Who Grows Your Clothes?

Explore the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry, including the connection between our wardrobes, soil health, and the value of local, regenerative fiber systems. The founders of PA Fibershed will share insights on how to rethink your relationship with clothing and make more sustainable, ethical choices that benefit both the planet and your local community.

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are not required for this event.

About the Speakers

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 and 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 cofounder of PA Fibershed, she is instrumental in advancing sustainable and circular fashion practices, making a lasting impact on the industry and the community.

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 cofounder of PA 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. 

About the Series

Science on Tap is a monthly speaker series that features brief, informal presentations by Philadelphia-based scientists and other experts followed by lively conversation and a Q&A. The goal is to promote enthusiasm for science in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while also meeting new people. Come join the conversation!

Featured photo courtesy of PA FIbershed.