Last fall, Butzel created the Richard Rassel Butzel Core Values Scholarship, an annual $15,000 award to be presented to a deserving law school student. The award will recognize those law students who best embody Butzel’s Core Values of Excellence, Drive, Trust, and Teamwork. 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.

Eligibility

• 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 to receive funds.

Application Requirements

Applicants must complete and submit the following:

1. Application Form

• Personal information, GPA, and law school details.

• Statement of motivation for attending law school and post-graduate plans.

2. Personal Statement (Essay)

• Applicants must submit an essay (500-1,000 words) explaining how they embody the Butzel Core Values: Excellence, Drive, Trust, and Teamwork.

3. Resume

• Highlighting academic achievements, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities.

4. Letter of Recommendation

• One letter from a professor, mentor, or employer attesting to the applicant’s alignment with the Core Values.

5. Transcript

• An unofficial or official law school transcript verifying academic standing.

Timeline

• Application Period: February 1 and closes March 31, 2025.

• Selection Process: Applications will be reviewed in April by the Selection Committee.

• Scholarship Announcement: The recipient will be announced by April 30, 2025.

• Scholarship Award: Funds will be disbursed for the recipient’s 2L year during the fall semester.

• Recognition Event: The recipient will be invited to a special event to celebrate their award.

Applicants must complete and submit an application, which can be found on the Butzel website at www.butzel.com. Applicants need to compete and submit the application, and all required accompanying materials to simoncic@butzel.com no later than March 31, 2025, by 5 p.m.

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