Isaac Celedon & Joey Engstrom, 2023 Innovation Award Finalists
Innovative Planning for the High School Model United Nations Program
Boise State students Isaac Celedon and Joey Engstrom directed the high school Model United Nations program at Boise State in January 2023. Neither of them had ever participated in the program, nor had they hosted a three-day conference for high schoolers before. This didn’t stop Celedon or Engstrom from organizing an incredible event, seeking out innovative solutions at every turn.
Celedon and Engstrom streamlined programming, marketing, travel, lodging, transportation, safety, and food needs. They organized 250+ students, teachers, and chaperones, managing each of their itineraries as participants arrived for the three-day event. Celedon and Engstrom worked with stakeholders including administrators, staff, school districts, the media, community partners, businesses, and local volunteers. These two students never flinched, and their innovation and dedication to the well-being and success of the participants and Boise State’s reputation was unparalleled.
Every moment was an experiment and a new way to problem-solve. They worked through challenging obstacles and left participants feeling valued and excited for the next year.