Over the weekend of Feb 22–25, five FCC students and their faculty advisor traveled to Washington, DC to participate in the Model African Union, sponsored by Howard University.
 
Each participating university represents one or more Member State of the African Union. The Model represents a long-standing tradition of experiential learning, running for the 44 years under various names. 

Preparation began in September 2023. To prepare for the Model, students Larissa Ahanogbe, Jessica Bransome, Maimouna Diouf, Allison Rhea, and Zoe Theologou met with Dr. Lauren Lippiello to spend an hour each week studying the country of Tunisia and preparing resolutions. 

The Model begins with an embassy visit to the country the college is representing. FCC students, faculty, and staff visited the Tunisian Embassy on Thursday, Feb 22.  The First Secretary of Tunisia generously spent time briefing FCC students.

After the inaugural address at Howard University, FCC students were able to talk with keynote speaker Lieutenant General Yakuba A Drammeh (Rtd) of Gambia.

At the Model, students engaged in the language of diplomacy, advocating on behalf of Tunisia towards the achievement of the African Union Agenda 2063. An exceptional job was done by all! This year, the Model was featured on Voice of America (fast forward to minute 16:34).  

Congratulations to participating students Larissa Ahanogbe, Jessica Bransome, Maimouna Diouf, Allison Rhea, and Zoe Theologou! Next year’s team, which will represent Senegal, is forming now. If you would like to join the Model African Union team please contact faculty advisor Lauren Lippiello at [email protected].