The Mahopac Model UN Club continues to make its mark in the Hudson Valley, recently participating in the prestigious Bard College Model UN Conference. This year, the club brought a record-breaking 15 students to the event, marking their largest delegation in the club’s first three years. The students worked alongside peers from other regional high schools to tackle complex global issues through historical simulations.
The conference featured a series of simulations, with Mahopac’s delegates representing nine different countries in the General Assembly. They engaged in discussions on pressing international topics that were prominent on the UN floor in September 1991. Their efforts were not only intellectually challenging but also showcased their dedication to diplomacy, critical thinking and global awareness.
Among the standout achievements at the conference was junior Lucy Hernandez, who co-authored a resolution that passed almost unanimously. As a result of her outstanding work, Lucy was awarded the coveted Best Delegate honor, the highest recognition presented at the event. This marks Lucy’s second time receiving the Best Delegate award, underscoring her continued excellence in Model UN competitions.
In the Joint Crisis Committees, which simulated the tumultuous power struggles of England in 1066, two Mahopac students were also recognized for their exceptional performance. Junior Eileen Cotroneo received an honorable mention, while junior Megan Moloney was awarded Outstanding Delegate, further demonstrating the talent within the Mahopac Model UN delegation.
Co-advisers Chris Ford and Christine Honohan expressed how proud they were of their students’ accomplishments.
“It was very rewarding being able to watch Mahopac students involved in their committees,” Ford said. “We had many first-time delegates, and they all held their own with their more-experienced peers. I’m so very proud of how many participants we had and the awards they brought home for Mahopac. They represented our community well.”
In addition to the conference, the Model UN Club volunteered at Lakeview Elementary School’s Multicultural Night, where they encouraged younger students to expand their geography skills through interactive online maps and coloring activities featuring flags from around the world.
As the club continues to grow and garner recognition, Ford and Honohan remain excited for the future of Mahopac’s Model UN program.
