CLEVELAND, Texas — A group of high school delegates from International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas) — students who call Colony Ridge Communities home — recently returned from New York City where they represented their community, their school, and the nation of Guyana on one of the most prestigious stages in student diplomacy: the National High School Model United Nations (NHSMUN) 2026 conference, hosted by the International Model United Nations Association.

The students debated alongside delegations from Italy, Venezuela, Argentina, Honduras, Mexico, and teams from California, Florida, New York, Washington, and beyond — distinguishing themselves not only through academic preparation, but through poise, confidence, and a commitment to global engagement that exceeded even the highest expectations.

Award of Excellence: The Highest Committee Honor

Colony Ridge is especially proud to recognize Victor Ucles and Santino Davalos of Liberty High School, who represented Guyana in the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS). Their delegation was awarded the Award of Excellence — the highest honor given by the committee — in recognition of their outstanding research, debate, and diplomacy throughout the conference.

Conference Highlights

Beyond the committee floor, the ILTexas delegates experienced a week of extraordinary moments:

• Attended a keynote address by Vice President Kamala Harris
• Engaged in international policy discussions with the Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations
• Networked with career diplomats and foreign policy professionals — walking away with confidence, professional connections, and LinkedIn profiles to match
• Experienced New York City for the very first time, including attending their first Broadway show

The NHSMUN conference, held annually in New York City, is one of the largest and most respected Model UN simulations in the world, drawing thousands of student delegates from across the globe. Participation requires rigorous preparation in international relations, public policy, parliamentary debate, and written diplomacy.

Colony Ridge Communities congratulates all ILTexas delegates on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to watching these future leaders continue to grow, serve, and make their mark — on their community, their country, and their world.

About Colony Ridge 
Colony Ridge is a residential land development company in Liberty County, Texas, offering affordable land ownership opportunities to families across the greater Houston area. It has developed one of the fastest-growing communities in Southeast Texas, the communities span multiple sections in Cleveland, TX, with a strong focus on building connections, supporting local businesses, and creating welcoming environments for residents and families throughout Liberty County.

About International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas)
International Leadership of Texas is a public charter school network serving students across the greater Houston and North Texas regions, with a mission to develop the next generation of ethical leaders through rigorous academics, character development, and global perspective.