Hadley Hosford selected as 2026-2028 George B. Autry Fellow for Southern Policy and Research

We’re excited to announce that Hadley Hosford has been selected as MDC’s 2026-2028 George B. Autry Fellow for Southern Policy & Research. This selection followed a highly competitive selection process, with candidates evaluated through multiple stages based on their skills, experience, and alignment with the fellowship’s goals. Hadley recently completed a one-year position as a Dan Broun Program Associate with MDC. While we’re proud to see a familiar face step into the fellowship role, it’s important to note that this outcome was not assumed; instead, it reflects Hadley’s strong performance throughout the application and interview process.

Hadley is passionate about advancing accessibility and strengthening public assistance programs in the U.S. South. She has conducted research related to Medicaid reimbursement, tax policy, foster youth, food insecurity, disability justice, and environmental justice. She has met with North Carolina legislators to advocate for funding to support foreign language education opportunities for students. In undergrad, Hadley served as a Learning Assistant for Quantitative Analysis for Public Policy, supporting students learning statistical analysis and Stata. Hadley received a Master’s of Public Policy with a concentration in social policy and inequality from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in May 2026. She completed a BA in Public Policy and Global Studies from UNC-Chapel Hill in May 2025.

Hadley grew up in Leland, NC, and enjoys visiting farmers’ markets, reading, and spending time with her friends at the Eno River. She will start the Autry Fellowship in June 2026 and work full-time with MDC through May 2028.