Made for organizations on a mission
I started as a field ecologist studying prairie restoration, earned my Ph.D. in plant ecology, then shifted to science journalism. Along the way, I discovered what I really love: helping organizations working in science, nature, and conservation build the communications capacity they need to thrive.
Since 2021, I’ve worked at the intersection of science, storytelling, and strategy — helping organizations not just communicate better, but build the systems and frameworks that make good communication sustainable.
I’ve served as Board President of a startup native plant nonprofit, building their organizational infrastructure from the ground up. I’ve been embedded with Holden Forests & Gardens for years as their science communications specialist. And whether I’m writing science features for university magazines, editing podcast scripts, or helping a solo environmental educator refresh their brand, I focus on clarity, strategy, and making complex ideas accessible.
From strategic planning to hands-on execution, from building organizations to telling their stories, I help mission-driven teams do more than get the word out — I help them build the capacity to do it well.
Featured case study: Building Botanical Belonging
When a passionate plant educator wanted to launch a native plant nonprofit, she had the vision and expertise — but no organizational infrastructure. As founding Board President and communications lead, I built the systems, strategy, and communications foundation that transformed her idea into a sustainable organization.
What I did: Strategic planning, website development, communications systems, operational workflows, hiring support, educational materials
The result: A thriving nonprofit with consistent programming, growing membership, and the organizational capacity to scale
Three ways to work together
Part-Time Communications Leadership
Strategic direction and systems-building for organizations that need communications leadership but can’t justify a full-time hire.
Organizational Development
Launch support for new initiatives — from strategy and systems to website and messaging.
Strategic Writing & Science Communication
Expert content that translates complex science and tells compelling stories without the marketing speak.
Happy clients
Here’s what people are saying about Ampliflora.
Anna’s editorial, social media and website talents are indispensable! As a nonprofit, we couldn’t exist without engaging people in our mission, and having a skilled writer and strategist on our team makes community engagement happen. Anna is a master at understanding our mission and getting our voice out there at the right time.
— Patti Ragsdale, Executive Director, Botanical Belonging
Anna is an amazing editor who has helped me clearly map out my podcast project. Her regular feedback keeps me from wandering down too many side paths, while also providing clear line edits to help punch up my scripts. Working with her is always a joy!
— Sadie Witkowski, PhD, Creator/Host, In Defense of Fandom
Anna is an incredible creative talent with an ability to adapt her voice and tone to any project. As a trained scientist, she is thorough and meticulous with her research but is also very approachable and receptive of feedback. She can take complex concepts and make them approachable. Anna is organized, easy to work with, and completes assignments with efficiency and enthusiasm. Highly recommend!
— Elizabeth Ruzzo, PhD, CEO, adyn
As a scientist, I’ve been impressed by Anna’s ability to transform complex scientific concepts into engaging and accessible content. Her passion for both writing and science communication has enhanced our ability to connect the public with our science at Holden.
— Katie Stuble, PhD, Research Chair, Holden Forests & Gardens
Just wanted to send a quick note and let you know how great it’s been working with you on promoting all of our science content. The results of our work together have been impactful, and we are reaching a much larger audience than ever before. Thanks so much for all your help. Looking forward to even more success in the future.
— David Burke, PhD, Vice President for Science and Conservation, Holden Forests & Gardens
Anna is a true writing-and-editing triple threat: She is an accomplished researcher with a firm grasp of complex and technical topics; an engaging interviewer who helps people open up in enlightening ways; and a savvy storyteller, keeping readers delighted while helping them understand key and strategic messages about institutions like ours. It’s rare to find these attributes in one person, and that’s a big reason why working with Anna is such a joy.
— Steve Filmanowicz, Director of Editorial Projects, Marquette University
The latest from the blog
Discover Ampliflora’s insights on connecting people with nature, crafting powerful science stories, and building effective mission-driven communications:
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What I Had on my (Successful) AAAS Mass Media Fellowship Application
This post is a couple of years old and originally appeared on itsdrfunk.com; re-publishing here! Please note that my AAAS MMF was in 2018, your experience in 2025 and beyond may differ slightly or significantly. Hi hello how are you! Here’s a question I get asked ALL the time: What experiences did you have during Read more →
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Beyond Events and Newsletters: Why Traditional Public Outreach Isn’t Enough
On paper, you’re doing all the right things. You’re sending your email newsletter at its promised frequency, and your social following is slowly ticking upward. You host the occasional public event, leading a guided walk or tabling at your local Whatever Fair. You’re doing “public outreach.” So why does it feel like you’re spinning your Read more →
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What Does a Science Communicator Do?
When I meet someone new out in the real world, and they ask me what I do, I almost never say “science communicator.” It’d be the truth, but I’d also be met by a confused look from the person expecting a more mainstream response like “teacher” or “engineer.” Usually I say something like, “I help Read more →