Model Behavior 2026: Caroline Cook

Caroline Cook has a contagious enthusiasm that lights up every room she enters, making her the kind of volunteer every nonprofit dreams of having. Whether she’s selling real estate, encouraging women in recovery or speaking about her own journey of healing, Caroline approaches every opportunity with her own brand of lively energy, tender compassion and unwavering faith.

For the past five years, Caroline has devoted herself to The Next Door Recovery, where she serves on the board of directors and is in her second year as development committee chair. She also chaired the organization’s Annual Benefit Luncheon and helped guide its rebranding efforts. Yet one of her favorite roles happens far from the boardroom. Alongside her mother, she teaches Sketch and Pray, an art class that offers women in recovery a chance to create, connect and find hope.

Caroline’s passion is deeply personal. Having overcome an eating disorder, she understands the challenges of addiction and the possibility of lasting recovery. She chronicled her experience in her book, Hungry, and now travels throughout the region sharing her message of healing and freedom. She believes every woman deserves the chance to reclaim her life.

“The women at The Next Door Recovery are fighting for their lives and for their families,” she says. “They want a better future. They just need help getting there.”

That mission fuels her dedication to the organization, which served more than 1,200 women last year. The Next Door Recovery is one of the few programs in the Southeast that prioritizes treatment for pregnant women and mothers, providing comprehensive care regardless of a woman’s ability to pay. For Caroline, the impact extends well beyond each client, reaching children, families and future generations.

A wife of 28 years, mother of four, entrepreneur, author and speaker, Caroline admits she often takes on more than most people would attempt. But her greatest strength is her ability to inspire others to join her in serving those who need hope the most.

As Susan Weathersby, director of development for The Next Door Recovery, puts it, “Caroline inspires those around her to serve with greater compassion and purpose, and Nashville is better because of the way she lives her life every day.” 

Sweater: Oscar de la Renta button-side sweater (Gus Mayer)

Skirt: Oscar de la Renta palm print skirt (Gus Mayer)

Shoes: Model’s own

Earrings: Diamond baguette tableau earrings (Patricia Marie Fine Jewelry)

Necklace: Diamond link necklace (Patricia Marie Fine Jewelry)