Meet Our University Ambassadors

Our University Ambassadors are passionate student leaders committed to advancing the mission of PA Fibershed on their campuses and in their communities.

Through our custom-designed curriculum, they’ll explore Pennsylvania’s local fiber and fashion systems, champion sustainable and ethical textile practices, and lead dynamic, campus-based initiatives that spark awareness and action.

Get to know each ambassador below, and follow their journey through our social media channels and monthly newsletters as they help grow a more connected, resilient textile future.

Learn about our Ambassadors:

Drexel University

Meita Fofana

Hi! I’m Meita Fofana, a junior at Drexel University majoring in Fashion Industry & Merchandising. I grew up in New Jersey and have had the opportunity to study in New York, Pennsylvania, and France. I really enjoy learning about the fashion industry and exploring sustainable initiatives that help inspire younger generations to make informed choices. Helping others through education and interactive events allows people to better understand the supply chain and the actions they can take. I’m most excited for upcoming projects in my courses and the chance to share ideas that support PA Fibershed's mission of sustainability and circular fashion through conversation and outreach.

Anna Cham

Hi name is Anna, I grew up in Silver Spring, MD. I am a Law and Political Science Double Major with Minors in Environmental Studies and Dance. I am most excited to work with an organization that mixes my two passions, Art (Fashion) and the Environment (Sustainability) together! As a pre-law student, I believe meaningful change can happen with innovation and grassroots advocacy for policies which support our local communities!

Caralina Bellwoar

Hello! My name is Caralina, I am a senior at Drexel University, studying Fashion Industry and Merchandising and I’m from West Chester PA. Through this ambassadorship, I’m most excited to learn from industry professionals and those passionate about reconnecting markets with the fabrics that make up their lives through their communities in a sustainable and eco-conscious way. Outside of Drexel I play tennis, read, and make art.

Ella Catanzaro

Ella Catanzaro is creating a custom designed major at Drexel University called Applied Sustainable Design and Technique. She is from Maryland and has always loved making things. As a fiber artist since a young age, she has dabbled almost a variety of different forms of the craft, but enjoys knitting and spinning the most. She is really excited to collaborate with new people and learn new things this year!

CJ Ryan

Hello, I’m CJ, a student at Drexel University studying Fashion Industry & Merchandising. I grew up in the North Jersey and have been interested in fashion from a young age. Ever since taking AP Environmental Science in high school, I’ve blended environmentalism into almost every part of my life, from what I eat, to how much I buy, to even how many lights I keep on at home. I’m passionate about finding ways to shift the fashion industry toward more sustainable practices and look forward to collaborating with others to make a real, positive impact.

Zayna Gilgeous

Hello! I am Zayna Gilgeous, a Fashion Design student at Drexel University. I grew up in PG County Maryland. This year I am most excited to be an active member in the PA Fibershed community to be apart of the change in creating a more sustainable fashion textile industry.

Thomas Jefferson University

Stephanie Lorenzo

My name is Stephanie Lorenzo and I’m a fashion design major with a minor in textile product science, currently studying at Thomas Jefferson University. I grew up in Philadelphia, where I developed a deep appreciation for both creativity and environmental responsibility. My work explores how design, sustainability, and science can intersect to create more ethical and regenerative systems in fashion. I'm especially passionate about exploring circular production and the role of storytelling in design. This year, I’m most excited to connect with local makers, support community education around fibersheds, and help bridge the gap between students and regional fiber systems.

Dimple Shivakumar

Hey! I’m Dimple, currently doing my Masters in Fashion Technology at Thomas Jefferson University. I grew up in India, where textiles, construction, and creativity were part of daily life—thanks to my mom’s fabric testing biz and my dad’s work in building design. I’m all about natural materials, playful textures, and finding beauty in the everyday—whether it’s a spice in the kitchen or a wildflower on the street. I love mixing craft with tech, and I’m super excited to be part of the PA Fibershed community this year. Can’t wait to dive into local fiber systems, meet fellow creatives, and work on fashion that’s rooted in purpose and planet.

Hanna Leopard-Davis

I am currently enrolled in Thomas Jefferson University, majoring in Textile Design. I became interested in textile design after taking a course in it at Community College of Philadelphia, where I went for Fashion Merchandising and Marketing.

I was born on the West Coast but have lived all over the world due to my dad being in the Army.

I am most excited for this year to learn more about textiles and see what the future has to hold.

I am a third-year student majoring in Textile Product Science at Thomas Jefferson University. I grew up in Newark, Delaware; however, I have always been in Pennsylvania and around the Philadelphia area. Over the last couple of years, I have worked with Delaware farmers, collaborated with Philly art curators, and made my own sustainable textile projects in efforts to be a part of the fibershed movement. I am excited to partner with Pa Fibershed as a student to familiarize sustainable textile options in the greater Philadelphia region in hopes of making great connections. I find great inspiration and motivation from eco-conscious work and activists, and can’t wait to bring what I have learned from my experiences to my school and local community

Maggie Robinson

Trisha Vanam

I grew up in a big joint family where creativity was always part of daily life. I studied at Delhi Public School, where I explored my love for fashion through fashion studies. I’ve completed my Bachelor’s in Fashion Design and am now pursuing my Master’s in Fashion Design Management at Thomas Jefferson University. I love fashion, dressing myself, and bringing a sense of uniqueness to the world through my style. I’m also passionate about sustainability and serve as a PA Fibershed University Student Ambassador, advocating for local and regenerative fashion systems. Outside of fashion, I enjoy dancing, art, and singing. This year, I’m most excited to step out of my comfort zone, participate in new opportunities, and share my creativity through extracurricular activities. I love taking on responsibilities and always strive to give my best.

Cristina de Jong

I'm a current master's student at Thomas Jefferson University studying Textile Engineering, and I'm originally from the Philly area (Malvern!). I did my undergrad at Johns Hopkins in Materials Science & Engineering, and worked on a startup while I was there focused on recycling polystyrene into fiber for commercial use in apparel - sparking my interest in sustainability in the fashion industry. I’m looking forward to getting to know the textile industry better, and working towards a local, circular textile economy within PA in the process!

Siana Rosini

Hi! I'm Siana Rosini, a senior Fashion Design student at Thomas Jefferson University in East Falls, Philadelphia. I grew up in Collegeville, PA, and I'm passionate about advancing sustainability and circular design in the textile and fashion industry. My work centers on upcycling, where I repurpose pre-existing textiles to craft unique pieces that respect the planet. I also specialize in clothing repair and work part-time for Sweet Peel Vintage, restoring decades-old garments through thoughtful care and craftsmanship.

Additionally, I assist with small batch production at Slow Fashion Academy, promoting sustainable and mindful fashion practices. I'm excited to join the PA Fibershed community and connect with others working toward a more ethical, transparent, and locally rooted textile economy. As a designer, I'm eager to engage with a mission that reflects my values — sustainability, community, and creating meaningful change.

Ella Cascone

Hi! My name is Ella Cascone, and I’m a senior at Thomas Jefferson University pursuing a B.S. in Fashion Design with a minor in Business. I’m originally from Lincroft, NJ. My academic background has helped me explore the intersection of design and business, providing a well-rounded understanding of both creative and commercial aspects of the fashion industry.

In addition to my studies, I’ve gained hands-on experience through various retail positions. These experiences have also fueled my passion for sustainability. I’m especially interested in education as a means of promoting sustainable practices, and my long-term goal is to lead upcycling and sustainable fashion workshops for children, helping to inspire the next generation to think consciously about design and consumption. I am excited to join the PA Fibershed team and help promote a sustainable, circular community.

Temple University

Chloe Hipwell

I’m a Marketing Major at Temple University. I grew up in Cheltenham, PA. I’m super excited to be apart of this program, to learn more, and meet and network with like minded people!