Law Firm Announces Emma Hammoud Is the Recipient of Inaugural Richard Rassel Butzel Core Values Scholarship

DETROIT, Mich. – Butzel is happy to announce Emma Hammoud is the recipient of the inaugural Richard Rassel Butzel Core Values Scholarship ($15,000). Hammoud, a Northville resident, is a student at Michigan State University College of Law.

The Selection Committee determined Hammoud best embodies Butzel’s Core Values of Excellence, Drive, Trust, and Teamwork. Notably, the scholarship honors Richard "Dick" Rassel, a distinguished Michigan Lawyers Hall of Fame litigator and former Managing Partner of Butzel, who has embodied these values throughout his illustrious career as an attorney, leader, and community advocate.

After law school, Hammoud plans to begin her career with a Detroit-based law firm where she plans to build a practice focused on complex commercial litigation and appellate advocacy, reflecting legal excellence and public service.

“Emma is an exceptional law school student with a special interest in helping the city of Detroit and its surrounding areas,” said Paul M. Mersino, President and CEO, Butzel. “Emma is a leader and community advocate. We couldn’t be happier to name her as the recipient of this inaugural scholarship.”

Butzel hosted a celebration in honor of Hammoud on May 12, 2025 in the firm’s Detroit office.

Eligibility for the Richard Rassel Butzel Core Values Scholarship required applicants meet the following criteria:

• Current 1L law students enrolled at an accredited Michigan law school.
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.5.
• Must be enrolled for the 2L academic year at an accredited Michigan law school.