This Recap was provided by CMUNC’s Secretary-General, Gerrit Wissink
This year’s Cornell Model United Nations Conference commenced on April 10th in scenic Ithaca on Cornell University’s campus. Over 600 high school students from across the world filed into Cornell’s Bailey Hall for Opening Ceremonies. The Secretariat was joined by keynote speaker, Susan Reichle, the Agency Counselor of USAID, who gave an inspiring speech about being a leader and making valuable change. Her speech encouraged delegates to pursue diplomacy during debate and broaden their horizons while chasing their future goals. Ms. Reichle’s work with nations such as Russia, Colombia, and Haiti encouraged delegates that cooperation with foreign nations promotes positive change. The theme encouraged delegates to stand up for what they believe in and become leaders today.
Susan Reichle at Opening Ceremonies
This year’s conference featured exciting and innovative committees including The Salem Witch Trials, the Non-Governmental Organization Forum, and the Joint Crisis Committee for Secret Cold War. Delegates competed fiercely through four challenging, but enjoyable days. The CMUNC staff expertly staged creative crisis situations that shocked and thrilled the delegates. During mid-night crisis, the Emperor from the Taiping Rebellion Committee was assassinated and delegates had to quickly respond to the aftermath.
Outside of debate, there were several events that delegates had the opportunity to take part in. They were able to take tours of Cornell’s campus, participate in MUN 101, and get an “International Affair” sandwich at Collegetown Bagels. The proceeds from Jar Wars, our candy grams, and the sandwich went to our philanthropy, Samasource. On Saturday night, delegates and staffers were able to unwind and have fun at the Delegate Dance hosted at the Museum of the Earth. Delegates were able to dance the night away surrounded by some incredible fossils.
After an unbelievably marvelous weekend, the conference culminated and the awards were presented. Best Large Delegation went to the Horace Mann School and Outstanding Large Delegation went to the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools. Best Small Delegation went to West Windsor-Plainsboro High School South and Outstanding Small Delegation went to The Masters School. Overall, the Secretariat and staff were impressed and inspired by the high level of debate all weekend and look forward to another great conference next year. Congratulations to everyone on four days of amazing debate and fun!
Here are some photos from the conference:
CMUNC Staff
Salem Witch Trials committee
UN Reforms committee
Delegate dance
