Dabel headshot

Emerson Fellow, Zero Hunger Intern

Jonathan Dabel

31st Class, 2024-2025, and 4th Class, 2021

Born in Boston, Jonathan spent his formative years in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, before returning to the U.S. in 2016. He earned a B.A. in Economics and Public Policy from the University of Mississippi, where he served as a student body senator and actively advocated for student needs. During his freshman year, Jonathan interned at the Congressional Hunger Center and later served as a Legacy Leader. His internships and projects have taken him to Washington D.C., Jackson, MS, and Miami, Florida, where he contributed to initiatives focused on community and economic development. Most recently, he presented his research on how food insecurity negatively impacts the upward mobility of undergraduate students at the University of Maryland and the University of Washington. Jonathan is passionate about creating transformative socioeconomic changes that contribute to making the world a more equitable place.

Field placement: Just Harvest

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Jonathan's time at Just Harvest will be spent on researching alternative models of grocery retail ownership to improve food access in underserved communities. His work will involve engaging with local stakeholders, reviewing existing grocery ownership models, and analyzing data to identify successful strategies. The ultimate goal of his research is to compile a comprehensive report that provides insights and recommendations for replicating effective models, which can guide future projects aimed at preserving community access to healthy food.


Jonathan was a 4th Class Zero Hunger Intern in 2021.

Internship Placement: Good Samaritan Center

Publications