We're thrilled to announce that the University of New Hampshire's Model United Nations (Model UN) has been awarded the International Changemaker Grant of $10,000 to embark on an educational and transformative journey to Erfurt, Germany, in November 2023, thanks to the generosity of the Emeriti Council of the UNH Foundation Board and the Alnoba Lewis Family Global Service Initiative Fund. Their mission goes beyond attending the National Model United Nations (NMUN) conference; it's about making a meaningful impact.
A Partnership with a Rich History
UNH Model UN's collaboration with the National Model United Nations (NMUN) sets the stage for an impactful international experience. NMUN, known for "Fostering Global Citizenship Since 1927," is the world's largest and oldest ongoing university-level Model UN. It brings together participants from over 193 UN Member States to address current global challenges. UNH Model UN’s involvement with NMUN provides students with a platform to develop essential skills in diplomacy, negotiation, critical thinking, public speaking, and research, aligning perfectly with UNH's commitment to academic excellence.
UNH Model United Nations is not merely a student organization but a group of dedicated global citizens committed to promoting diplomacy, tolerance, and peace. They strive to emulate the United Nations' values of nonviolent conflict resolution, sustainable development, human rights, and peacekeeping. Their annual participation in conferences like NMUN in New York City allows them to represent the university and engage in real-world diplomacy.
Erfurt: A City of Historical Significance
Erfurt, Germany, is more than just a picturesque European city. It boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with religious, cultural, and political significance. Erfurt's St. Mary's Cathedral, dating back to 742 C.E., and the Erfurter Synagogue, one of the oldest preserved synagogues in Central Europe, stand as testaments to its diverse heritage. However, Erfurt's history also bears witness to the dark chapters of persecution, particularly against the Jewish community, during various periods in history.
In November 1938, the Erfurt Synagogue was ransacked and set ablaze, leading to the persecution and deportation of Jewish residents during the rise of the National Socialists in Germany. The student will tour nearby historical sites, including the Buchenwald concentration camp and Wartburg Castle, which serve as somber reminders of the hate-filled events that have shaped the city.
Service in Germany: Extending Impact
The 2023 NMUN Germany conference in Erfurt focuses on pressing global issues such as innovation for sustainable development, gender equality, climate change, and peace and security. UNH Model UN's preparation includes an in-depth study of historical forced migration, genocide, and the Holocaust. They are committed to using their experiences to educate and engage the UNH community and the wider public in discussions about these critical topics.
The official conference agenda includes visits to the Buchenwald Concentration Camp and Point Alpha, an important Cold War site. These visits will serve as invaluable first-hand learning experiences for this group of students. However, UNH Model United Nations plans to extend its stay to independently partner with an organization in Germany, to create an outreach project aligned with the values of the United Nations.
Educating in the Seacoast Region: Inspiring the Next Generation
The team from UNH, advised by Dr. Alynna Lyon, Faculty Advisor of Model United Nations and Professor of Political Science, will have gained enhanced diplomatic skills and a greater understanding of political dynamics and communication skills including public speaking and technical writing. The 2024 Model United Nations Conference for area high school students will be specifically run by the members who receive training and experience at the international conference. This will enable young minds to engage in the international discourse regarding pressing issues of genocide, forced migration, and power abuse, and will hopefully inspire a new generation of changemakers.
In essence, UNH MUN's journey is about diplomacy, global awareness, and community engagement. They're not just attending a conference; they're forging connections, sharing knowledge, and inspiring change.
Stay tuned for updates on their incredible journey!
Meet the UNH changemakers:
Anish Bhojwani '26
College: COLA (College of Liberal Arts)
Major: Undeclared
Caroline Cundy '24
College: CHHS (College of Health and Human Services)
Majors: Health Management/Policy, Women/Gender Studies
Minor: Political Science
Caroline Dishaw '26
College: COLA (College of Liberal Arts)
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs
Emma Spivak '25
College: COLA (College of Liberal Arts)
Majors: Political Science, Justice Studies
Gabriella Chianese '24, '25G
College: COLA/COLSA (College of Liberal Arts/College of Life Sciences and Agriculture)
Majors: Biomedical Sciences, Political Science
Graduate Studies: Molecular & Cellular Biotechnology
Shay Gillis '26
College: COLA (College of Liberal Arts)
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs
Minor: Spanish
Molly Tyle '26
College: COLA (College of Liberal Arts)
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
Minor: Computer Science
Andrei Chirila '25
College: COLA (College of Liberal Arts)
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
