Michael Stills was born in Hammond, Indiana, in 1965 and was raised by a single parent alongside his brother and sister. His uncle, a Marine and State Trooper, was a strong and formative influence in his life.

Michael dedicated nearly 24 years to law enforcement, including his final 11½ years serving as Chief of the Department. Following his retirement, he spent a year at the corporate level with U.S. Steel, traveling nationwide to evaluate security programs at various mills.

He is now in his 15th year in education and currently serves as Principal of Portage High School. Michael is married to his wonderful wife, Jane, and together they have two children, Ryan and Bayli, as well as two German Shorthaired Pointers. He resides in Valparaiso and is a Master Mason with Porter Lodge No. 137.