New York, January 1, 2024 – On Saturday, March 2, 2024, the Metropolitan College of New York School for Public Affairs and Administration will host the prestigious 2024 NASPAA Simulation Competition. In collaboration with DMS Academy and the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), this international event will bring together graduate students worldwide for a virtual competition tackling policy issues associated with forced migration.

This year’s “Host Nations: A Refugee Simulation” simulation has been meticulously crafted by experts at DMS Academy using extensive real-world data. The web-based experiential learning tool places students in leadership roles such as Prime Minister, Minister of Labor, or Minister of Health and Human Services. Participants will work in teams to manage a simulated migrant influx, making decisions that impact their own country and those of other participating teams.

The competition will unfold at 12 global host sites, connecting students from diverse regions, including Bangladesh, Egypt, Brazil, Hungary, Nebraska, Texas, Michigan, and more. Teams will be evaluated based on simulation scores, negotiation skills, and presentations made to regional site judges. A panel of distinguished judges will determine the global winning teams, awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes of $3,000, $1,500, and $750, respectively.

“This simulation competition serves as a platform for students to apply their knowledge in a dynamic, real-world scenario. It challenges them to navigate complex policy issues surrounding forced migration, promoting critical thinking, collaboration, and effective decision-making,” said Dr. Hui-Yin Hsu, Dean for Academic Affairs at Metropolitan College of New York.

The Host Nations simulation has gained widespread recognition and has been utilized in NASPAA classrooms globally and by USAID to teach essential concepts about migration policy.

Who is hosting the event?

Teamwork makes the dream work! MPA Director Sophie Lee, Vice President Crookendale, Associate Dean Hahn, Dean Hsu and Associate Dean Frank from the #MCNY School for Public Affairs and Administration will host students and institutions from universities across the nation and China, Spain, Mexico and Indonesia for the #NASPAASIM2024 competition to solve “Global Refugee Management.” #MPA

Who are the judges?

Keith Grossman, EVP for Operations Support, Services, NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA)

Phil Nufrio, Professor Emeritus, Master of Public Administrative, MCNY

Julianne Pannelli, Director, NYC Asylum Seeker, Resource Navigation Center

Molly Schaeffer, Director of Asylum Seeker, Operations, NYC Office of the Mayor

Anita Sher, Assistant Commissioner, Readiness, NYC Emergency Management

Which Institutions are participating in the competition?

University of Albany

Carnegie Mellon University

Columbia University

Cornell University

University of Delaware

Georgia State University

Universidad Iberoamericana

John Jay College

Kean University

Marist College

Metropolitan College of New York

Rutgers University

Shanghai University of Finance

Villanova University

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Tina Georgiou 212-343-1234 ext. 2626, tgeorgiou@mcny.edu

About Metropolitan College of New York School for Public Affairs and Administration: Metropolitan College of New York is a leading educational institution committed to providing high-quality education and fostering a global perspective. Through innovative programs and collaborations, the college prepares students for leadership roles in public policy, affairs, and administration.

About NASPAA: The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is the global standard in public service education. It is the membership organization of graduate education programs in public policy, public affairs, public administration, and public & nonprofit management. Its over 300 members – located across the U.S. and in 24 countries around the globe – award MPA, MPP, MPAff, and similar degrees. NASPAA is the recognized global accreditor of master’s degree programs in these fields. 

About DMS Academy: DMS Academy offers educational programs focusing on desired futures and immersive learning experiences with real-life roles, real-world data, and specific cultural contexts. Their simulations are designed with future readiness skills such as critical thinking and decision-making for organizations engaged in leadership, governance and public service. Partnerships with universities offer tailored executive programs in foresight to stimulate innovation amidst complexity.