Lee Nordin

With great sadness, Guiding Eyes for the Blind announces the passing of our colleague, mentor and friend, Lee Nordin.

Lee’s career at Guiding Eyes began in 1999.  As Director of Canine Development, she was the driving force behind Guiding Eyes’ STEP program, the relationship-based approach to training our puppies.  The program has prompted global change in the way guide dogs are raised and trained – largely the result of Lee’s passion, dedication and vision.  She also volunteered her skills and expertise as the raiser of seven Guiding Eyes pups; four are currently working as guide dogs and another will graduate in 2014.

Lee has touched the lives of so many – her family and friends, staff members, volunteers and graduates, and of course, the countless puppies for whom she provided positive starts to their journeys in life.  She will be deeply missed.

To honor Lee’s legacy, memorial contributions can be made in her name to Guiding Eyes’ Canine Development Center- One STEP Ahead Building Fund.  A celebration of her life will be held next year in Watertown, CT.