Anna Elizabeth Harp

Born on February 19, 1960, in Rochester, NY, Anna graduated from Kendall High School in 1978 and SUNY Brockport in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. She worked as a software developer for several years, ending up at IBM in 1991, developing real-time software for the B-2 bomber. It is here that she met future husband Doug. The two wed in 1994. After several years as a software developer, Anna decided to change careers and pursue the field of Education. She earned a master's degree in Elementary Education and Teaching from SUNY Cortland in 1997, with her final student teaching placement in London, England. She spent the next 3 years on the SUNY Cortland faculty, teaching prospective teachers how to use computers in the classroom.

With the birth of her first child, Anna took a hiatus from teaching to focus on being a mother. She loved being a mom and structured the rest of her life with her children at its core. The family moved to Western New York in 2002 to be close to grandparents. While researching early childhood education options in the area, Anna discovered the Aurora Waldorf School. While Madline and Spencer attended classes, Anna volunteered for various tasks at the school. In 2010, AWS hired Anna as an administrative assistant. She became AWS Administrator in 2017.

As the Administrator, Anna led the school through the accreditation processes of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America and NYS Association of Independent Schools. This had been discussed for many years. Anna made it happen.

Anna also led the school through the COVID-19 era. The school was able to reconfigure the building and conduct in-person classes throughout the entire pandemic.

Anna stepped back from her role at AWS in 2025 to focus on her health after receiving her cancer diagnosis. She underwent multiple treatment regimens, always hopeful for recovery. She fought valiantly, ending treatment mere weeks before her death.

She is survived by her husband, Douglas, daughter Madeline (Thomas) Morris, son Spencer, brothers Mark (Phyllis) Bewicke and Lee Bewicke, and nieces and nephews.

The family extends their gratitude to all who have reached out with condolences and support.