The Michigan State University Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) recently announced the addition of Rebecca Paalman to its Executive Board. Paalman joins an accomplished group of women serving in a variety of leadership roles across the corporate and professional world. Board members provide unique support to undergraduates participating in the WLI Student Cohort through a variety of mentoring and skill-building opportunities throughout the school year.
“Welcoming Becky Paalman to the WLI Executive Board is another exciting step forward for the Women's Leadership Institute,” WLI Director Amanda Guinot Talbot commented. “Becky has been a valued member of the WLI family for many years, generously investing her time, expertise, and encouragement in our students. Her passion for developing leaders, combined with her fresh perspective and collaborative spirit, will bring new energy and ideas to our work. We are thrilled to welcome Becky to the Executive Board and look forward to the impact she will have on the future of WLI.”
Paalman (‘99) has worked at the Michigan-headquartered Stryker corporation for over ten years and currently serves as Senior Director of its Finance Transformation division. She is an alumni of the College of Social Science with a degree in psychology, as well as a certified orthopedic nurse with a master’s degree in healthcare administration. In addition to the WLI, Paalman has participated in several nonprofits including serving as president of the Junior League of Lansing.
“I'm excited to join the WLI Executive Board and support an organization that is empowering the next generation of women leaders,” said Paalman. “What drew me to WLI was its commitment to creating opportunities for growth, mentorship, and meaningful connection, and I'm honored to contribute to a community that is helping students build the confidence, skills, and relationships needed to lead and make a lasting impact.”
Paalman enters her role on the Executive Board after supporting the WLI for several years as a student mentor and keynote speaker. In 2024, she spoke to the group about navigating the internship process as well as ways to improve their public speaking and presentation skills. Paalman is very involved with the Stryker Emerging Professionals program and its Women’s Network Employee Resource Groups. This fall, the cohort will head to Stryker’s main campus in Kalamazoo for a tour of the facilities and fireside chat with Paalman.
This year's theme driving the Institute, From Presence to Impact, reflects the next step in students' leadership journeys.
“Leadership begins with understanding who we are, but it grows through the confidence to use our voices, the courage to influence others, and the commitment to create meaningful change,” said Talbot. “Throughout the year, students will explore what it means to strengthen their leadership presence—developing confidence, communication, and authentic influence—before turning outward to learn how collaboration, mentorship, and community engagement amplify their impact. By moving from inward growth to collective leadership, students will discover that the most meaningful leaders don't simply make an impression; they empower others and leave a lasting impact on the people and communities they serve.”