The College of the Canyons Model United Nations Club (COCMUN) received the highest award presented Sunday at a conference in Santa Barbara.

The team was awarded “Best Large Delegation” at the event, hosted by University of California Santa Barbara, edging out community colleges and 4-year universities from across the state.

“I recruit talented students who want to improve their leadership skills and try to create an environment in which they can succeed.” said Dr. Phil Gussin, the faculty advisor for the club. “Sometimes I provide guidance and push them. Other times, I get out of their way and marvel at their drive and determination.”

A total of 20 schools were in attendance, including 17 four-year universities and three community colleges. COC was awarded first place ahead of USC, which won “Outstanding Large Delegation.”

Other schools that participated in the conference included UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Merced, Loyola Marymount University and CSU Long Beach.

A total of eight awards were given to COC students including two “Best Delegate” recognitions, which equates to first place.

Model United Nations, also known as Model UN or MUN, is an extracurricular activity in which students typically role-play delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees.

This activity takes place at MUN conferences, and at the end of most conferences, the organizers recognized the delegates that have stood out in each committee, according to Best Delegate.

Awards are given out to the delegates that have knowledge of the subject, their ability to represent their assigned nation and their leadership skills.

Delegates need to meet all of this criteria while being diplomatic and staying true to their respective country’s position.

“We have some amazing students at College of the Canyons,” said Gussin. “It is my great honor to work with them.”

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