East Hampton - Ross School students continue to enjoy great success at the Model United Nations conferences having taken home five awards at the most recent conference at Columbia University. Tenth grader Louis Caiola was named Outstanding Delegate, while Honorable Mention went to 10th graders Ian Combemale and Jack Brinkley-Cook, 11th grader Suna Garcia Guzman, and 12th grader Lorenzo Azevedo.

Caiola was named Outstanding Delegate for his work on France and her Colonies Post-World War II. After the war, France was in a state of reconstruction, and her colonies were essential in a quick recovery from German occupation. "My biggest achievements in the committee was establishing both colonies [Algeria and Vietnam] as protectorates while appeasing the populace with social reform in return for French access to foreign business and resources," he explained. Louis also held strict anti-communist policies, which improved France's relation with the U.S.

A long time history buff, Louis is fascinated by military strategy and conflict. "I've watched many WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War and Cold War documentaries since I was in middle school," he said. "I definitely felt proud of my work in my first Model UN Conference, and I remain optimistic about awards in future Model UN conferences."

Meanwhile, Honorable Mention went to Combemale and Brinkley-Cook for their work on the Organization of South American States. They argued two topics: the drug trade and innovation of alternative energy, both within the Americas. "I studied energy and my partner, Ian, studied the drug trade," said Jack. "We were able to prove all of our papers presented to the chair and the committee."

Suna received Honorable Mention for her work on Macbeth's Council: Thanes of Scotland, 1057. She was representing Banquo, Thane of Lochaber. The committee incorporated both elements from Shakespeare's play and also the historical narrative of Macbeth's Scotland. It focused on two crucial issues that Scotland faced during that time: the domestic landscape and the threats of England and the Vikings.

Suna has participated in two other MUN conferences but this was her first win. "When I heard my name mentioned I wasn't sure it was me; I had to turn to my friend who said, 'Suna, it's you! Go up there!' I bounced out of my seat and walked to the stage. After grasping what had happened when I returned, I was so happy!"

The final Honorable Mention went to Azevedo for his work on the South American Cartels. Lorenzo won Best Delegate last year at the same conference.

"It feels good to see students recognized for their hard work," said Ross cultural history teacher James Earle, who has supervised many Model UN conferences. He attributes the continued success of Ross Model UN students to the School's strong academic program. "Ross students are encouraged to talk a lot in class and voice their opinions. I think this makes them more confident going into their conferences," he said.

Model UN is an academic simulation of the United Nations that strives to educate students about civics, globalization, communication and diplomacy. Awards go to Best Delegate, Outstanding Delegate and Honorable Mention.