Hi, delegates!

I’m Abby Vandesteeg, a sophomore at Deerfield High School. I was on the DHS Model UN team last year and I’m so excited to be doing it this year too. MUN truly is such an amazing experience and it’s been one of my favorite high school memories so far. Outside of MUN, I play the violin, tennis, and badminton, and I’m involved in both the Science Club and Medical Careers Club at DHS. In my free time, I love hanging out with my friends and watching movies.

In this committee, we will delve into some of NATO’s most pressing issues. The first topic, securing the Eastern Flank, is centered not only on traditional military defense but also on countering emerging threats, particularly those posed by Russia. The second topic, strengthening maritime security, will focus on developing multifaceted strategies to strengthen maritime defense, improve coordination among NATO member states, and adapt to modern threats. Both topics will require you to think strategically, prioritize cooperation, and find innovative ways to protect member states.

If you’re anything like me, I know you might be a little nervous about this upcoming committee, whether it's your first time or you’re an experienced delegate. As one of your chairs, I’m here to help guide you through the experience. My goal is to make sure everyone feels welcome, supported, and challenged, no matter their experience level. I encourage you to come up with creative solutions, draft well-written papers, collaborate with your peers, and participate in caucuses. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and step outside of your comfort zone. This is a great opportunity for you to practice your speaking and writing skills and improve as a delegate before high school. Remember to have fun!

I look forward to seeing your creativity and diplomacy in action! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] or either of my co-chairs.

Sincerely,
Abby Vandesteeg


Stephanie:

Hello Delegates!

I’m Stephanie Jiang. I’m a sophomore at Deerfield High School, and this will be my second year in Model UN here. I’m looking forward to co-chairing the NATO General Assembly at JAMUN III. Outside of MUN, I’m involved in the science club and Deerprints. I also enjoy reading and baking.

This year, during the North Atlantic Treaty Organization committee, we’ll discuss securing the Eastern Flank, where NATO faces increasing challenges in maintaining the stability of its Eastern European borders. Another issue is strengthening maritime security, as maritime domains are being disputed over, emphasizing naval cooperation and strong infrastructure. Together, these topics provide a challenge to NATO, calling for a solution to ensure collective defense across land and sea.

Do not worry if this is your first experience in JAMUN, as my co-chairs and I will be there to guide you. I encourage delegates to find a balance between national interests, diplomacy, and collaboration to create innovative proposals. I look forward to seeing your strong leadership, passionate debates, and problem-solving skills. I hope to see your progress throughout the conference, and please remember to come to the committee with an open mind!

If you have any questions, please reach out to me through my email: [email protected].

Alex:

Dear delegates and special guests,

My name is Alex Rechitsky and I am a Sophomore at Deerfield High School. I am so excited to be one of your chairs for the NATO General Assembly at the third JAMUN conference. This is my second year of Model UN at DHS. Some of my other hobbies include tennis, debate, and reading, especially about history.

During the NATO committee, we will choose to focus on one of two of NATO’s most pressing challenges: securing the Eastern Flank and/or strengthening maritime security. With rising tensions and the looming threat of Russia, you will have to find creative and collaborative solutions to protect member states while balancing your interests, defense spending, and cooperation.

While this may be overwhelming, don’t worry. As your chairs, we are here to guide you through any problems that may arise. We’re excited to see your ideas turn into reality as the situation evolves. Remember, the most important thing about Model UN is the knowledge you will gain from it. The skills you master through this experience, like thinking critically, understanding perspectives, and collaborating on real-world issues, will last you a lifetime. So be sure to come in with an open mind and a willingness to try new things.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected] or either of my esteemed co-chairs. I look forward to meeting all of you and hearing your wonderful ideas on how to best address some of our world’s most urgent issues.

Sincerely,
Alex Rechitsky

Documents