Hoboken High School Redwing Delegates Excel at Annual Model UN Conference
Philadelphia, PA (Monday, March 9, 2026)— Students from Hoboken High School’s debate and Model United Nations program, under the direction of Mr. Steve D'Benado and Mr. Paul Huggins, recently participated in the annual PHILMUN Model United Nations Conference in Philadelphia. Representing Belgium, Canada, and Spain across four United Nations committees, the Redwing delegation demonstrated exceptional preparation, diplomacy, and leadership throughout the multi-day event.
Competing alongside students from schools across the region, Hoboken’s delegates engaged in formal debate, drafted resolutions, negotiated amendments, and collaborated with peers to address complex global challenges. Their efforts culminated in four students earning special recognition for their outstanding contributions.
Award-Winning Performance
Pria Wolsky and India Magaletta, representing Canada on the UN Human Rights Committee, along with Amelie Cademartori and Taryn Cannavale, representing Canada on the UN Development Program, were honored at the closing ceremony with the Most Improved Delegate Award. This distinction recognizes delegates who demonstrate notable growth in public speaking, diplomacy, collaboration, and policy analysis over the course of the conference.
Their achievement reflects not only individual dedication, but also the strength of Hoboken High School’s Model UN program and the mentorship provided by its faculty advisors.
Redwing Delegates by Committee
UN Human Rights Committee
Belgium: Yuval Segall and Rye Critelli
Canada: Pria Wolsky and India Magaletta
Spain: Alex Dallara
UN Development Program
Belgium: Charlotte Dobson and Anya Patel-Aranha
Canada: Amelie Cademartori and Taryn Cannavale
Spain: Evan Maloney and Rajan Grover
UN World Health Organization
Belgium: Violeta Martin and Seren Powell
Canada: Gabriella Brauner and Clover Jovais
Spain: Lola Fraceski and Julia Mylan
UN Population Fund
Belgium: Rohan Grover and Truman Pimsner
Canada: Serj Michael and Jonathan Offer
Spain: Lucas Daly and Cameron Daly
This year’s conference centered on sustainability and responsible development in the Asia-Pacific region. Delegates explored how nations can balance economic expansion with environmental stewardship, equitable healthcare access, and the protection of human rights.
“In many areas, economic and industrial growth has come at the expense of the region’s environmental output, with issues such as rising temperatures and deforestation threatening the entire region,” noted Rohan Patel, Secretary-General of the conference, in his opening remarks. His message set the tone for thoughtful debate and innovative problem-solving.
Hoboken students worked collaboratively to draft policy proposals addressing climate resilience, public health infrastructure, education access, and sustainable population growth. Through moderated caucuses and resolution writing, they practiced real-world skills in negotiation, consensus-building, and persuasive communication.
Participation in PHILMUN provided students with valuable experiential learning opportunities. Beyond strengthening research and public speaking skills, delegates gained a deeper understanding of international relations, diplomacy, and the complexities of multilateral decision-making.
Under the guidance of Mr. D'Benado and Mr. Huggins, the program emphasizes preparation, teamwork, and respectful discourse. Students dedicate weeks to researching their assigned countries’ positions, analyzing global data, and preparing policy solutions before arriving at the conference.
In addition to committee sessions, the Redwing delegates explored the city’s historic landmarks, visiting the iconic Liberty Bell and Reading Terminal Market—one of America’s oldest and most celebrated public markets—prior to the opening ceremonies. The experience connected classroom learning with the broader themes of democracy, civic engagement, and international cooperation.
The Hoboken High School debate and Model UN program looks forward to building on this year’s success as students prepare for future competitions and continue developing as globally minded leaders.