Saint Andrew’s Model UN Team Delivers Strong Showing at Largest MUN Conference in North America

Twenty students from Saint Andrew’s School’s Model United Nations (MUN) team had a dominant showing at the 63rd Annual North American Invitational Model United Nations (NAIMUN) Conference. Held in Washington, D.C., from February 11-15 and hosted by Georgetown University, NAIMUN stands as the oldest and largest MUN conference in North America, drawing over 3,200 participants from 227 schools worldwide.

Representing Saint Andrew’s were 20 Upper School students, led by Co-Team Leaders Bree Goggins ’26 and Quinn Morse ’26, and accompanied by faculty advisors Dr. Jason Schipper, Mrs. Veronica Guinazu, and Mr. David Fisher.

During the simulation, the majority of the Saint Andrew’s delegation was tasked with representing the nation of Chile. Other members took on specialized roles as historical political figures, including Claudia Quinta and Heide Simonis, within high-stakes Crisis Committees such as The Second Punic War and the German Reunification of 1989.

The team's diplomatic efforts spanned a vast array of global forums, from the World Bank and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to the National Diet of Japan. Throughout the weekend, students engaged in rigorous discussion, negotiation, and debate to devise solutions for complex international issues.

The Scots achieved an exceptional level of success in their committee sessions. The primary objective for any delegate is to serve as a Lead Signatory on a resolution approved by the entire committee, a feat accomplished by 16 of the 20 Saint Andrew’s participants. Furthermore, every one of the 20 team members served as a sponsor on an approved resolution, resulting in a 100% success rate for the delegation’s legislative contributions.

Beyond the conference rooms, the trip provided a rich cultural and educational experience. The team took full advantage of the capital’s landmarks, touring the International Spy Museum, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Archives, and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The group also enjoyed a visit to the Georgetown University campus and the historic DuPont Circle neighborhood.

Reflecting on the journey, participants described the trip as an invaluable social and cultural opportunity that strengthened their skills in leadership and global citizenship. The Saint Andrew’s Model UN team meets weekly to prepare for these simulations, and their performance in D.C. stands as a testament to their diligent preparation and commitment to excellence.

The 2026 NAIMUN Team: 

• Elan Beker ’28
• Dylan Bender ’27 
• Sienna Besner ’27 
• Giselle Bland ’27 
• Payton Cohen ’27
• Kiley Dahl ’27
• Bradley DiPaolo ’27
• Michael Dutton ’27, 
• Charlee Eisenberg ’27
• Bree Goggins ’26
• Diego Lombana ’27
• Caroline Martin ’27
• Quinn Morse ’26
• Sofia Olson ’26 
• Daniel Pal ’27 
• Alyssa Santiago ’27
• Izzy Shapiro ’27 
• Mia Sobel ’27
• Austin Wright ’28
• Alice Yuan ’26