The 62nd Annual Topeka Model United Nations Conference, held March 3 - 4, 2026, at the University of Kansas Student Memorial Union in Lawrence, brought together students from across the state for a two-day simulation of international diplomacy.
Participants represented countries from around the world, researching global issues, developing resolutions, and engaging in formal debate. Through this experience, students strengthened their critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the role of the United Nations and international relations.
Lansing High School participants included:
Security Council
Bruce Blankartz – Denmark
General Assembly I
Madeline Huhn – Turkey
Scarlett Bergman – Venezuela
Carmen McLilly – South Korea
General Assembly II
Bayne Yoakam – Afghanistan
Anna Brown – Colombia
Mia Jaskowiec – Greece
Laney Chastain – Liberia
Eliana Silva – Singapore
Students earned several individual honors for their work:
Bayne Yoakam received 1st Place Best Delegate in General Assembly II
Bruce Blankartz earned an Honorable Mention in Security Council
Eliana Silva had her resolution selected for debate, delivered an authorship speech, and successfully passed her resolution
Senior Bayne Yoakam reflected on the experience:
“Model UN has allowed me to pursue an interactive education in international relations that has taught me to understand our world on a level more than just reading the news. I truly hope that everyone can have this much fun learning about something they care about, and if you care about making a difference, Model UN is definitely for you.”
Congratulations to all the students who participated and to MUN Sponsor Julie Hinckley for her leadership!
