This loss came in spite of the fact that Cropp had been endorsed by outgoing mayor Anthony A. Williams.

In 1971, she received a Master of Education degree[7] in guidance and counseling from Howard University.

From 1970 to 1978, Cropp worked as a teacher and counselor with the District of Columbia Public Schools.

[17] When Council Member Betty Ann Kane decided not to run for reelection to her at-large seat in 1990,[18] Cropp ran to replace her.

[19] The editorial board of the Washington Post endorsed the campaign of her opponent, Johnny Barnes.

Cropp joined the board of two not-for-profit companies, the Community Preservation and Development Corp. and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, and also volunteered for two other local charities, Capital City Links and the D.C. chapter of Boys Town.