Judge William M. Marutani Fellowship

The Hon. William M. Marutani Fellowship provides financial support to law students who secure summer internships with nonprofit public interest organizations or government entities—including courts and judicial offices—across Pennsylvania and the Greater Philadelphia region. The fellowship helps remove financial barriers for students pursuing careers in public service and social justice.

Established by the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Pennsylvania (APABA-PA) in partnership with the Philadelphia Bar Foundation, the fellowship honors the legacy of Judge William M. Marutani—the first Asian American judge in Pennsylvania. A dedicated public servant and civil rights advocate, Judge Marutani worked tirelessly on behalf of both the Asian American community and the broader public.

The fellowship reflects Judge Marutani’s commitment to advancing equity and representation in the legal profession. By supporting students who are passionate about public interest law, it helps foster the next generation of legal professionals dedicated to serving marginalized communities and strengthening access to justice for all.