Women Who Inspire Wednesday: Beth Rose
Written by Program Coordinator, Chris Schnell
Co-Founder & Board Treasurer, Alaska Eating Disorders Alliance (AKEDA)
Born and raised in Alaska, Beth Rose is an Alaskan through and through. She has spent her life building stronger communities through nonprofit leadership and philanthropy. Six years ago, she co-founded the Alaska Eating Disorders Alliance (AKEDA) to fill a critical gap in treatment and support for Alaskans struggling with eating disorders. What began as conversations with co-founder Jenny Loudon about personal experiences has grown into a statewide behavioral health nonprofit that offers support groups, provider trainings, prevention programs, advocacy, and resources for individuals and families.
Beth frames eating disorders as a social justice issue—one deeply tied to healthcare access, underdiagnosis in marginalized groups, and harmful stereotypes. “Nobody should have to walk this path alone,” she reflects. Her leadership has opened new conversations across Alaska, challenged stigma, and empowered people to seek help and healing.
Beth’s career also spans 25+ years of nonprofit management, communications and philanthropy, including raising more than $140 million during her tenure at the Alaska Community Foundation. She has served in senior leadership roles at UAA, Alaska Junior Theater, and Northwest Strategies. Her honors include the YWCA Woman of Achievement award, the Anchorage Chamber Athena Award, and AFP Alaska’s Fundraising Professional of the Year.
Outside her professional life, Beth is an avid photographer and outdoorswoman. Whether hiking with her husband of 37 years or chasing the Northern Lights with her camera, she finds balance and joy in Alaska’s wild beauty.
Q&A with Beth Rose
What did receiving the Women of Achievement award mean to you?
It was a huge honor to join such an impressive group of women. It was a vote of confidence and a reminder of the importance of women lifting each other up.
How did the award influence your journey?
The recognition gave our young nonprofit credibility. It helped with grant writing and showed others that our work was valued by the community. It also meant a lot to my family to see me recognized.
What positive changes have you noticed in women’s leadership in Alaska?
I see so many strong women leaders rolling up their sleeves across nonprofits, government, and business. Leaders like Mayor Suzanne LaFrance and those at foundations inspire me every day. It’s a reminder that women are reshaping Alaska’s future.
What advice would you give to future honorees?
Recognize your own achievements and know you belong. Many of us struggle, but if you see a need, step in. Do the things that inspire you and make sure you take time to yourself, take time to refuel. Find ways to recharge so that you don’t burn out.
What lesson do you wish you had known earlier?
You don’t have to go it alone. Team-focused work achieves more, and credit doesn’t matter as much as the outcome.
What are you most proud of since receiving the award?
Founding and growing AKEDA. It’s personal, it’s universal, and it aligns with the YWCA’s mission. By sharing my own story of recovery, I’ve helped break stigma and open doors for others.
Outside of work, what brings you joy?
Photography, hiking, and exploring Alaska with my husband and friends. Immersing myself in Alaska’s extraordinary beauty and wild places remind me to stay present and grateful.
Closing Note
Beth Rose shows us that vulnerability and leadership go hand in hand. By turning personal experience into advocacy, she’s transforming Alaska’s approach to eating disorders and modeling the kind of courage that uplifts communities.