David N. Redden, a visionary leader who served more than three decades on the boards of both Scenic Hudson and the Scenic Hudson Land Trust, passed away on May 11, 2024, after a long battle with ALS. David became Chair of the Scenic Hudson Board in 1993 and held that role through 1999 to ensure the transition from the leadership of Klara Sauer to Ned Sullivan. Under David’s leadership, Scenic Hudson achieved many major milestones – guiding the organization in opening flagship parks that are visited by tens of thousands of people each year and launching the organization’s farmland protection initiative, environmental education programs, and first website. He played a major role in securing Congressional designation of the Hudson Valley as a National Heritage Area and the Hudson River as an American Heritage River, and he was at the helm when Scenic Hudson persuaded the Dia Arts Foundation to select Beacon for its world-class collection of 20th-century art. David also held leadership roles with several Scenic Hudson partners, including the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, the Hudson Highlands Land Trust, Black Rock Forest Preserve, and The Olana Partnership.
On the occasion of his 75th birthday in 2023, leaders of Scenic Hudson presented David and his wife, Jeannette, with the Franny S. Reese Medal for their lifetimes of achievement and extraordinary contributions to the Hudson Valley. This honor, named for our founder, is conferred from time to time on those who demonstrate an understanding of – and commitment to – safeguarding the valley’s inspirational beauty and health for generations to come, with the spirit and passion that Franny exemplified. Scenic Hudson staff are humbled and privileged to have worked beside David Redden for so many years, and we will continue to honor his legacy.
