UN Week 2026 Features Keynote Speaker Monica Sharma

The Department of Diplomacy & World Affairs (DWA) offers a dynamic lineup of events, distinguished speakers, and an art exhibition, all aimed at increasing awareness of global issues among the Oxy community. Now approaching two decades of programming, the initiative-coordinated with ongoing support from Professor of Diplomacy & World Affairs Laura Hebert-has grown into a multi-day series that brings together academic inquiry, creative expression, and community dialogue. Building on its foundation of highlighting international challenges and the work of the United Nations, this year's program aims to foster campus-wide conversations around human rights, global cooperation, and social responsibility.

All events are free and open to the public, taking place across campus and designed to encourage participation from students of all backgrounds.

Monday, March 23

Art Installation: Global Mailbox, Johnson Hall Global Forum

This exhibit, which will be on display throughout UN Week, is centered on letters that highlight issues impacting people in places outside of the US mainland, written by the very people living through them. Participants were asked to send in anonymous letters to Oxy students written about any issue they care about that is impacting their community.

UN Week Quad Fair , Oxy Quad, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

We welcome the Oxy community to join us in celebrating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations! This event aims to showcase the projects of Oxy clubs and organizations whose work embodies the values of the UN, including human rights, peace, sustainability, multiculturalism, and development.

UN Trivia Nights and Bites , Johnson Hall Global Forum, 7:30-9 p.m.

Diplomacy and World Affairs Student Association (DWAMA) will host a UN-themed trivia night open to all majors! Students can participate as individuals or in groups. We will be serving Colorado donuts, so bring your friends and join in the fun!

Tuesday, March 24

International Crisis Simulation , Varelas Lab (Johnson Hall 103), 6:30-7:30 p.m.

This event will involve responding to crisis updates based on real-world challenges facing the UN and international community while representing country delegations. Attendees will have the opportunity to draft short recommendations based on their country's position while learning about current issues in an engaging setting. Whether you loved the DWA 101 simulation or never had the chance to try it, this event is for you!

Borders and Cages , Choi Auditorium (Johnson Hall), 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Co-sponsored with the Intercultural Community Center, this panel is designed to be a space for honest, urgent dialogue about the impacts of ICE presence, policing, detention centers, prisons, and their effects on racial and social inequalities. We will also have a community conversation about how we can stay informed, engaged, and active in addressing these pressing issues. Featuring Richie Reseda, Alyshia Tuyet Gonzalez, Mariella Saba, Andrea Ibarra, and Professor Marisol León.

Wednesday, March 25

Keynote Event with Dr. Monica Sharma: " The UN, People, and Our Responsibility Towards a Flourishing Future," Johnson Hall Global Forum

A pre-keynote reception will begin at 5:15 p.m., the keynote event begins at 6 p.m.

Even with the financial crisis faced by the UN system today, it represents our dream for a flourishing future. While the UN 80 Initiative attempts to address the impacts of the crisis on UN agencies, we may find pathways for a flourishing in the midst of turmoil when we explore better design for better results. What does it take to transform unworkable systems and cultural norms? Dr. Sharma will share stories of courage, commitment and creativity from around the world- the adventure of overcoming challenges!

Trained as a physician and epidemiologist, Dr. Monica Sharma worked for the UN for more than twenty years. As Director of Leadership and Capacity Development and in UNDP and UNICEF, she designed and directed programs for whole systems transformation and leadership development worldwide. She is currently an international practitioner and expert on leadership development for equitable and sustainable change for a range of institutions, including at the UN. Dr. Sharma is also the author of the award winning book, Radical Transformational Leadership: Strategic Action for Change Agents.

Thursday, March 26

Oxy-at-the-UN Alumni Panel & Reception , Johnson Hall Global Forum, 5-7 p.m.

Join us for a panel featuring the experiences of Fall 2025 Kahane UN Program participants, followed by a reception.

Global Dance Night , 9:30-10:30 p.m. in the Alumni Gym Dance Studio

PULSE and INTOXY are collaborating with the DWA department's UN Week to put on Global Dance Night, a new dance showcase dedicated to celebrating dance styles from all around the world! Come out to support your Oxy peers and global art!