November 2, 2006
St. Mary’s University this week will host the 10th annual Model Organization of American States Conference, an annual event sponsored by the World Affairs Council of San Antonio.
The Model Organization of American States is an exciting educational opportunity for college students to simulate the activities of the Organization of American States. Role playing allows students to gain a better understanding of the problems and complexities of relationships among the member nations, as well as develop problem-solving, consensus-building skills.
Throughout the three days of the conference, the students act as representatives from an assigned country in North or Latin America in simulated committee session where they must deal with issues such as drug interdiction, human rights, economic development and security. The conference reinforces San Antonio as a gateway to Central and South America, while preparing future leaders for inter-American affairs.
Universities from Texas, Oklahoma and Mexico will participate, including: St. Mary’s, Universidad de Monterrey, Texas State University, Palo Alto College, Baylor University, Howard Payne University, St. Edward’s University, Oral Roberts University, St. Philip’s University, San Antonio College, University of North Texas, University of the Incarnate Word, Universidad Regiomontana, and Northwest Vista College.
The conference opens Thursday evening and runs through Saturday in the St. Mary’s University Center. All events are open to the public. For a complete listing of events, visit http://www.wacofsa.org/MOAS/home.htm.