Dr. Margaret Anne “Peg” Langer, longtime professor in the Benerd School of Education, passed away Wednesday, June 3. She was 81. 

For 35 years, Langer, who is described by those who knew her as a lifelong learner, inspired aspiring educators to teach reading to children. Langer spent the majority of her career at University of the Pacific, where she was hired in January 1981, after spending several years leading a reading program at University of Texas, San Antonio. 

Langer ran Pacific’s Academic Skills Center, which provided instruction in reading and writing for students who wanted to increase their basic language art skills. Eventually, she transitioned to oversee the reading specialist program. During Langer’s career at the university, she enjoyed advising students and serving on the Academic Council. As an emerita professor, she was heavily involved in Emeriti Society events and gatherings at Benerd. 

In 2002, Langer was honored as a recipient of the esteemed Order of Pacific award, which is the highest honor the university gives, for her outstanding contributions to Pacific over her more than 20 years with the university. 

A former student said of Langer: "I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate your expertise, compassion, skill in teaching and modeling of everything an educator should be. You were truly a force in the education department during my time there as a student. Thank you for shaping my path into the educational field which provided me with challenges, opportunities and joy throughout my career as an English teacher." 

Upon her retirement in August 2002, Langer continued her love for teaching, learning and reading mysteries and books on the “Top Ten” list. Langer also was an active member of her church, Central Methodist, and loved the study of religion. 

Langer and her twin sister were born in Orange, New Jersey on July 1, 1938. She attended Smith College in Massachusetts for two years before transferring to Penn State where she earned her bachelor’s of science degree in educational and developmental psychology with a minor in elementary education in 1960. After graduating summa cum laude, she returned to her hometown, began teaching and was soon married with two children. She enrolled at Rutgers University for her master’s degree and was encouraged by faculty to continue on to a doctoral degree, which she successfully completed in 1974. 

Langer was loved by her family, her friends and her colleagues, and will be sorely missed by the Pacific community.