A long history of Model UN at Central Michigan University

Model UN engages hundreds of thousands of students worldwide each year, offering hands-on opportunities to learn about the principles and functions of the United Nations. Many current leaders in law, government, business, and the arts got their start in Model UN as students.

Model UN at Central Michigan University has grown over the years due to the hard work and dedication of faculty members including Henry Han, Delbert Ringquist and currently David Jesuit, Political Science Professor in the School of Politics, Society, Justice and Public Service.

We share with you a look back at the rich history of Model UN at Central Michigan University.

1960s

It all started in 1962, when the CMU International Relations Club sent delegates to the Model UN session at the University of Minnesota.

In 1969-70, there was an effort made by Dr. Henry Han, CMU Political Science Professor, to establish a Model UN group. A proposal was presented in 1969 to create Model UN at CMU. In 1970, the Model UN group took part in the Mid-America Model United Nations which was held in Indiana.

1970s

In 1977, there was a course offered called Colloquium in UN Affairs. This course was offered through 1996. In the spring of 1978, there was the first mention of the Model UN club. The first time the club appears in the CMU yearbook is 1985.

In 1988, Model UN won their first award at a National Conference advised by  Dr. Delbert Ringquist, CMU Political Science Professor. 

2000s

In 2004, Dr. David Jesuit formed a Model UN Class and was the instructor.

Currently at CMU, Model UN is both a set of academic courses and a registered student organization (RSO). Students take part in face-to-face classes with a lab component focused on practicing diplomacy. CMU offers three Model UN courses, with PSC 355 featuring travel to Chicago in the fall and New York in the spring to participate in national simulations. One year, they participated in a conference in Canada.

The CMU Model UN teams have earned several awards throughout the years, such as distinguished delegation award, and overall best delegation.

Over time, the program has expanded to include international partnership with hosting students from Japan, traveling to Galapagos Islands and outreach efforts like CHIPMUN, a Model UN simulation designed for high school students.

Professor Henry Han passed away in 2017. He was a professor at CMU for 33 years studying International and Constitutional Law. Professor Delbert Ringquist passed away in 2025 after 44 years of service to CMU which he was known for leading Model UN teams to receive repeated national recognition under his leadership.

If you would like to make a gift to support the CMU Model UN, please visit the Central Michigan University Ways to Give website.