
From Great Bend High School forensics coach Kim Heath...
The Great Bend High School forensics team traveled to Wichita State for the Wichita Area Model United Nations conference on Friday, January 24, 2025. Approximately 150 students from Kansas and surrounding states attended the conference.
At Model UN conferences, students participate in simulations of United Nations sessions, debating, negotiating, caucusing, drafting, and voting on resolutions that address world problems. The conference elevates experiential learning to the highest level, giving participants hands-on insights into the politics of international affairs.
Fourteen Great Bend High School students represented five countries: India, Panama, Cuba, Vietnam, and South Korea. They participated in three different Model UN plenary committees. During the conference, the delegations discussed topics such as improvised explosive devices and the world drug trade. Individual and position paper awards were announced at the closing ceremonies.
Winning position papers adhere to the formatting instructions, exhibit excellent research and diplomatic writing, and are true to the country’s actual or likely positions. The Great Bend delegation from Panama and India each received awards. Zachary Hart, Kaden Taylor, Dixie Gallant, Majestic Maher, Reese King and Caleb Tudor researched and wrote the paper for Panama, while the outstanding paper for India was written and researched by Ella Nokes, Jordan Ochs, Kendra Scheideman, and Samantha Negaard.
Delegate Awards were also earned. Quinton Heath was named Outstanding Delegate for his work representing Cuba and Analeah Ochs received Honorable Mention honors. These awards are bestowed to delegates who have spoken eloquently and effectively throughout the conference, have displayed strong involvement in caucuses, and have actively contributed to the creation of a strong draft resolution.
This weekend the team will travel to Newton for forensics competitions. Congressional and Lincoln Douglas debate will take place on Friday, and individual events will compete on Saturday.