My PLATFORM

What does CIRA mean to you? To me, it embodies a core principle of UNC Chapel Hill: bringing people together. As Director of Campus Affairs, I will unite our organization and spark collaborative discussion about international relations and global politics. North Carolina is home to incredibly powerful discussions, and we will bring those front and center for our organization. 

My love of Model UN has been present since my first week of high school and remains strong to this day, with the UN being a large part of CIRA and international relations at large. Accordingly, I think the best way to outline my campaign is with a crisis-style directive.

WELLONS Initiative

W – WELCOMING the campus community to get involved in international relations through connecting different organizations across campus in debates, activities, and GBMs!

E – ENDORSEMENTS from many! I am incredibly passionate about our organizations goals, and I have been endorsed by a significant part of CIRA’s current executive team. Just this semester, I have worked directly with 41+ members of CIRA through CarolinaMUN, MoMUNtum, UNCMUNC, MUNCH, and more.

L – LASTING presence and events. CIRA is more than just Model UN, but let’s face it: it needs a stronger presence on campus. CIRA will hold CIRA specific events for the campus community each month to connect with fellow Tar Heels.

L – LIT events and socials! When we work hard as a team, we should celebrate the same way!!

O – OUTREACH to Tar Heels (and beyond!). So many people across Carolina’s beautiful campus care about global politics, but they haven’t found a meaningful outlet to contribute to the discussion. Advertising, tabling, communicating… these are all things you can expect to see from my office. Additionally, I plan to coordinate with External Affairs to ensure that some portion of these events and activities can be open to other local schools.

N – NECESSARY leader. It’s necessary for us to take this time to expand and grow CIRA itself — not just through its amazing branch organizations! CIRA has a vast history on our campus, and it can be strategically utilized to create forums for discussion, collaboration, and teamwork.

S – SMART choice for Campus Affairs. I bring a wealth of experience in bringing people together, from my time as an Eagle Scout, Model UN, Mock Trial (in high school) and more.

One of my top reasons for choosing Carolina was because of our commitment to international relations. Under my leadership, CIRA will connected and unite a wide variety of campus organizations to bring about positive change, experiences, and discussions to all at UNC. If you have any questions about my platform, feel free to email me at wellonsj@unc.edu!