From April 6-10, the Salem College Model United Nations class competed in the National Model United Nations (NMUN) Week B Conference in New York City. A delegation of six students — along with three other classmates who were unable to attend — represented Salem College for the 49th year. Since January, the class had been preparing extensively, researching and role-playing as the delegation of Uzbekistan across a variety of United Nations committees.
Jessea James (C’ 2027) acted as the head delegate while also representing the General Assembly First Committee. Rubina Garamja Thapa (C’ 2028) and Audrey Harmon (C’ 2029), served as co-delegates in the General Assembly Second Committee. Raven Smith (C’ 2027) represented the General Assembly Third Committee, while Lauren Ringwood (C’ 2029) served in the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Maryem Hamdouni (C’ 2029) represented the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference (NPT).
The delegation’s efforts were supported by their classmates Madelyn Whitt, Sylvetta Swann, and Fenix Simecka, whose preparation and encouragement contributed meaningfully to the team’s success. Their faculty advisor, Professor Kate DeVriese’s, guidance was also instrumental throughout the process.
During brief interviews on the first day of the conference, head delegate James shared, “I’m really excited to see all the work that my delegates put in, and just see them do really well and shine.”
And shine they did. Despite its small size, the Salem College delegation was still recognized in two award categories by the end of the conference. The team received an Honorable Mention Delegation Award and was recognized with a round of applause at the United Nations Headquarters in Midtown Manhattan. Additionally, James and Hamdouni were honored for their outstanding position papers submitted prior to the conference. With institutions from around the world in attendance, these achievements represent a significant accomplishment.
With Salem’s long-standing tradition of participation — and with NMUN 2027 marking the conference’s 100th anniversary — the delegation looks forward to returning, continuing its legacy, and bringing further recognition of the Salem College community’s excellence.
