Anna Rider is the Innovation Lab Coordinator at Furman University’s Center for Innovative Leadership, where she supports the communication, preparation, and execution of programs, events, and courses. Her role extends to the Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Furman Innovation Lab, where she contributes to cultivating a collaborative, innovative environment that bridges academia, entrepreneurship, and community impact.

With a multidisciplinary background spanning operations management, arts education, and creative direction, Anna brings a unique blend of logistical acumen and artistic insight to her work. Before joining Furman, she served as Studio Director at MK Performing Arts in Atlanta, where she led operations and coached aspiring performers with clarity and empathy. Her early career as a professional performer and voice coach continues to inform her people-centered, adaptive approach to leadership and program coordination.

Anna is passionate about fostering spaces where innovation, accessibility, and community engagement intersect—supporting both the people and the systems that make impactful programming possible.

Education

• B.F.A, Musical Theatre