Students from across Minnesota and western Wisconsin will gather April 9-11 at the Minneapolis Marriott Hotel for the Model United Nations conference, where they will develop debate, diplomacy and collaboration skills while tackling global issues. Students will act as diplomats representing one of 193 countries. Delegates debate topics, form alliances, draft resolutions and propose solutions in a structured setting designed to mirror the real United Nations. Participants join delegations about a month in advance to research their assigned country and topic, gaining a deeper understanding of its perspectives and policies. SUMMIT also provides training sessions to help students prepare before the three-day conference in downtown Minneapolis. The club was formed at Stillwater last year by Siwon Youn, class of 2025, and Elizabeth Peloquin, a social studies teacher and club advisor, and attended the conference for the first time.
Model United Nations allows students to engage with government systems beyond the classroom while building practical skills. Peloquin, said students develop abilities in discussion, public speaking, research, critical thinking and collaboration. She said the experience pushes students to think quickly, respond to others’ ideas and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Jack Bodie, a senior who joined Model United Nations this year, said preparation plays a major role in the experience. “I’d like to know everything that I can about the country — their government type, human rights situation, economic status and alliances. All of the core ideas of what the U.N. represents,” he said. He said researching these topics helps him feel more confident when speaking and allows him to contribute more during debates and negotiations.
Model United Nations provides students with a low-stakes environment to explore global issues while developing valuable skills and relationships. Peloquin said the experience leaves a lasting impact on both students and advisors.
“That was one of the best experiences as a teacher I’ve ever had,” she said, reflecting on the previous year’s conference.
As the conference grows closer, participants become more excited to step into the role of delegates, meet new people as well as immerse themselves in the fast-paced environment of diplomacy. By combining problem-solving with collaboration, Model United Nations prepares students to engage thoughtfully with complex global issues beyond the classroom. Participants leave not only with stronger communication and critical thinking skills, but also with a broader perspective and meaningful connections that extend well beyond the conference.
