Dear Faculty and Staff,

You're invited to the October session of Tea & Talk, a monthly professional development space for connecting, reflecting, and building community. The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI) brings you this initiative in collaboration with Human Resources, Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), Academic Personnel Services (APS), and Staff Council.

When: Thursday, October 1, 2026, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Where: Social Justice, Equity, and Inclusion Center (SJEIC), Vine Deloria Room, Balabanis House

This month’s conversation, “Celebrations and Opportunities,” invites us to pause and take stock of what we are noticing across campus. Together, we will reflect on moments of progress, connection, and success, while also identifying opportunities for growth, collaboration, and greater support. This conversation offers space to recognize what is working, learn from what is emerging, and consider how we can build on our collective strengths as the semester continues. 

We facilitate from experience, not from a place of final authority. This session is designed as a professional development space. Participants are welcome to reflect on lived and professional experience while honoring appropriate boundaries and recognizing the importance of additional support and campus resources when needed. This gathering offers structured reflection, guided frameworks, and meaningful dialogue to help us stay grounded in our work and our shared commitment to student success and inclusive excellence.

These sessions are intentionally scheduled during the workday to affirm our institution’s commitment to employee learning and well-being. Each gathering offers a supportive space to:

• Deepen inclusive leadership practices.
• Strengthen collaboration across roles and disciplines.
• Reflect on the relational dynamics shaping our campus community.

Grounded in respect, confidentiality, and cultural humility, Tea & Talk fosters mutual learning through meaningful dialogue.

Coffee, tea, and hot cocoa are available. 

We look forward to sharing “tea,” conversation, and community with you.