Letter From The Secretary General

DeMUN I delegates and respective advisors,

My name is Marilyn Goodridge, and it is my profound honor to serve as Secretary-General for the inaugural DePaul Model United Nations Conference, DeMUN I. On April 5th, 2025, we will come together to engage in a transformative experience—one that I hope will inspire you as much as Model UN has inspired me.

Model United Nations has been more than an extracurricular for me—it has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional growth. It taught me to see the world not in black and white but in shades of nuance. Through countless debates, I’ve learned the importance of listening before speaking, of valuing collaboration over competition, and of understanding the stories behind every policy and position.

These lessons have shaped who I am today. They’ve given me the confidence to lead, the empathy to connect with others, and the courage to tackle challenges, no matter how complex they seem. My journey in Model UN started with a timid voice in a committee room, and over the years, it has grown into a passion for diplomacy and advocacy that I carry with me every day.

DeMUN I is a chance for all of you to embark on—or continue—your own journey. It’s a space where ideas are challenged, perspectives are broadened, and solutions are built. But beyond the resolutions and debates, this conference is about growth: growing as leaders, as thinkers, and as global citizens.

For those of you just starting out in Model UN, know that every step you take in this process matters. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, or explore new ideas. To our seasoned delegates, I encourage you to lead by example, pushing the boundaries of creativity and collaboration to inspire those around you.

This conference is the culmination of countless hours of effort by a team that believes deeply in the power of what we’re building here. We are creating not just a conference but a community—one that celebrates curiosity, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of understanding.

I am thrilled to welcome you to DePaul University this April and can’t wait to see the passion, innovation, and diplomacy you bring to our committees. If you have any questions or need guidance as we prepare for this incredible event, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, let’s make the inaugural DeMUN a memory and a milestone for us all.

Warm regards,

Marilyn Goodridge
Secretary-General
DePaul Model United Nations
mgoodri6@depaul.edu — (708) 990-1361