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History of WMIDMUN

The College of William & Mary

The College of William and Mary, one of the nation's premier state-assisted liberal arts universities, believes that excellence in teaching is the key to unlocking intellectual and personal possibilities for students. Dedicated to this philosophy and committed to limited enrollment, the College provides high-quality undergraduate, graduate and professional education that prepares students to make significant contributions to the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation. In recognition, the media have included William and Mary among the nation's prestigious "Public Ivys," and ranksd it first among state institutions in terms of commitment to teaching.

On February 8, 1693, The College of William and Mary received the first charter ever to be granted by the British Crown to a school in the American Colonies. The Charter was granted by William III and Mary II, King and Queen of England. The College severed its formal ties with Great Britain in 1776, and became state-supported in 1906. The College achieved modern university status in 1967. Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's premier academic honor society was founded at William and Mary, as was the first academic honor code, which was penned by Thomas Jefferson.

For more information on William and Mary, please refer to the College's web site.

Brief history of MUN

In the spirit of the UN, MUN simulations were designed to allow students to gain a better understanding of the global community. Putting aside regional, ethnic, or national biases, students are encouraged to follow a country's foreign policy and apply it to the contemporary issues. In committee sessions, students assume the responsibilities of actual diplomats as they work with each other to resolve problems, basing their decisions on their country's past and present acts.

Our Purpose

Founded in 2002 by the International Relations Club, the William and Mary Middle School Model United Nations Conference seeks to spread a general knowledge and appreciation of modern global politics and international relations to middle school students through simulation committee sessions, challenging forums of debate, and guidance by a knowledgeable staff. Building on the College's strong intellectual tradition, WMIDMUN is designed to provide young students with the opportunity to explore and develop their own thoughts regarding international relations. To this end, WMIDMUN strives to stimulate student understanding of global interactions and the eternal necessity for diplomacy as a tool to achieve peace.

The secretariat and staff of WMIDMUN does its best to introduce middle school students to the world of diplomacy in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Students are encouraged to develop communication skill in both large and small groups, research techniques, and leadership skills. Here, negotiation is key; it is the primary tool in conflict resolution, requiring delegates to overcome differences to facilitate a comprehensive and effective solution. It is our hope that by offering a professional, realistic, and fun environment, this conference will succeed in emphasizing the importance of diplomacy, cooperation, and compromise in the future leaders of tomorrow.