This distinction, named the UNIS Kofi Annan Award for Global Impact, will be given to a former UNIS student whose work exemplifies the dedication and spirit of the former Secretary-General who fostered peace, stability, and improved the welfare of the citizens of the world.

As Chair of UNIS’ Board of Trustees, and then again during his tenure as Secretary-General, H. E. Kofi Annan was deeply involved in the school’s mission and growth. He, along with his wife, Nane, visited the school many times to celebrate with our community, to host vital meetings at the school and the Secretariat, and to speak at student events, including our high school graduation ceremony in the UN General Assembly. By word and example, he represented the ideals that guide the instruction, the co-curricular initiatives, and the culture of UNIS as the school of the United Nations. 

He inspired our students to follow his example, to take to heart the important work he led, in his roles as Assistant Secretary-General, Under-Secretary-General, and as Secretary-General. During his tenure, extraordinary student-led events such as our UNIS Human Rights Conference and our UNIS-UN Conference, began and flourished respectively. 

Our award acknowledges the long and meaningful relationship that Secretary-General Annan has had with our school both as a Board Trustee and as Board Chair. It represents a wonderful opportunity to create a new institutional connection between alumni and the School that celebrates the enduring connection with the United Nations and its values, and in particular, Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

H.E. Annan was Chair of the UNIS Board of Trustees eight years, 1988-1994. He was also the keynote speaker at UNIS Graduation ceremonies in 1993, 1995, 1997, and 2006.H.E. Annan was Chair of the UNIS Board of Trustees eight years, 1988-1994. He was also the keynote speaker at UNIS Graduation ceremonies in 1993, 1995, 1997, and 2006.