MESA, Ariz. – Feb. 24, 2026 – Mesa Community College (MCC) sponsored the Sonoran Desert Conference, the 28th annual Model United Nations (UN) simulation for high school students. One of Arizona's largest student-run events, the two-day conference, held Feb. 13-14, 2026 at the college's Southern and Dobson Campus, brought together 400 high school students from 21 schools across Arizona to engage in UN-style simulations. 

The event encouraged students to debate global issues, strengthening their skills in negotiation, diplomacy and foreign policy. The event provides strong preparation for professional careers in international relations. 

“This conference offers students the opportunity to step into global leadership roles and engage in real-world conversations,” said Brian Dille, MCC Political Science faculty and Model UN program director. “Students build critical leadership and debate skills that will benefit them in college and in their future careers.”

The conference used a simplified form of the Model United Nations Far West (MUNFW) procedural rules for debate and focused on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Students simulated the General Assembly, First Committee, Third Committee, Commission on the Status of Women, UN Environment Assembly, Commission on Science and Technology for Development, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, International Court of Justice, Security Council and World Press. 

The conference was led by Secretary General, Sascha Reverón – a high school student at Chandler High School. The event also featured two notable speakers, Dr. Victoria Iyamba and Dr. Racquel Armstrong. Dr. Iyamba works with organizations to navigate change through workforce transformation and technology modernization, and Dr. Armstrong is a former teacher, school administrator, cancer survivor and a current professor of education at Arizona State University who is running to become the next State Representative for Chandler, Sun Lakes and Gilbert.

To learn more about MCC’s Political Science program and Model UN on the college’s website, mesacc.edu, or email brian.dille@mesacc.edu.

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Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving more than 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. MCC serves as a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest Indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges, supporting students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education, training and undergraduate research opportunities. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu/newsroom.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.