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Middle School ProgramsMiddle School Programs
Important Dates and Reminders

Tuesday, December 15 — Student Diplomat Philadelphia Museum of Art visit

Wednesday, January 6 — Student Diplomat Philadelphia Museum of Art visit

Tuesday, January 19 — Student Diplomat Philadelphia Museum of Art visit

Wednesday, January 20 — Student Diplomat Philadelphia Museum of Art visit

Thursday, January 21 — Student Diplomat Philadelphia Museum of Art visit

Monday, March 22 — Student Diplomat Prep Conference, Perelman Quad, University of Pennsylvania

Tuesday, March 23 — Student Diplomat Prep Conference, Perelman Quad, University of Pennsylvania

Tuesday, May 4 — Student Diplomat Final Conference, Perelman Quad, University of Pennsylvania

Wednesday, May 5 — Student Diplomat Final Conference, Perelman Quad, University of Pennsylvania

Visit the main education calendar for more events and dates.

NEW! Our 2010 Student Diplomat handbook for teachers is now available!

William R. Sasso Student Diplomat Program for Middle Schools

By participating in a year-long, comprehensive journey into the world of international relations and diplomacy, middle school students gain an understanding of culture, current international affairs and the United Nations. Whether they are working in the classroom or traveling to local museums and universities as part of the program, students learn to think critically about global issues as well as develop key leadership skills such as public speaking and team-building. Currently, we work with over 600 students and 30 schools from all over the region. Participating students take part in the following programs and activities.

Cultural Diplomacy Program at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Cultural Diplomacy Program at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

What better way to fully grasp the connection between cultural understanding and diplomacy than to spend a day surrounded by incredible art contributed by various cultures. Students visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where they learn about cultural diplomacy, both through interactive lecture and by touring exhibits, including a modern Japanese Teahouse and an ancient Indian Temple. Students gain a perspective on other cultures and an understanding of what others see as meaningful and important.


Student Diplomat Preparatory Conference
Student Diplomat Preparatory Conference

As they continue their introduction into the world of diplomacy and international affairs, students attend a full-day session at the University of Pennsylvania. The Council brings academics and other expert speakers to discuss Junior Model United Nations topics such as global warming, global poverty, and refugees. Students also learn about resolution writing, preparing for the Junior Model United Nations day, and tips on how to be dynamic and persuasive.


Junior Model United Nations Conference
Junior Model United Nations Conference

Now that they are prepared and ready for the big event, students return to the University of Pennsylvania for a full-day simulation of the Unted Nations General Assembly. Using the skills they have acquired throughout the year, each young man and woman gets a chance to showcase their talent and leadership skills as they role-play delegates, participate in lively debate and vote on resolutions they previously crafted.


Classroom Activities
Classroom Activities

The Student Diplomat Program is a comprehensive year-long project. The Council works closely with all of our teachers throughout the year to make sure they have all the resources needed to create a successful and enriching experience! Explore our classroom resources.




For more information about our education programs, please contact our Associate Director of Education, Kayla Haidara, at 215-561-4700, ext. 216.