Model UN Team Shines at Conference, Bringing Home Seven Awards

The Rumson Country Day School’s Model United Nations team delivered a standout performance, earning seven awards, at the annual conference hosted by Christian Brothers Academy. Competing against hundreds of students from 15 other middle schools from across the region, the fourteen-member RCDS Model UN team impressed judges with their confidence, preparation, and commitment to the School’s Four Pillars—Kind, Honest, Responsible, and Respectful.

From space diplomacy to papal decision-making and biotechnology ethics, RCDS students tackled some of the conference’s most challenging committees with enthusiasm, knowledge, and skill.

RCDS delegates were recognized with the following awards:

• Stefan G., Outstanding Position Paper Award (Biotechnology, representing Denmark)
• Saif K., Best Position Paper (Stefano Domenicali, F-1 Board of Directors, Council on Governments and Sustainability)
• Melina M., Honorable Mention Delegate (Percy Jackson committee, representing Annabeth Chase)
• Alex M., Best Delegate (Office of Outer Space Affairs, representing Denmark)
• Ella R., Outstanding Delegate and Honorable Mention Position Paper (OOSA, representing the United States)
• Marc R., Outstanding Position Paper (Papal Conclave, portraying Cardinal Robert Sarah)

The team’s impressive results reflect a thoughtful, student-driven preparation process that began in September. Advisors Patrick Angeloni, Jeff Utz, and Dakota Woodham guided students through weeks of structured but independent research that went far beyond the provided materials. Students dove into historical context, national policy positions, and “character” backgrounds. Many created binders, organized extensive notes, and wrote their required position papers while balancing regular homework, sports, and after-school commitments. Experienced eighth graders mentored newcomers, offering practical advice on organizing research and preparing to speak confidently in front of a room full of unfamiliar faces.

“The conference encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, collaborate with others respectfully, and engage deeply with relevant real-world topics,” said Model UN Advisor Patrick Angeloni. “Every year, I leave feeling even more proud than the year before. Watching our students work hard, watching them lead, and light up while doing it all; It is incredibly rewarding.”

Interest in the program has grown each year, and students have already begun asking about adding future conferences at neighboring schools.

“I look forward to seeing the Model UN program continue to grow and inspire the next generation of global thinkers and leaders,” said Mr. Angeloni.