Alumni Spotlight: 2025 Alum of the Year Kelly Matayoshi ’12

A standout litigator and respected leader in the profession, Kelly Matayoshi ’12 of Farella Braun + Martel LLP was named UC Law SF’s 2025 Alum of the Year in recognition of her remarkable career accomplishments and enduring commitment to the College.

Kelly Matayoshi ’12, a partner at Farella Braun + Martel, was recently named UC Law SF’s 2025 Alum of the Year. Known for her deep commitment to mentorship, leadership in bar associations, and steadfast support of the College, she reflects on her path to law, her time as a student, and what motivates her to give back.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and what drew you to UC Law SF?

A: I was very quiet and shy as a child, but my mom pushed me to do speech and debate in middle school. By the time I was in high school I was on the mock trial team (a passion I continued into college). At that point, my path became obvious. When it came to law schools, I applied early to UC Law SF, got in, and never looked back. My mom, along with four aunts and uncles, were all graduates of UC Law SF! Having grown up in Hawaii surrounded by UC Law SF alumni, I knew I would get a top-notch legal education there.

Q: What UC Law SF experiences had a lasting impact on you?

A: I was a huge mooter in law school. In my 2L year I took the unusual step of competing in two moot court competitions. Between that, taking appellate advocacy, competing in the internal Snodgrass competition, and joining the Moot Court Board, my 2L year was pretty much all moot court. In my 3L year I was the Moot Court Board co-chair, coached teams, and did the Hastings Appellate Project representing an actual client pro bono in the Ninth Circuit. After graduation, I continued to coach moot court teams. UC Law SF has the best moot court team in the nation, and I’m so proud to have been a part of it!

Q: What advice would you give to current students or young alumni?

A: Being a lawyer is more than just practicing law. We are in a privileged position as advocates, and you should use your voice outside of the workplace as well. Find a community of people whose values align with your own and join them. I have found so much fulfillment as a lawyer through joining and leading bar associations. They remind me that a lot of good can be accomplished by working together. Whether it’s mentoring the next generation of lawyers or advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion, do something that makes a difference.

Q: How do you stay connected to UC Law SF and your fellow alumni?

The friendships I made at UC Law SF have endured and deepened over time. I’ve stayed connected through reunions, organizing alumni gatherings, and serving on the Board of Governors and Board of Trustees. I’ve also coached moot court teams, serve on the Center for Litigation and Courts Advisory Board, and regularly mentor students—formally and informally. I think it’s our obligation to the next generation to mentor and do what we can to help them navigate this challenging profession.

Q: Can you share a favorite memory or defining moment from your time at UC Law SF?

A: During my 1L summer, I was a judicial extern at the Northern District of California with Judge Edward Chen. My girlfriend (now wife) was also a judicial extern in the Northern District, and we thought it would be a good idea to live together in my “efficiency” apartment in the Tower. We snuck in our guinea pig, Miso, who lived with us that summer in what must have been one of the smallest units there. While living conditions were cramped, it was one of the most fun summers I had in San Francisco!