Our Team — PA FIbershed

Our Staff

Leslie Davidson, a Fashion Design graduate from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, initially entered the industry with a primary focus on design. However, upon experiencing the realities of the field, her dedication to sustainability and deep concern for the fashion industry's negative environmental impact prompted a transformative shift toward a career aimed at catalyzing systemic change.
Since 2017, she has transformed her passion into impactful action by centering her work around advocating for eco-friendly practices and circular economies spanning agriculture, fiber, and fashion. Her commitment extends to serving on the PA Sustainable Business Network Steering Committee, actively advocating for sustainable manufacturing in Pennsylvania
Throughout her career, her proficiency in creating efficient organizational systems has led to substantial revenue growth, while her knack for brand development and marketing has been instrumental in driving success for businesses and organizations, ultimately shaping her journey to where she is today.
As the Co-Founder of Pennsylvania Fibershed and the Executive Director of All Together Now PA, Leslie envisions a future where the fashion and textile industries seamlessly integrate with nature, promoting circular economy principles and empowering local communities.

Rachel Higgins, a passionate advocate for circular fashion, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the sustainable fashion movement. Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design & Merchandising from Drexel University and a Master's Degree of Professional Studies in Business of Fashion from LIM, she is well-prepared to drive change in the fashion industry.
Rachel's journey began with the creation and successful sale of her own children's clothing brand, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit. Her dedication to fashion education led her to a teaching position in the Design & Merchandising Program at Drexel University, where she imparts her insights and passion to the next generation of fashion professionals.
In addition to her role at Drexel, Rachel plays a crucial part in the Philadelphia fashion community. She leads the Sustainability Committee for the Philadelphia Fashion and Garments Task Force, contributing to sustainability initiatives in the local fashion industry. As a co-founder of PA Fibershed, she is instrumental in advancing sustainable and circular fashion practices, making a lasting impact on the industry and the community.

Tessa Coberly is a dynamic administrative professional with a passion for compassionate efficiency and strategic problem-solving. After working in operations and HR at a DC-based philanthropy management firm, she is proud to combine those professional skills with her passion for sustainability and all things fiber and textile at the Pennsylvania Fibershed.
Tessa is committed to crafting with yarn and fabric in a variety of ways. She is a skilled knitter, crochetter, and sewist, but she is most passionate about making clothes and home linens more long-lasting through mending, alteration, and creative enhancements.
Additionally, Tessa enjoys volunteering at her local community farm and on various citizen-science projects as a transcriber. Tessa earned a B.A. in Media Studies, along with Minors in International Studies and History from Penn State University.

Madi Napieralski is a recent Temple University grad with a degree in Advertising and a minor in Art Direction. With a passion for working with start-ups, she is drawn to the energy and innovation that characterizes these environments.
In addition to Madi’s entrepreneurial endeavors in Photography, advertising and marketing, she has channeled her creative energy into a cause she deeply believes in—sustainability. Over the past year, Madi has seamlessly integrated her passion for ethical practices into her role with Goddess Rising Intimates, strategizing over 10 campaigns to further educate on sustainable practices. Her unique perspective and dedication contribute not only to the success of the campaigns but also to the overall mission of creating environmentally friendly, luxurious lingerie.
In her collaborative efforts with Pennsylvania Fibershed, Madi Napieralski aims to leverage her skills and creativity to further the organization's goals. Through marketing and community building, she seeks to actively participate in creating positive change, promoting sustainability, and fostering a more environmentally conscious future for the textile and fashion landscape in Pennsylvania.