She taught in the public school system in a mid-sized city for 42 years. Lancer has her masters in special education and a doctorate in higher education and psychology from a private university, where, while studying for her doctorate, she taught special education to other teachers. She was a single mom for a number of years, teaching in school while raising two children. She is a professional artist – sculptor and painter – with an art website and credentials for juried exhibits, awards and honors. Lancer volunteers with older elementary school students, teaching creative writing skills and helping young children become published poets.