At 7:30 on a Wednesday morning, the ARC buzzes with excitement. The air is filled with the clicking of Chromebooks and humming of busy conversation as the members of Model UN prepare for their upcoming conference. Nyssa Beckwith, social studies teacher, makes her way around the room, stopping to help students with their research.

 “Students mostly run it but I’m constantly talking … and interacting with them,” Beckwith said. “[I] give advice on what [students] could do better and I … compliment [them for things] they’re doing well. I’m basically just here to facilitate everything else.”

Last year, Beckwith was the assistant advisor of Model UN. After previous advisor Terrence Jozwik retired, she took over.

“Last year [I was just], was kind of just observing, watching; I was really [trying to learn] what MUN was,” Beckwith said. “This year I’m able to [help] put my stamp on what helps the club grow.”

Beckwith was a long term substitute before she came to South. She explains that since she only held positions for three or four months at a school, she couldn’t get very involved with extracurricular activities. So when there was an open position with Model UN, she took the opportunity to get involved.

“Jozwick was the former department chair two years ago, and he [was in charge of] Model UN,” Beckwith said. “He needed somebody to take over after he left … and it seemed to go along with Social Studies very well. So when he asked if I had an interest, … I said yes.”

Senior Mateusz Odziomek, Model UN research coach, has been in Model UN since his sophomore year, so he’s experienced the transition from Jozwik to Beckwith.

“Both of them are really passionate about MUN,” Odziomek said. “[They] have always gotten really involved and are [eager to] help kids with whatever they need.”

Senior Katie Roberts, Model UN Co-President, is a three year veteran of the team. Roberts got involved after Jozwik came into her freshman World History Honors class and saw her give a presentation. Roberts claims Beckwith is the right person for the job.

“[Ms. Beckwith] understands … the content that we’re talking about, so I’d say her training last year equipped her well for running it this year,” Roberts said.

Principal of GBS, Dr. Lauren Fagel, fully supports Beckwith’s transition to advisor of the team and expresses her hope for the team’s success with her at the helm.

“I have complete confidence in Ms. Beckwith’s abilities as a head advisor for GBS MUN,” Fagel said. “She is dedicated to the continued success of the team, and she loves working and learning with students.”