Anna Wagner Keichline was born in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania. Her father, John Irvin Keichline, was a building contractor and her mother, Emma Wagner Keichline, was a homemaker. Growing up in a family involved in construction provided early exposure to the building trades.

Attended local schools in Bellefonte. Demonstrated an early aptitude for mathematics and science.

Completed her secondary education at Bellefonte High School, laying the groundwork for her future academic pursuits.

Enrolled at Pennsylvania State College, where she studied mechanical engineering. She was one of the first women to study in this field at Penn State.

Took a break from formal study to gain practical experience. Worked as a draftsperson and construction supervisor for her father's company. This provided valuable hands-on experience in building design and construction.

Studied architecture at Drexel Institute in Philadelphia, broadening her skills and knowledge base. Her time at Drexel focused her interest on architecture.

Continued architectural studies at Cornell University, graduating in 1920. She was one of the first women to receive an architecture degree from Cornell. Her education at Cornell was interrupted by her work during WWI.