Model Behavior 2026: Alice Hudson Pell

Alice Hudson Pell has always fostered a deep connection with her natural surroundings — one she believes is vital. She understands the physical, mental and communal benefits of roaming parks, open spaces and wild lands. “We are a part of our ecosystem, and it is part of us,” she says. “So much healing happens outside.” 

This passion brought her to TennGreen Land Conservancy in 2014, where she now serves as executive director. TennGreen is the state’s oldest accredited statewide land conservancy, protecting private land and public parks from demolition and development since 1998. Alice’s involvement is key to the organization’s mission — ensuring that conservation’s impact is eternal. 

“Conservation of Tennessee’s natural treasures is forever, and forever is a wild idea — one that requires a new way of thinking,” she says. “Working at TennGreen allows me to balance the day-to-day work of leading an organization while helping ensure that the places we protect today will still be conserved hundreds of years from now.” 

Alice thrives when solving problems without obvious solutions and helping each person realize the role they play in preserving Tennessee’s green spaces. This drives her to expand outreach programs, dream up creative fundraisers and help people connect more deeply with their work.

In the same vein, Alice created TennGreen’s Hike-a-Thon following the COVID-19 pandemic. The fundraiser invites patrons to hike around the globe and compete in friendly outdoor challenges — experiencing the benefits of conservation, rather than just supporting it. 

In its record-breaking sixth year, the Hike-a-Thon attracted 1,398 participants, raised over $300,000 and logged 17,836 miles across 41 states and 13 countries. “One of the things I’m most proud of is helping people see that conservation isn’t something reserved for scientists or outdoor experts,” says Alice. “My goal has always been to create opportunities for people to connect with the land in ways that are meaningful to them.”

Outside the office, Alice stays involved in other nonprofits. She currently serves on the Metro Parks board, the Nashville Parks Foundation board and the Cumberland Trail Conservancy advisory board. She also welcomes foster cats and kittens into her home through Pawster. 

Through her work at TennGreen and beyond, Alice aims to preserve our green spaces into tomorrow. “We may not know where and how humanity will be 500 years from today,” she says. “But our protected lands and the promises that we make today will still need to be upheld.” 

Dress: ERDEM floral appliqué dress (Gus Mayer)

Earrings: Model’s own

Bracelet: Hinged circle cuff (Patricia Marie Fine Jewelry)

Ring: Diamond three band ring (Patricia Marie Fine Jewelry)