At the 2025 Dean’s Roundtable event on May 16th, hosted by the College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University, two exceptional leaders were honored for their transformative work in inclusive education. Anita D. Lang '02, Program Director, and Robert Pettit, Program Manager of Aggie ACHIEVE, were celebrated for their enduring commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This recognition was generously sponsored by Patrick '71 and Dr. Sue Mahoney '94.
Since 1991, the Dean’s Roundtable has recognized over 600 individuals whose work has positively impacted lives across Texas. This year, the spotlight shined on Lang and Pettit—whose leadership has elevated the mission and reach of the Aggie ACHIEVE program.
Anita Lang brings more than two decades of experience to her role. With roots in a family where inclusion was a core value, and inspired by her mother’s work in special education, Lang has long championed compassionate, person-centered support. A Texas A&M sociology alumna, she later earned a Master of Management and spent nearly 20 years at the MHMR Authority of Brazos Valley. Her awards—including Employee of the Year and the Extraordinary Service Award—reflect her outstanding service.
“It is my mission to ensure that we continue building a program that uplifts, empowers, and prepares our students for success in all areas of life.”
Robert Pettit has also made a significant mark in the field, dedicating nearly a decade to advancing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With degrees in psychology and human behavior, Pettit combines clinical knowledge with compassionate advocacy. Prior to joining Aggie ACHIEVE, he worked in mental health and the criminal justice system, bringing a wealth of insight to his current role overseeing job development, coaching, and operations. Pettit’s dedication was honored with the Program Service Employee of the Year award in 2019 and the Outstanding Staff Support award in 2024.
"My goal is to ensure that every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to live a fulfilling and self-determined life.”
Congratulations to Anita and Robert on this well-deserved recognition. Their work continues to create lasting change and opportunity within our university and beyond.
