The Union College Model United Nations team recently won three awards at the National Model United Nations conference in New York City.
The group came away with an Honorable Mention and an Outstanding Position Paper award. Christina Cerqueira ’10 was recognized for her exemplary contributions to the UNIFEM committee, which addresses international women’s rights.
The event, held last month, is considered the most prestigious collegiate political simulation in the world. In 2008, the first time the College participated, the team also clinched an Honorable Mention.
The Union team represented the United Republic of Tanzania.
“This was one of the most successful conferences I have been a part of, particularly because the position paper award recognizes the quality of our preparation,” said Visiting Political Science Professor Darius Watson, the team’s advisor. “Generally, there are about 15 Outstanding Position Paper accolades given.”
Union is one of 300 colleges from across the globe that took part in the conference. Participants discuss real-life issues ranging from economic development and nuclear nonproliferation to the environment and women’s rights.
“Model UN helps students gain an international perspective, public speaking skills and research abilities,” Cerqueira said. “You also learn how hard it is to be diplomatic and get everyone onboard with your ideas when they’re trying to promote their own. It’s a valuable life skill to be able to make people understand a situation as you do.”
Cerquera, who did extensive research for her UNIFEM committee, was pleased to be voted for by her peers. “I gained their trust and proved I was knowledgeable and creative,” she said.
Joining Cerqueira at the event last month were Tom Ames ’09, Maeghan Buckley ’11, Courtney Coffin ’09, Deb Estes ’09, Mitchell Lee ’11, Tamara Linde ’10, Jamie Luguri ’10, Nathalie Marte ’12, Brittany Miller ’09, Sean Mulkerne ’09, Maggie Nivison ’09, Ashlyn Pendleton ’09, Ernest Pough ’12, Katherine Rodman ’10, Lea Tessitore ’12, Matthew Thomas ’12, Ryan Vineyard ’12 and Bradley Wilhelm ’10.