Many years ago, I, myself, was a Model UN delegate. In fact, my high school came to NHSMUN each year. To this day, I give credit to my faculty advisor, who has since become a dear friend, for getting me involved with Model UN, as it directly inspired me to pursue a career in foreign service.

Ambassador Jonathan R. CohenUS Mission to the United Nations

It’s great to welcome you to New York, and please know that we’re thrilled by what you are all doing. The next few days of your conference may be grueling, but push yourselves. Push yourselves, push yourselves. You are the next generation of leaders and we are counting on you to practice now and learn how to solve some of our world’s problems. And for that, we salute you.

Governor Kathy HochulNew York State Governor

We may be citizens of our sovereign countries, but more importantly, we’re also global citizens. This presents a tremendous responsibility for all of us. That’s why I commend you for being here at NHSMUN. You’ll use what you learn here in the real world; of this I’m certain — and sooner than you may think.

Charles (Chuck) HagelFrmr. U.S. Secretary of Defense

Networking, negotiation, compromise…this is the stuff that makes the world go around. You might not realize it until years from now, but the skills you’re learning here…they might be more important than anything you’ll ever study in a classroom.

Ambassador Susan RiceFormer US Ambassador to the UN; Former U.S. National Security Advisor