The Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association (MNAPABA) has officially opened applications for the 2025 Terry M. Louie Founders Scholarship. This opportunity is designed for law students and recent graduates who plan to spend their summer using their legal training to serve the public especially underrepresented or Asian Pacific American (APA) communities.
If you’re working in the public interest, nonprofit, or government sector this summer, this scholarship can offer much-needed financial support. Read on for full details, eligibility requirements, and how to apply before the May 30, 2025 deadline.
About the Terry M. Louie Founders Scholarship
This scholarship honors Terry M. Louie, a visionary leader and the first president of MNAPABA. As a founding member, Mr. Louie played a vital role in establishing a space for Asian Pacific American legal professionals to thrive and advocate for their communities.
Created in his memory, this scholarship not only celebrates his legacy but also continues his mission: empowering legal professionals who are committed to public service and community advancement.
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What Does the Scholarship Offer?
The Terry M. Louie Founders Scholarship, awarded by MNAPABA (Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association), offers approximately $1,500 to qualified candidates. This one-time award is designed to support law students and recent graduates who take on meaningful but often unpaid or low-paid legal roles.
Key Benefits:
- Award Amount: Approximately $1,500
- Purpose: To help fund summer legal work that benefits underserved or APA communities
- Usage: Can be used toward living expenses, transportation, or other internship-related costs
- Number of Awards: Varies based on funding and applicant pool
This scholarship helps remove financial barriers for those choosing to use their legal education in service to others, especially where compensation may be limited or unavailable.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
This opportunity is tailored for:
Basic Eligibility:
- Current law students enrolled in an accredited law school
- Recent law school graduates (generally within the past year)
Internship or Job Requirements:
- Must be working during summer 2025 in a legal position that:
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- Benefits underserved communities
- Supports Asian Pacific American communities
- Is with a nonprofit, government, or public interest organization
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Preferred Candidates:
- Working within Minnesota or with organizations directly serving APA populations
- Have a proven commitment to social justice, public service, or advocacy work
What to Include in Your Application
To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must provide a complete application package. Be sure to gather and organize all necessary documents before the May 30, 2025 deadline.
Required Materials:
- Completed Application Form (access through MNAPABA’s news page or by emailing mnapaba@gmail.com)
- Personal Statement explaining your summer legal position and how it supports public or APA communities
- Current Resume
- Proof of Summer Legal Employment (job offer, confirmation email, or similar)
Optional but Recommended:
- Letters of Recommendation to highlight your dedication, qualifications, or public service involvement
Submission Instructions:
- Email your full application package to mnapaba@gmail.com
- Subject Line: 2025 Scholarship Application [Your Full Name]
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Deadline and Submission Guidelines
- Application Due Date: May 30, 2025
- Submission Method: Email only
- Late or Incomplete Applications: Will not be considered—apply early!
To avoid last-minute issues, aim to submit at least a few days before the deadline. Confirm all attachments are included and labeled clearly.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Summer public service roles especially those in nonprofit or government are often unpaid or low-paid. Yet, they provide vital legal aid to communities that need it most. This scholarship helps bridge that gap by financially supporting future lawyers committed to making a difference.
Impact of the Scholarship:
- Enables students to pursue passion-driven legal work
- Helps relieve the financial strain of unpaid internships
- Encourages long-term careers in public interest law
- Honors APA leadership and advocacy through legal service
This scholarship continues the legacy of Terry M. Louie, MNAPABA’s founding president, by supporting individuals who reflect his vision for service and equity in law.
The 2025 Terry M. Louie Founders Scholarship is more than just financial aid, it’s a chance to be recognized for your commitment to justice and community. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact through your legal training this summer, don’t miss this opportunity.
Apply by May 30, 2025. For full details or to access the application form, visit the MNAPABA News Page or email mnapaba@gmail.com.
