Rebecca Kanninen, JD

I attribute my success to honesty, loyalty, and leading with integrity. Growing up in a household with parents who were educators, public policy conversations were always part of my life, which naturally led me into a career in law. Over the course of my 30-year career in law, government relations, and public policy, I have relocated to Arizona to care for my parents and now focus on a small legal practice. I am also excited to enter a new era as the founder of The Dog and Door Play, the first-of-its-kind indoor dog theme park, scheduled to open in 2026, where I am leveraging my skills in law, partnerships, and fundraising.

The best career advice I have received is to ask for help and not be afraid to reach out. I’ve learned that doing what you truly love may sometimes take you to roles that aren’t exactly what you envisioned, but they can ultimately allow you to pursue your passions while leading with integrity. Pursuing what really makes you happy has guided many of my decisions.

To young women entering the industry, I would advise using your network and relationships as a foundation and trusting your instincts. It’s important to lean into your intuition when making career decisions, particularly when launching passion projects or stepping outside traditional roles. I encourage others to actively use their connections and visibility platforms to grow professionally and to balance personal values with professional ambition. Recognizing the significance of family and caregiving in your journey can help you understand that career paths can evolve around life responsibilities.

I value the lessons I learned attending the University of Wisconsin–Madison and law school while pregnant. Being older than many of my peers gave me a deeper appreciation and perspective on learning and responsibility. I am grateful for the way this experience shaped me, influencing how I approach client calls and personal interactions. After establishing myself in law and public policy, I chose to launch an innovative indoor dog park, aligning my career with my personal passions. My core values include passion, instincts, and networking, which guide both my professional and personal endeavors.