From Silver Spring to World Stage: Students Engage with Kamala Harris at Model United Nations Conference

Students from Silver Spring International Middle School took their learning to the global stage at the National High School Model United Nations (NHSMUN) 2026 in New York City, held March 13–16.

Joining more than 6,000 students from more than 70 countries, the delegation participated in a simulation of the United Nations, debating issues such as preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages in Tanzania, the conservation of migratory bat species in Chile and Romania’s historical position on the situation in the State of Katanga in 1962. Representing their assigned countries, students worked collaboratively to draft resolutions and build consensus, mirroring real-world diplomacy.

The conference capped months of preparation, including in-depth research and position papers. After arriving in New York, students participated in a mission briefing with Vadim Belloni, a diplomat with the Permanent Mission of Chile to the United Nations, gaining insight into global policymaking.

A highlight of the experience was the opening ceremony, featuring a keynote address by Kamala Harris, former Vice President of the United States. Two 8th grade students — Eric Stark and Luna Christensen — had their questions selected from thousands of submissions. They asked: “How can we, as students, do more to further policies and political action that we support?” and “What classes or activities in high school best helped prepare you for college and your future career?” Vice President Harris responded to both.

“When I found out, I was stunned,” Eric said. “Only 20 of 3,000 questions were chosen, and I never expected mine to be one of them.” His question was asked last. “I feared it would not be asked,” he said, but it was worth the wait. He added that Vice President Harris’ response, crediting drama classes for shaping her communication skills, gave him a new perspective as he prepares for high school.

Luna described the moment as “surreal,” noting that she didn’t fully grasp the magnitude at first. “My takeaway was that we have more power than we think,” she said. “Fighting against autocracy and authoritarianism is more than just voting, it's advocacy. Our power in technology and the influence it gives us is the true strength that we have in influencing what happens in our community, our country and the world.”

Beyond the conference, students experienced the energy and culture of New York while connecting with peers from around the globe. 

“Our students worked tirelessly — debating, writing resolutions and delivering impromptu speeches,” said teacher Delia Dunlap. “One committee chair even noted that the middle school delegates ‘held their ground and participated at the same level as the [high school] seniors.’ I’m incredibly proud of their perseverance, tenacity and resilience throughout this experience.”

Hosted in New York City, NHSMUN is organized by the International Model United Nations Association and is recognized for its academic rigor, cultural diversity and authentic diplomatic experience. 

"NHSMUN is a great experience for passionate MUN students,” said 8th grader Keira Oie. “You get to meet and debate people from all over the world and all walks of life.” 

Wren Gauthier, 8th grader, added: “NHSMUN was one of the best experiences of my life. The trip was amazing, the people were amazing, and the conference itself, while challenging, was the best conference I've ever been part of. It was an experience that will stick with me forever, and that I hope I will get to go back to in future years."