Our Staff
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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.
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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.
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Amy Kostelansky-Rafinski has spent over 15 years in the textile and apparel industry, working across design, product development, production management, process operations, and corporate responsibility. After years in large-scale apparel production, she returned to school to earn a Master of Science in Sustainable Management, driven by a desire to help solve some of the industry’s most pressing challenges. She has worked on initiatives ranging from B Corp certification consulting to supply chain sustainability reporting, helping companies improve transparency and accountability. Guided by a deep commitment to improving social and environmental impact, she sees this work as her true north star.
Amy enjoys spending her free time with her husband and their two dogs, as well as caring for her pet chickens. She can be found outdoors year-round, whether gardening, backpacking, volunteering at her local urban farm, cycling, or cross-country skiing.
Our Board
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Michael Nutter
Board Chair
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Cynthia Petrone-Hudock
Treasurer
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Mark Sunderland
Secretary
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Judy Wicks
Emeritus Board Member