’s presentation of the Monuments Men,” said Brenna Edwards, who attended and donated to UTPB to support the event. “We thank the Shepperd Leadership Institute for bringing such a quality speaker to the Permian Basin.”