Letter from the Secretary-General

Dear Delegates, Sponsors, and Guests of GSMUN XXVIII, 

It is my distinct honor to invite you to the twenty-eight iteration of the Governor’s School Model United Nations Conference, held February 20-21, 2026, at Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School in Richmond, Virginia. 

For nearly three decades, GSMUN has provided an unparalleled experience of diplomacy and debate, inspiring students from across the nation to serve as global leaders. Each year, we open our doors to 500 diverse and passionate delegates, fostering a community of collaboration and cooperation unlike any other. As the premier high school Model UN conference in the region, GSMUN prides itself in its commitment to promoting civic engagement and global awareness. This year, GSMUN features 17 engaging committees, diverse in their time periods, locations, and topics. From the Pazzi Conspiracy to a Joint Crisis Committee on the Syrian Civil War, delegates will dive into the depths of some of the most fascinating topics from the past, present, and future. GSMUN XXVIII also features the prestigious Ad Hoc committee of the Secretary General, in which delegates will be tasked with developing solutions to a topic without prior research or preparation. 

For the twenty-eight iteration of GSMUN, I strongly encourage you to embody our theme, Be the spark behind the story. In a world where artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented speed, GSMUN encourages delegates to find personal connections and purpose in their leadership. By implementing our unique ideas, innovations, and solutions to the issues facing the world, we’ll shape leadership that personally impacts the lives of individuals from a multitude of backgrounds.

Each year, GSMUN serves as a vehicle for community change by supporting a charity that aligns with our theme. I am thrilled to announce that GSMUN XXVIII is supporting Make-a-Wish, an organization dedicated to providing life-changing opportunities for children with critical illnesses. Each wish that Make-a-Wish grants spreads hope and strength to children and unites communities. Moreover, each wish serves as a spark that leads to an incredible journey, shaping remarkable stories. I sincerely hope that you can help us in our goal of raising $10,000 for Make-a-Wish. 

Lastly, I would like to formally invite you to register for GSMUN XXVIII. In the coming months, this website will be updated with background guides, dossiers, and registration information, with early registration opening November 3rd. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or comments.

From attending GSMUN as a delegate five years ago, to chairing committees, to leading the conference today, I treasure GSMUN. Its people, purpose, and impact have all shaped me into the confident, considerate leader I am today, for which I am eternally grateful.

On behalf of the Secretariat and staff, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and appreciation. Your continued participation, support, and passion makes GSMUN possible each and every year. I look forward to seeing you in February.

Sincerely,

Deepanshi Kumar

Secretary-General, GSMUN XXVIII

gsmun.secgen@gmail.com