High school delegates from across the region filled the halls at UW–Madison on March 19 and 20 for the 54th annual Wisconsin High School Model United Nations (WHSMUN) conference.
As the only Model UN event hosted within the UW System, WHSMUN continues its legacy as one of the most respected student-led conferences in the Midwest. The two-day schedule launched with committee sessions where students jumped straight into simulations of global governance.
Throughout day two, the energy stayed high through final simulations and advisor feedback, with a closing ceremony that celebrated the achievements of participating delegates.
A highlight of the closing ceremony was the presentation of the “Partner of the Year” award to the Institute for Regional and International Studies National Resource Center (IRIS NRC). IRIS NRC was awarded a plaque for its consistent support and collaboration, which helps provide the resources and expertise necessary to make this experience a success for high schoolers.
A team of UW–Madison undergraduates managed the proceedings, focusing on giving every delegate the best possible experience. Secretary-General Emmett Eilers noted that the conference has focused on providing a high-end educational environment since its inception in 1969. Having been involved with WHSMUN since 2023, he emphasized the blend of debate, negotiation, and improvisation that allows students to tackle modern global challenges head-on.
”The WHSMUN allows high schoolers from all across the state to come to Madison and participate in something they are passionate about,” said Eilers. “A program like this didn’t exist at my high school, so being able to create an environment that welcomes everyone and exposes them to international and historical issues is an honor. Just being able to walk around to see how the delegates interact with each other in their committees made all of our hard work pay off.”
WHSMUN serves as a direct reflection of the Wisconsin Idea, the principle that education should benefit the broader community. Visit the WHSMUN website to learn more and stay updated on next year’s event.
Story by Kayla Daum