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Capital Region Students Convene for 2nd Annual Model United Nations Conference at HVCC

duda@neonone.com — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:27:31 GMT

More than 200 high school students from across New York’s Capital Region will come together on Saturday, December 6, 2025, for the 2nd Annual Capital Region NY Model United Nations Conference (CRNYMUNC), a full-day immersive experience in global diplomacy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Hosted at Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC), CRNYMUNC is presented by the Shenendehowa Model UN Club in partnership with the International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR), with generous support from the Scotia Rotary Club.

Throughout the day, students will take part in realistic Model United Nations simulations, skills-building workshops, and student-led committee debates that mirror the complexities of international diplomacy. Notably, all CRNYMUNC 2025 committee topics were developed by participating high school students, highlighting youth leadership and ownership at the core of the conference.

Keynote Speaker

Participants will hear from Susanna Fessler, PhD, Interim Vice Provost and Dean, Center for International Education & Global Strategy, who will address the importance of global learning, diplomacy, and international engagement in today’s interconnected world.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Hudson Valley Community College, Bulmer Telecommunications Center, Troy, NY

Why It Matters

Now in its second year, CRNYMUNC has grown nearly tenfold, reflecting the Capital Region’s expanding commitment to global education and youth leadership. The conference provides students with hands-on experience in diplomacy, negotiation, public speaking, and critical thinking—skills essential for informed citizenship and future careers in an increasingly globalized world.

CRNYMUNC also exemplifies the power of regional collaboration among schools, higher education institutions, and community organizations working together to prepare the next generation of global leaders.

International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR) Presents Dumpling Making Workshop in partnership with the Chinese Community Center (CCC)

duda@neonone.com — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:12:22 GMT

The workshop as part of the Taste of the World Cooking Demonstration & Tasting Cultural Wellness Series sponsored by the Common Roots Foundation highlights ICCR’s mission to foster global understanding and cultural exchange across New York’s Capital Region through immersive, community-based programs. The CCC contributes its long-standing commitment to sharing cultural traditions with the broader community to foster connection, understanding, and celebration.

What: Dumpling Making Workshop: Taste of the World Cooking Demonstration & Tasting

Who: International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR), in partnership with the Chinese Community Center

Sponsored by: Common Roots Foundation

When: Saturday, January 10 at 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Where: Chinese Community Center 11 Avis Drive Latham, NY 12110

For More Information, Contact:

Beth Wales, Executive Director

Mobile: 518.928.4198

Email: info@iccralbany.org

About the International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR)

The mission of the International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit and non-partisan organization, is to cultivate professional, cultural, and social exchange and global thought leadership in our region. The Center is a Council member of the World Affairs Councils of America, a community-based member of the U.S. State Department's premiere International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), and a partner of the Congressional Office of International Leadership (COIL), whose mission is to inspire citizen diplomacy with global civic and political leaders through its Open World program.

Our work connects international delegates with their peers in our region to exchange best practices and strengthen mutual understanding. These programs give the area a unique opportunity to showcase its diversity, history, and unique assets with hundreds of countries and their emerging educational, government, nonprofit, and business leaders. For more information on the International Center of the Capital Region, visit https://iccralbany.org/ .

About the Chinese Community Center

Founded in 1973, the Chinese Community Center of the Capital District of New York (CCC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with more than five decades of dedicated service to the community. CCC is committed to fostering cultural exchange, lifelong learning, and community enrichment, with a mission to build friendship and unity through cultural, artistic, educational, and community service programs.

For over 50 years, CCC has actively promoted understanding and appreciation of Chinese heritage as a unique and valuable cultural legacy, supported the integration and civic participation of Chinese Americans within the broader community, and contributed to the rich cultural diversity of the Capital Region through sustained and meaningful community service. For more information, please visit www.cccalbany.org .

ICCR Celebrates Global Leadership and Community Impact at the 2025 Achievement Awards

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 04:30:42 GMT

On November 5, 2025 , the International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR) proudly hosted the 2025 ICCR Achievement Awards , an unforgettable afternoon honoring the resilience, leadership, and cultural contributions of individuals who immigrated to the Capital Region and are making our community stronger.

The Achievement Awards shine a spotlight on community leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and visionaries whose global journeys and local impact exemplify ICCR’s mission to build bridges through culture and kindness. Friends, partners, and supporters gathered to celebrate stories of perseverance, service, and leadership that enrich the social, civic, and economic fabric of our region.

2025 Event Co-Chairs

ICCR was honored to be guided by two distinguished community leaders whose work reflects the spirit of this event— globally inspired, locally rooted, and community-driven .

John Eberle
President & CEO, Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region
A respected advocate for compassion, inclusion, and philanthropic leadership, John Eberle has been a driving force in strengthening communities across the Capital Region.

Manoj Ajmera

Chairman, Festival of Nations
A longtime cultural ambassador, Manoj Ajmera has dedicated his life to promoting international friendship, cultural heritage, and cross-cultural understanding.

Master of Ceremonies

Tom Eschen

Anchor/Reporter, CBS6 News

With years of experience telling stories that matter to the Capital Region, Tom Eschen brought professionalism, warmth, and authenticity to the stage. His commitment to highlighting the people and organizations that strengthen our community made him an ideal host for the 2025 ICCR Achievement Awards.

2025 Honorees: Changemakers Who Inspire Global Understanding

ICCR proudly recognized honorees in five categories , each representing the power of immigrant leadership and service.

Business & Entrepreneurship

Honoring foreign-born community members who have created economic opportunity through innovation and enterprise.

Abrar Khan
Khan Realty & Management

Arriving in the United States from Hyderabad, Pakistan in 1968 at just 16 years old, Abrar Khan built a remarkable legacy rooted in vision, grit, and generosity. From purchasing his first property at age 18 to developing a portfolio of more than 90 residential and commercial properties across Albany, his entrepreneurial journey reflects resilience and ingenuity. A committed philanthropist and mentor, Abrar’s impact extends well beyond business—supporting refugee communities, historic preservation, and future generations of entrepreneurs.

Amina Karic, Esq.
Partner, LaFave, Wein, Frament & Karic

Originally from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Amina Karic has built a distinguished legal career advocating for individuals seeking justice. Fluent in multiple languages and deeply committed to community service, her work reflects both professional excellence and compassion. Through her legal practice and volunteerism, Amina exemplifies leadership grounded in service.

Community Service & Philanthropy

Honoring individuals who enhance community well-being through volunteerism and giving back.

Mohammad Jumma Barak
Founding Sponsor, Afghan American Community Center in Albany

Born in Afghanistan and immigrating to the U.S. in 1989, Mohammad Jumma Barak has dedicated his life to service, faith, and community leadership. A respected small business owner, he has also played a vital role in supporting refugee families and fostering interfaith dialogue. His leadership at Masjid As-Salam and commitment to unity and compassion continue to uplift countless families.

Civic Engagement & Citizenship

Honoring leadership in civic life, government, and community participation.

Jinah Ahn
Founder & Owner, Sunhee’s Farm & Kitchen and Sunhee’s Community Place

A Korean American raised in upstate New York, Jinah Ahn combines law, advocacy, and entrepreneurship to create inclusive community spaces. Through her farm-to-table restaurant and social enterprise, she has provided employment, education, and opportunity for immigrants while promoting cultural understanding. Her work reflects the powerful intersection of civic engagement and social innovation.

Distinguished Career

Honoring exceptional professional achievement and lasting impact.

Etwin Bowman
Retired, Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP), University at Albany

Born and raised in Barbados, Etwin Bowman devoted her career to education and youth empowerment. For nearly two decades, she led UAlbany’s STEP program, mentoring hundreds of underrepresented students toward careers in STEM and licensed professions. Her leadership, service, and advocacy continue to inspire generations of students and educators.

Volunteer Award

Honoring outstanding commitment to ICCR’s mission through volunteerism.

Peter G. Balint
Retired Executive

An immigrant, Holocaust survivor, U.S. Army Captain, and international business leader, Peter Balint has dedicated his life to service, education, and cultural exchange. Through decades of volunteer leadership and advocacy, Peter exemplifies ICCR’s mission of global understanding, lifelong learning, and community connection.

Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors

ICCR extends heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors whose support made the 2025 Achievement Awards possible.

Ambassador Sponsors
Envoy Sponsors
Diplomat Sponsors
Dr. Hsin-Pang (HP) Wang API Foundation

The 2025 ICCR Achievement Awards reminded us that our region’s strength lies in its diversity , and that immigrant stories are not just stories of arrival—but stories of leadership, service, and lasting impact. We are grateful to all who joined us in celebrating these extraordinary individuals and reaffirming our shared commitment to building bridges through culture and kindness.