Anne Beiler began twisting pretzels in 1987 to support her husband Jonas’ vision to open a free counseling service in their community. What began as a single farmer’s market stand grew into Auntie Anne’s Inc., the world’s largest mall-based pretzel franchise with over 1,000 locations worldwide. Anne is among an elite group of women that have founded national companies in America, and is one of an even smaller number that have owned an international franchise company.

Anne’s journey to become a leading female entrepreneur began many years before the first pretzel was ever rolled. In September of 1975, Anne and her husband experienced a parent’s worst nightmare – the loss of a child. This event propelled Anne into years of darkness during which she nearly lost her husband, her family, and her faith. Out of her pain came purpose and the desire to persevere towards success personally and professionally.

Anne’s vision to serve, inspire, and give has been recognized multiple times. She was named one of America’s 500 women entrepreneurs by Working Women and Entrepreneur...