Law College Grad Competes in Latest ‘Squid Game’
Fort Lauderdale-based bankruptcy attorney Chad Van Horn, founding partner of Van Horn Law Group, P.A., and a graduate of Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law, is one of the participants in the Netflix reality show “Squid Game: The Challenge,” which recently dropped on the streaming platform. Out of hundreds of thousands of applicants worldwide, Van Horn, known as player 286, secured a coveted spot among the 456 contestants competing for a staggering $4.56 million prize.
What sets Van Horn apart from other players is his commitment to making a difference. If he emerges as the winner of “Squid Game: The Challenge,” he has pledged to donate the entire prize money to Big Brothers Big Sisters to establish a nationwide financial literacy program for the underprivileged youth in their program.
The highly intense and physically demanding challenges of “Squid Game: The Challenge” puts players’ strategies, alliances, and character to the ultimate test. While enduring the grueling competition, Van Horn, the founding partner attorney of Van Horn Law Group, remained resolute in upholding his principles, even in the face of adversity.
“The taping of ‘Squid Game: The Challenge’ was an incredibly fierce and demanding experience, both physically and emotionally,” he said. “Every day I participated, I was pushed to my limits, but I remained focused on maintaining my integrity. Even in the most challenging circumstances, I steadfastly held onto my ethics and values.”
With its extensive cast and unprecedented cash prize, “Squid Game: The Challenge” is expected to captivate a massive global audience, much like its predecessor. The original “Squid Game” drama currently holds the record as Netflix’s most popular series of all time, with more than 1.65 billion viewing hours in the first 28 days following its September 2021 premiere. Van Horn, a dedicated viewer himself, was drawn to the show due to its exploration of financial insecurity.
“The ‘Squid Game’ drama intrigued me because it shed light on the desperation faced by individuals in severe financial predicaments,” he said. “As a bankruptcy attorney, I witness people every day who are overwhelmed by debt, feeling hopeless and panicked. While ‘Squid Game’ showcases extreme circumstances and consequences, the underlying emotions resonate—overwhelming stress and fear.”
Van Horn continues his connections with NSU since graduating and establishing his practice, which is one of top five bankruptcy firms in the state based on cases filed. NSU’s Public Interest Program coordinates with Chad’s namesake Van Horn Law Group Pro Bono Honor Program, developing a variety of programs and opportunities for students to fulfill pro bono hours, while maintaining the records of students’ pro bono work. The Van Horn Law Group Pro Bono Honor Program at the Shepard Broad College of Law recognizes students who are committed to serving the community and engages in the belief that the overall improvement of our community starts with giving citizens – people who make up the foundation of the community – equal access to the legal system.
Posted 11/27/23