Ali Razavi (JD ’15), founder and managing attorney of Razavi Law Group, has pledged $25,000 to support competition teams at Chapman University’s Fowler School of Law. A former member of the school’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) team, Razavi credits his participation in competitions as a pivotal moment in his legal career.

“Fowler Law’s ADR team played a significant role in shaping my success,” Razavi said. “It provided invaluable knowledge and even helped me secure one of my first law jobs.”

As an active competitor, Razavi was part of a top-performing team at the 15th Annual Student Environmental Negotiation Competition in 2014 and a finalist in an international negotiation competition in London. These experiences gave him the confidence to pursue a career in law, and now he hopes to provide the same opportunities to future Fowler Law students.

Competitions such as moot court, mock trial, and dispute resolution provide hands-on training that helps law students develop critical skills, including client counseling, negotiation, and advocacy. These experiences prepare students for real-world legal practice, where effective communication and problem-solving are just as essential as legal knowledge.

John Bishop, visiting professor and faculty advisor for Fowler Law’s competition teams, emphasized the importance of these programs. “Students who compete in ADR apply these skills directly in their careers. It’s one of the most impactful experiences of their law school journey,” he said.

The legacy of Fowler Law’s competition teams has been shaped by longtime faculty member Nancy Schultz, who dedicated nearly three decades to coaching and expanding the program. Under her leadership, the school earned national recognition, ranking No. 82 in trial advocacy and dispute resolution, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Razavi’s pledge comes as Fowler Law continues its rise in national rankings, recently reaching No. 108 among U.S. law schools. Inspired by this momentum, he hopes his donation will help students gain the same career-boosting experiences that shaped his own path.

“Chapman is more than just a school—it has had a lasting impact on my career,” Razavi said. “I hope future students will continue to pay it forward.”

For those interested in supporting Chapman University and its students, more information on donations and contributions:  Donate Here today.

Read the article here: Chapman News