UNAR’s Model UN Has its Biggest Year Ever

More than 500 students came to the St. John  University campus in Pittsford on March 8 for the 2024 Model UN sponsored by UNAR. Erin Moses, the conference coordinator, reported that the number of attendees may be the largest number ever. Just as important, those attending gave the gathering high marks.

“UNAR is a truly fantastic conference,” said Javier Benzan, a senior at Brockport High School and one of the conference leaders.

In all 38 schools were represented at the conference. Most were from the Rochester area, but several delegations came from the Syracuse and Utica areas, and Ithaca High School sent a delegation, as well.

Ananya Bobbala from Webster Thomas High School and one of the Secretariats for this year’s conference said of her expereince ““From start to finish, it immerses delegates in an enriching experience that engages them mentally and socially. It inspires delegates to become better public speakers, leaders, and people.”

In total the schools and their delegates represented more than 70 countries, debating as if they were delegates from the United Nations. In addition to their excellent work debating the relevant topics of our time, the attendees also contributed more than $2,000 for the Veterans Outreach Center in Rochester. A representative from the center spoke at the end of the day on Saturday.

Delegates will return to St. John Fisher on March 7 and 8, 2025, for next year’s conference.