Marvin Langer

Dr. Marvin Langer graduated from the College of Optometry in Toronto in 1947 and has been engaged in full spectrum practice since 1948. In 1951 he became a faculty member at the College of Optometry, and later the School of Optometry at the University of Waterloo, a position he held until 1972. During this time, he completed his Master of Science degree from Indiana University in 1966. While a professor, he taught topics covering scientific method and statistics, geometrical optics, occupational vision, vision and learning disabilities and optometry.

In addition to teaching, Marvin has author or co-authored over 100 papers, monographs and submissions to governments and has had research interests in areas such as: studies in occupational vision, public health optometry, school vision, learning disabilities, accommodation and convergence, contact lenses and myopia.

Dr. Langer has held a number of important positions over the years including: membership on of the Interdisciplinary Committee (optometry, ophthalmology and opticianry) initiated by the Ontario Council of Health, 1968 to 1970; President of the College of Optometrists, 1975 to 1978; Research Director of the Optometric Institute of Toronto, 1984 to 1985; a Founding Director and Chair of the Health Professions Council of Ontario; a Founding Director of the Vision Institute of Toronto; and Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Marvin also served on the Council of the College of Optometrists for many years during which he chaired the appraisal, legislation and discipline committees. In addition, he was a member of the Board of the Ontario Association of Optometrists and chaired numerous committees including: paediatric vision, industrial vision, fees and economics and legislation.

In recognition of his tireless service and contribution to the profession, Dr. Langer has received a number of accolades including; the Distinguished Service Award from the Ontario Association of Optometrists in 1981, the Service Award from the Vision Institute in 1981, the E.J. Cobean Award for outstanding contribution to optometry in Ontario from the Ontario Association of Optometrists in 1985, the Canadian Association of Optometrist’s President’s Award in 1991. In 2003 the Ontario Association of Optometrists established the Marvin Langer Fund for University of Waterloo student in personal financial distress.

Marvin also takes time out of his busy schedule to give back to his community as a founding member of the North York Lodge of Bnai Brith, spokesperson Board member of the Joyce Parkway Public School – Home and School Association and Consultant to the Canadian Association of Children with Learning Disabilities.