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Anna Rapp
Founder & CEO at To Make a Mommy
Professional Background
Anna Rapp is a dynamic and accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in the governmental sectors, particularly in safety and security. Over the course of a decade, she has held numerous positions that highlight her expertise in program management, inter-organizational collaboration, and leadership coaching. As a federal program manager, Anna utilized her MBA in Business Administration and Management as well as her MPPA in Public Policy and Administration to drive organizational excellence and enhance safety protocols within various esteemed organizations including the National Nuclear Security Administration and the U.S. Department of State.
In her role as Security Programs Manager at the U.S. Department of State's Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), Anna played a pivotal part in developing security programs that ensured the safety of personnel operating abroad. She also contributed her knowledge as a Nonproliferation Graduate Fellow at the National Nuclear Security Administration, further solidifying her reputation as a knowledgeable agent in the field of safety and security. Additionally, her early experience as a Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant at esteemed institutions such as the University of Massachusetts at Amherst provided her with a robust foundation in research and policy analysis.
Education and Achievements
Anna's educational journey reflects her commitment to understanding complex systems and enhancing organizational processes. She earned her MBA from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, specializing in Business Administration and Management, and her MPPA from the same institution with a focus on Public Policy and Administration. Her undergraduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill culminated in a Bachelor of Arts in Russian and East European Studies and Political Science, further broadening her understanding of global political climates.
In her pursuit of excellence, Anna has also interned for prestigious organizations, including the British American Security Information Council (BASIC) and the NATO International School of Azerbaijan. These experiences enriched her knowledge in international security and diplomacy, which have proven invaluable throughout her career.
Entrepreneurship and Community Engagement
Anna's diverse background and experiences fueled her passion for creating a supportive community for women facing the challenges of pregnancy. On a whim, she founded the blog "To Make a Mommy," where she documents her personal journey through fertility, despite the odds presented to her by medical professionals. Her blog has garnered impressive attention, with over 2 million views, connecting her with tens of thousands of women who share similar struggles.
Through her blog, Anna provides insightful content surrounding diet, non-toxic living, mind-body work, and the science behind these practices, offering more than just hope to her readers. The sense of community she has cultivated thrives on the shared experiences of her audience, creating a platform where women can seek and share support along their personal journeys toward motherhood. Anna’s genuine desire to uplift and inspire others is evidenced by the weekly messages she receives, filled with joy and positivity, marking significant milestones like baby pictures and pregnancy test announcements.
In addition to her blog, Anna encourages women to take actionable steps toward their fertility goals by offering resources like a fertility checklist and a newsletter. By doing so, she aims to be the guiding light for those who find themselves searching for answers late at night after endless online research about pregnancy. Anna's commitment to fostering a caring environment leads women not just to find hope, but also community and valuable information that empowers them on their paths to motherhood.