By Meira Berkowitz, Staff Writer
On February 1 to 3, 2026, Yeshiva University hosted its 36th annual Model UN conference (YUNMUN) in Stamford, Connecticut. YUNMUN is a student-run simulation of the United Nations where participants act as delegates representing different countries, researching and advocating for their assigned nation’s policies while developing skills in global affairs, communication and critical thinking. To reflect on her time at the conference, the YU Observer spoke to Hannah Goldenberg (SCW ‘26), the Secretary General of YUNMUN XXXVI.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you became involved in YUNMUN?
I’m from Woodmere, NY. I attended Central and HAFTR for high school and participated in the YUNMUN conferences every year until I graduated. With four conferences under my belt, when I got to Stern I picked YUNMUN up again. In my first year, I served as an assistant chair, then as undersecretary general, and then this year as secretary general.
How would you define success for the delegates that participate in the YUNMUN conference?
I would define success at YUNMUN as successful collaboration. Many teens can get up and dominate in public speaking, but it’s truly essential for them to work with other people, listen, communicate effectively, make new friends and respect peers they may disagree with. Gaining those skills while simultaneously appreciating the beauty of Yeshiva University and all it has to offer is a successful YUNMUN for me.
What value does the YUNMUN conference carry, especially 36 years after its inception?
It is undeniable that YUNMUN allows high school teens to attain skills, growth and memories for a lifetime. These students get to present and own what they’ve been working so hard at for an entire year! It’s extremely valuable for teens to gain role models from both the Stern and YU students, for them to see that at YU we strive to make a kiddush Hashem in academics and extracurriculars, and explore Judaism in a deeper way than ever before. The religious and academic experience wrapped into one cohesive conference is truly valuable.
How would you define your role as Secretary General?
I pretty much oversee the entire conference and work very closely with admissions throughout. From selecting head staff, chairs and junior staff to assigning the high school students to their countries and committees. 335 students and their roles required oversight! I was responsible for scheduling and meetings, topic papers and sorting and the awesome staff Shabbos beforehand! So much preparation beforehand, and a lot of logistical management throughout the conference.
What was the most challenging and rewarding part of organizing and executing the conference?
The most challenging part of YUNMUN is how many details and components are included in the planning. I can barely count how many spreadsheets were made to organize every aspect of the conference. The most rewarding part of YUNMUN is to see the vision come to fruition. The positive feedback from both the junior staff and the participants tells me everything. If I’m happy with the turnout, that’s great but means nothing in comparison to hearing from the delegates directly. So many of them came over to me at the end of the conference to let me know how fulfilling and growthful and informative the conference was for them. That means everything!
Can you share the funniest experience you’ve had as Secretary General?
All YUNMUN shtick is the best of the best. If you know, you know.
What has your role as Secretary General taught you about Jewish leadership?
I’ve learned that Jewish leadership means setting the tone in a religious environment. The way I handle situations becomes the model for how others respond. From day one, I’ve tried to lead with the awareness that every action can reflect a kiddush Hashem, keeping that responsibility at the forefront of my mind and striving to consistently set a positive example. There’s so much room for influence — from delegates to chaperones to junior staff. I’ve learned that you can be a Jewish leader and focus on academics or world affairs, but if you lose sight of the kiddush Hashem and the meaningful relationships that come from an experience like this, then the purpose of the role is lost. For me, it’s about getting the job done and stepping up to responsibility — but always keeping Torah and mitzvot at the forefront.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
YUNMUN is an incredible experience for so many reasons. It’s meaningful for the teens because they get to hear YU and Stern students speak about their experiences and see firsthand what YU truly has to offer. Sometimes with extracurriculars on campus, it is very YU-student-focused and what one could get out of their own position. YUNMUN is unique because it is an opportunity to give back, to serve as a role model and uplift high school teens in a way they’ll remember for many years to come.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Hannah Goldenberg