Erik Langenau, DO, MS, MAPP, professor of Pediatrics at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), has seen firsthand the impact gun violence can have on families and communities. As co-director of the College's SHELTER Program, he has worked with patients and providers navigating the trauma left in its wake. Now, he will bring that perspective to a broader stage as a member of Pennsylvania's Office of Gun Violence Prevention Executive Committee.
The Office, created by Governor Josh Shapiro and housed within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), brings together leaders across various sectors to confront one of the most pressing public health issues of our time. Langenau's role on the Executive Committee places him at the center of conversations about prevention strategies, data collection and support services.
His perspective is grounded in SHELTER – short for Support and Healing through Empowerment, Learning and Trauma Education in Recovery after gun violence. Launched with Michelle Lent, PhD, interim Chief Research and Science Officer, and funded through a state PCCD grant, the PCOM program trains healthcare providers in trauma-informed care and expands access to therapy for individuals and families affected by violence.
“Gun violence touches communities across the country, and in some areas the impact is especially profound,” shared Langenau. “While prevention is critical, it's equally important to ensure that services and mental health support are available for those already affected.”
At PCOM's Healthcare Centers, many patients have been directly impacted by gun violence, while clinicians often report feeling unprepared to respond. SHELTER is designed to close that gap, offering providers practical tools to meet patients with compassion and care.
Langenau sees his appointment as a chance to extend the work of SHELTER into statewide policy discussions, ensuring that trauma-informed care and the human impact of gun violence remain part of Pennsylvania’s response.
“I'm honored to be part of these conversations at the state level,” he said. “Many of us on the committee are boots on the ground—we see the impact of gun violence every day. To bring that perspective forward and help shape solutions is an amazing opportunity.”
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
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