Students from the University of Nevada, Reno represented the Delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela during the 66th Annual Session of Model United Nations of the Far West in San Francisco earlier this month. Under the guidance of the University’s Associate Professor of Political Science Todd Smith and Luca Segura, students formed the Venezuelan’s negotiator team and presented several policy papers that dealt with matters discussed in General assembly, Security Council, 2nd and 3rd Committee, and Food and Agriculture Organization Committee. The papers framed under the common theme of "Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals," which hosted a large set of issues. Due to their excellent performance, they attained a Diplomacy Award for Outstanding Policy Papers.

The student team included Emma Briceño, Jackson Clague, Jeffrey Domínguez, Mike Kostak, Alana Ridge and Iris West. In addition to their award, the University team was also highlighted on the Model Nation’s Latest News section of its website.

“In the many years I have been involved with the Model United Nations, this is the first time I recall such recognition for the University,” Eric Herzik, chair, professor and undergraduate director of the political science department, said.

The Model United Nations of the Far West is one the oldest Model United Nations simulations in the world. It focuses on academic excellence, authenticity and emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of international relations and global issues. The theme for this year’s session was “Implementing the sustainable Development Goals,” and was chosen by the UN member’s states last year during the Conference of Parties, or Paris Climate Conference, which aims to create negotiations to achieve legally binding and universal agreement on climate.