The TXSES Team

For more than three decades, Patrice “Pete” Parsons has been a leading advocate for sustainability and renewable energy across public service and the nonprofit sector. Her career reflects a deep commitment to collaboration, particularly through managing public–private partnerships that advance economic development and energy independence.

As Director of the Texas State Energy Conservation Office, Pete oversaw more than $200 million in grants and provided strategic leadership on issues related to climate change and renewable energy policy. She also served as spokesperson and advisor on climate, renewable energy, and the U.S. Clean Air Act Advisory Committee for the Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office. In her role as Regional Director for the South Central Region of ICLEI USA – Local Governments for Sustainability, Pete managed program and budget development, and developed Climate and Sustainability plans for 50 local governments.

Now, as Executive Director of the Texas Solar Energy Society (TXSES), Pete is dedicated to fulfilling the organization’s mission to educate, inspire, and empower every Texan to adopt solar energy as part of an equitable, 100% clean energy future.

Tamara joined TXSES with more than 15 years of experience in the environmental nonprofit sector, specializing in communications and project management. She brings a strong passion for solar energy—having installed panels on her own home—and extensive expertise in outreach, writing and editing, grant development, and chapter coordination. 

Before joining TXSES, Tamara served as Communications and Program Manager for the State of Texas Alliance for Recycling (STAR), where she led communications strategy and supported statewide initiatives to advance sustainability and resource recovery.

Elle is pursuing a degree in Philosophy at The University of Texas at Austin, with a Government minor and a Business Spanish certificate, and plans to build a career in international environmental law. She has interned for a global sustainable business consultancy based in London, conducted alternative energy research with the regulatory department of an energy engineering and consulting firm, and authored a senior thesis advocating for the adoption of a cap-and-trade system in the United States.

Elle is a published author with strong writing, public speaking, and renewable energy policy experience. She is also the Communications Officer for American Solar Energy’s policy division and is active in several organizations on her campus.