On April 10, 2025, six Bow High School seniors—Anabelle Cattabriga, Trevor Abel, Mallory Hinck, Katie McCabe, Jonathan Gancarz, and Liam Miller—led a dynamic and inspiring workshop at the Innovations in Learning Conference, hosted by the New Hampshire School Administrators Association. These students were supported by Bow High School Social Studies teacher, Nick Watson and World Affairs Council of NH Events and Education Manager, Maheen Tariq. Their session centered on the importance of teaching diplomacy and global problem-solving through experiential learning, specifically highlighting their experiences with the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire’s diplomacy simulations.
The workshop provided a unique, student-led perspective on how diplomacy education can transform learning environments and prepare students for a rapidly changing world. Drawing from their participation in simulations such as Peacebuilding: The Challenge of Darfur, the students illustrated how these immersive activities require participants to grapple with real-world issues, understand multiple perspectives, and engage in critical negotiations.
Unlike traditional classroom settings, these simulations place students at the center of the action—tasked with resolving complex global dilemmas, drafting proposals, and navigating difficult conversations with empathy and precision. The students shared how these opportunities have helped them grow—not just academically, but also as leaders, communicators, and collaborators.
Throughout the session, the seniors walked participants through the structure of the simulations and the learning outcomes they achieved. They emphasized how the process requires a deep understanding of historical and political context, strategic thinking, and a commitment to respectful dialogue. They also reflected on the ways diplomacy simulations encourage students to listen actively, speak thoughtfully, and balance their own ideas with the goals of a broader group.
The partnership with the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire was a central theme of the presentation. The students explained how this collaboration gave them access to high-quality resources, expert guidance, and a platform to engage in real-world problem solving. It also helped foster a school culture that values global awareness and civic responsibility.
A highlight of the workshop was the student-led Q&A session, where they fielded thoughtful questions from educators, administrators, and community leaders. Their responses demonstrated a deep understanding of both the educational value of diplomacy simulations and the practical considerations for bringing these experiences to more classrooms across the state. The session served as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are trusted with meaningful roles in their own education. Through their leadership, preparation, and insight, these six seniors modeled the very skills they were promoting—collaboration, empathy, critical thinking, and diplomacy.
Their participation at the Innovations in Learning Conference not only celebrated their individual growth, but also underscored the importance of schools partnering with organizations like the World Affairs Council to bring transformative, globally relevant experiences to students across New Hampshire. As this workshop demonstrated, when students are given the tools to engage with the world, they don’t just learn—they lead.
By: Nick Watson, Bow High School Teacher & WACNH Board Member
