HWS News
6 December 2024 HWS Delegates Earned Top Awards at Model African Union Conference By SYDNEY HERBRUCK '25
HWS attends 27th Annual Southeast Model African Union Conference at Fort Valley State University in Georgia.
Hobart and William Smith’s Model African Union excelled at the Southeast Model African Union Conference this November, hosted by Fort Valley State University in Georgia. Representing Egypt and Morocco, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and preparation, earning top accolades and making a lasting impact on fellow participants. The team was led by club advisor Associate Professor of Dance and Movement Studies Kelly Johnson.
Three HWS delegates—Emily Cartegena ’25, Cori Chapman ’26 and Leah Foster ’25—received the prestigious Outstanding Delegate Award, the highest individual accolade at Model African Union conferences. Their achievement reflects their deep understanding of African politics, diplomacy and collaborative problem-solving. In addition, Chapman and Biruk Nardos ’25 worked as conference chairs, with Chimee Ezike ’25 serving as a vice chair.
HWS Model African Union
HWS MAU arrives in Atlanta, Georgia.
A commitee meeting in session.
Delegates participate in a committee meeting.
Emily Cartegena ’25 receives Most Outstanding Delegate award.
Leah Foster ’25 holds her Most Oustanding Delegate certificate.
Cori Chapman ’26 is named a Most Outstanding Delegate.
Associate Professor Kelly Johnson (top, right) joins Director of the SEMAU Conference Robert Dibie, the Ambassador of the Republic of Mozambique to the United States of America Fabião Nuvunga and faculty colleagues.
Associate Professor of Dance and Movement Studies Kelly Johnson holds a yoga session.
HWS faced off against teams from Kennesaw State University, Fort Valley State University, Georgia College and State University, Georgia Southern University and Albany State University.
Representing Egypt and Morocco across various committees, HWS students crafted draft resolutions aimed at gaining the support of a majority of fellow country delegates. The committees addressed topics such as democracy, governance, human rights, social issues, environmental and climate change, economic matters, executive council, and peace and security.
HWS Model African Union Vice President Leah Foster ’25 is proud of the team’s efforts. “We prepared for months, and even our first-time participants performed incredibly well. The experience brought us closer together and highlighted the unique bonds we share.”
In addition to attending the annual competition, students in HWS’ Model African Union program enroll in a specialized Reader’s College course, which deepens their knowledge of African diplomacy and governance.
Professor Johnson led a yoga workshop during the conference. “Professor Johnson’s yoga workshop during the conference was a beautiful reminder of her dedication to fostering both our intellectual and personal well-being,” says Foster.
