Michael J. Jasaitis, Crown Point, Chair-Elect, House of Delegates, is a partner at Austgen Kuiper Jasaitis based in Crown Point. He is a graduate of Valparaiso University and Valparaiso University School of Law. Michael is a member of the Lake County (past president), Indiana State (past chair, Young Lawyers Section, and former district representative and secretary, Board of Governors) and American bar associations. He is a member of the Calumet American Inn of Court. Michael serves on the executive committee and is a member of the Lake Area United Way Board of Directors (chair-elect for 2020), and he is a youth soccer coach. He was born in East Chicago.

Professional enjoyment: The legal profession provides us the opportunity to have an impact on a wide range of people in a challenging, yet gratifying, environment.

Your inspiration: It had been a thought since middle school upon meeting a lawyer during a career day. After getting an opportunity to test the waters, defending my hallmates in a college disciplinary proceeding (for an alleged late-night, Nintendo Tecmo Bowl noise violation), I got the urge to explore the profession in greater detail. Thereafter, the practice of law truly appeared to be a vocation where one could make a significant difference in a variety of ways, whether inside or outside of the courtroom.

Why bar association involvement: It gives us the ability to associate with like-minded individuals and to collaborate with other legal professionals. This leads to fantastic networking opportunities with lawyers, judges and legislators, which benefit everyone involved (as well as the clients we represent). Furthermore, our bar association provides an environment for attorneys of all experience levels to hone and improve their legal acumen through particular section involvement.

If not a lawyer: a stand-up comedian or educator

Fav hobbies: soccer (both coaching and playing).

Fav book or author and current reading: Chase the Lion … in between Goosebumps, Dr. Seuss, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and N.E.3d Reporter.

Fav vacation spot: on the balcony of a cruise ship in the Caribbean with my family.

Fav food or restaurant: corn on the cob, In-N-Out Burger restaurant or any good sushi joint.

Top of your bucket list: watching my three children become difference-makers.