In 2022, Klasko Immigration Law Partners introduced The Lisa Felix Award, a very special award to honor the memory and legacy of a very special person. Lisa Felix was an attorney at Klasko Immigration Law Partners who passed in 2020 after a long illness. The award is intended to recognize someone who embodies the spirit of Lisa Felix, who radiated unconditional, unwavering, and selfless kindness even in difficult times.
The peer nominations featured KILP staff members that live life with honesty, integrity, and responsibility. The motto of “Live like Lisa” comes to mind of someone who is friendly, generous, considerate, creates a fun atmosphere, and always spreads positivity, even during difficult times.
On July 15, Kristin Peresta, KILP’s Director of Client Communications & Workload, was awarded the inaugural Lisa Felix Award for her innate ability to spread unconditional, unwavering, and selfless kindness among the KILP community. In Kristin’s nomination, her peer said, “You never walk away from Kristin and feel like you have not been heard… She always finds ways to keep camaraderie and laughter part of every day while meeting work goals and deadlines. I think Lisa Felix would very much agree that Kristin is a great member of the KILP family and deserving of this award.”
About Kristin’s nomination and receiving the honor, Ron Klasko said “Kristin was the first person our law firm hired when we opened our door on January 1, 2004. Obviously, we got off to an incredible start as it doesn’t get any better as a first hire than Kristin Peresta. Kristin has been such a key part of what we have done, both as lawyers and paralegals and also in the technology sphere. She has played a very special role in interpersonal relationships within the firm and has contributed greatly to our firm being honored as “Best Place to Work”. She’s just been such a critical role. Many of you have gone to Kristin for advice and help.”
Kristin has over 25 years of experience in US immigration law and works to develop, implement, and streamline standard firm-wide operating procedures to ensure client needs and expectations are met to the highest level possible. She also has more than 13 years of experience in managing, developing, and mentoring employees. Outside the office, Kristin enjoys time with her spouse and two cats, Franklin and Lincoln, aptly named because of her love of history. She enjoys visiting historical sites in the U.S. and Europe, playing tennis, reading, and shopping. She shared two quotes that resonate with her, and truly believes a simple smile can go a long way:
“Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people.”
“Never underestimate the big importance of small things.”
About receiving the honor, Kristin says, “I am honored to have been selected by the Firm to receive this award. I am grateful for the recognition and so lucky to be working with such an amazing group of people. Lisa was an extraordinary woman and attorney. She always made me smile whenever I saw her and I hope to continue to do the same for others.”
Kristin Peresta has had such a positive effect on the KILP community by leading by example with kindness, understanding, and empathy. She not only meets but exceeds the expectations of a Lisa Felix Award recipient.
Please join us in wishing a big congratulations, Kristin!
