Who is Anna Blue and what is her new role at RTRX?
Anna Blue, former president and CEO of the AHLA Foundation, is now senior strategic advisor at RTRX, a partnership between Rockbridge, Pelotonia and the Columbus Partnership that funds cancer research. She will provide guidance to support RTRX’s growth, extend its reach and strengthen its platform.
At the AHLA Foundation, Blue expanded ForWard, No Room for Trafficking and the foundation’s academic and workforce development programs, the fundraiser said in a statement.
“RTRX was built to convene the inherently curious — people who want to challenge the status quo, lead with purpose, and drive change,” said Jimmy Merkel, co-founder and CEO of Rockbridge and founder of RTRX. “Anna reflects that mission. She brings experience and a focus on impact that will help shape RTRX’s future and extend its reach.”
Before entering hospitality, Blue held leadership roles at Girl Up at the United Nations Foundation, Tech Coalition and The Female Quotient. Her work in building movements, guiding national conversations and advancing systemic change aligns with RTRX’s mission to convene and support changemakers.
“RTRX’s mission of ‘priming optimists for action’ aligns with the focus of my career,” said Blue. “I’m glad to join the team and help shape a community that encourages people to lead with purpose, challenge the status quo, and drive change.”
Suraj Hinduja, RTRX managing director, said Blue’s career has focused on driving change.
“Her ability to connect vision with execution, foster new ideas, and build partnerships will be key as we grow RTRX as a space for connection, ideas, and impact,” he said.
RTRX brings together leaders from startups to Fortune 500 companies across 28 states, the statement said. Through programming and focused connections, it supports attendees in developing leadership, building networks and investing in themselves and their teams.
All RTRX proceeds support Pelotonia’s cancer research, with more than $7 million invested so far.
In March, Kevin Carey, AHLA’s chief operating officer and senior vice president, was appointed president and CEO of the AHLA Foundation.
