Become an Emerson Fellow
During the 11-month fellowship, Bill Emerson National Hunger Fellows develop a deep understanding of effective solutions to hunger and poverty, and their own roles in achieving Zero Hunger in the United States. Following orientation and field training in Washington, D.C., Emerson Fellows spend five months with community-based organizations throughout the United States. In mid-February fellows return to Washington for a second placement with organizations and government agencies focused on national anti-hunger and anti-poverty policy. Throughout the fellowship, fellows hone essential skills and form a strong professional cohort through in-person trainings, retreats, and professional development sessions.
The Field-to-Policy Bridge
Fellows' placements expose them to a variety of approaches to ending hunger at both the local, state, and federal level. Fellows' work can include research, evaluation, organizing, advocacy, outreach, and public education.
I have a great love for frontline service, but I also have this drive to connect this frontline service to systems change. The Hunger Fellowship was the first program that gave me the lens to say, these are two things to hold in balance. I really appreciate that exposure to the two—it gave me a sense that it would be possible to combine these things in the world.Liz Clasen-Kelly, Executive Director, Men's Shelter of Charlotte (Emerson Fellow, '00-'01)
Addressing Root Causes
We cannot fully eradicate hunger without first addressing the underlying conditions that drive it. Fellows work at their field and policy placements to address the root causes of hunger and poverty.
Learning Together
Each class of Emerson Fellows forms a powerful learning cohort, coming together at regular intervals during the fellowship for trainings, retreats, and professional development sessions. All trainings incorporate the Hunger Center’s Leadership Capabilities model, and enhance fellows’ ability to become effective agents for change.
Learn More
On Wednesday, December 11, we hosted an info session for prospective applicants all about the Bill Emerson National Hunger Fellowship, covering the basics of the program, what to expect, how to apply, and more.
Join Us
Ready to join our network of leaders in the movement to end hunger in the U.S.?
Applications for the 2025-2026 class of Emerson Fellows are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 class will open in fall 2025.
Make sure to sign up for our newsletter to get all the latest news about the Emerson Fellowship and the Congressional Hunger Center.
Join Us
Ready to join our network of leaders in the movement to end hunger in the U.S.?
We are now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 class of Emerson Fellows! The deadline to apply is January 17, 2025.
Read our program overview for prospective applicants to learn more about the fellowship, including selection criteria, application timeline, benefits, and much more.
Once you've read the guide, start your online application using the link below.
And make sure to sign up for our newsletter to get all the latest news about the Emerson Fellowship and the Congressional Hunger Center.
