Avery Spranger, who joined #TeamHCDE as its first-ever civic engagement coordinator in February, travelled with 35 University of Houston students to Washington D.C. on Nov. 8-10 for the National Model Unites Nations conference. Spranger is a lecturer in the university’s Political Science Department and joined her students and hundreds from across the world to the oldest, largest and most diverse university-level model United Nations.

Students hone their skills in diplomacy, negotiation, critical thinking, compromise, public speaking and research. Conference highlights included eight simulated UN committees, keynote speakers and a crisis simulation in the security council.

“Immersive experiences are crucial for student learning and watching them grow through the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. was truly powerful,” Spranger said. “Advising students through this experience in civic engagement and diplomacy not only supports their success as students but also helps shape the future success of their generation.”

Through a grant from the Houston Endowment, a private foundation that supports local organizations’ efforts to improve systems and address the evolving needs of the Houston community, HCDE’s Civic Engagement team builds community partnerships and educates local students and families about government and policy.