Ursuline’s annual Global Symposium on February 27, 2025, centered on Sustainable Agriculture, a key theme in the school's commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Still, Keynote Speaker Pashon L. Murray, founder of Detroit Dirt, delivered much more than a lesson in regenerative farming and the sweeping ramifications of climate change. The celebrated environmental entrepreneur and activist captivated the attentive all-school audience from the start by stating, ”Service leadership is the key in this life.” 

After sharing her personal journey, including summer days on her grandfather’s farm and her private school education in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Murray spoke of the importance of leadership and setting an example for others. She revealed that in 2003, she came to understand that food waste in Detroit was a crisis that needed close attention. She got to work on making a difference.

Murray delved into a fact-packed multi-media presentation on the topic of the day: Sustainable Agriculture. As Murray explained, this topic encompasses wide-ranging issues in science, technology, business, and public policy.

Service leadership is the key in this life.”
- Pashon L. Murray, founder, Detroit Dirt

During her forty-five-minute presentation and student Q & A, she gingerly unpacked weighty concepts in environmental science, emphasizing the role of regenerative farming, carbon neutrality, recycling, and composting in combating climate change. But she didn’t stop there. 

In a clear-cut manner that appealed to both middle schoolers and high schoolers, she enthusiastically shared her mission, which began with a goal of reducing the carbon footprint in Detroit and evolved into a global movement to create a lasting, positive impact on the Earth.

“We all have a purpose - to bring about change and help others develop change,” she continued. “We also need to learn from others to make the world a better place.” 

She inspired audience members - students and teachers alike - to become part of the solution. “Work with nature, not against it,” she said. “Believe that you can be a part of something great.” 

The event held special meaning for Ursuline’s AP Government & Politics students and their "sister school" guests from the Academy of Mount Saint Ursula. Students benefited from Murray's one-on-one question-and-answer session, during which she listened to students' concerns and offered advice about advocating for environmental solutions. 

Work with nature, not against it. Believe that you can be a part of something great.” 
- Pashon L. Murray, founder, Detroit Dirt

Later, she visited Mrs. Yang’s Earth Science 9H class and observed students examining soil samples. Her presence gave the students a unique learning experience and inspired them to apply their knowledge to better understand real-world environmental issues.

Murray's call to action focused on youth, who have the 'intelligence' needed to devise solutions to climate change. She emphasized collaboration and community in tackling challenges like climate change, reinforcing the idea that every action counts in the fight for a sustainable future.

Ursuline's Global Symposium was a powerful reminder of everyone's potential to make a positive difference. It inspired attendees to prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship, reinforcing their integral role in the cause. As Ursuline continues to prioritize these goals, Murray’s message is clear and will undoubtedly inspire discussions about making meaningful change toward a more sustainable future. As she puts it, “Work hard, believe anything is possible and try to make the world better.”