Students attend Model UN, earn awards

Among the high school students who attended this year’s Model United Nations event at Bloomsburg University on March 20, 37 were from Williamsport Area High School.

Students collectively brought home a number of awards and recognitions:

• Elijah Hopton and Ashlin Paulhamus, representing the Republic of Korea, earned Honorable Mention, Chair’s Award in Security Council.
• Sam Baier and Faith Nonemaker, representing Algeria, won the Chair’s Award in Security Council.
• Austin Chen and Robert Leiter, representing Turkey, earned Honorable Mention, Chair’s Award in General Assembly.
• Madilyn Heller and Aiden Everett, representing China, earned Honorable Mention Peer Award in World Health Organization.
• Cali Reed and Emily Kime, representing Norway, earned Honorable Mention, Best Written Position Paper and Peer Award in Human Rights Council.

According to its website, Model UN “is an authentic simulation of the UN General Assembly, UN Security Council, or other multilateral body, which introduces students to the world of diplomacy, negotiation, and decision making.

“At Model UN, students step into the shoes of ambassadors of countries that are members of the UN … The students, better known as ‘delegates’, debate current issues on the organization’s vast agenda. They prepare draft resolutions, plot strategy, negotiate with supporters and adversaries, resolve conflicts, and navigate the UN’s rules of procedure — all in the interest of resolving problems that affect the world.”