On May 14, 2026, the Office of Inclusive Excellence (IE) continued its special topic series: Tea with IE.
Fueled by a spirit of dialogue and engagement (as well as an assorted tea potluck), Tea with IE presents the UCLA community an opportunity to learn firsthand with UCLA’s top experts on a host of topics.
This Tea session was hosted by Dr. Eddie R. Cole (Professor of Education and History; Associate Dean, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, UCLA School of Education & Information Studies) and Dr. Kenny Donaldson (Senior Associate Athletics Director, Academic & Championship Excellence, UCLA Athletics), and explored the intersection of inclusive excellence with the world of student athletics in higher education.
Overview
Dr. Cole and Dr. Donaldson led an engaging presentation, walking participants through the challenges and victories in the lives of student athletes — particularly through the lens of safety, belonging, and inclusive excellence on campus.
Participants
As the Office of Inclusive Excellence’s fifth official session of Tea with IE, this event drew a robust 40+ registrants (split between in-person attendees and Zoom). Featuring a mix of faculty, staff, and students, the audience was able glean an inside look at the world of college athletics — bridging concepts of mental health, mentorship, financial literacy, and ultimately bringing together one of the most diverse of groups of folks for the purpose of a common goal.
Takeaways
In the very spirit of the “Tea with IE” series, participants were able to learn, discuss, and engage with fascinating and challenging new perspectives in a friendly, inclusive space. As outlined by Dr. Cole and Dr. Donaldson, attendees learned of UCLA Athletics’ pillars for championship excellence: 1) Policy and Employment, 2) Programming and Education, and 3) Engagement and Communication. Moreover, the mission of UCLA Athletics is to provide a space where athletes can be their true selves, equipping them with vital life skills and empowering them to create social and civil change within their communities.
In Dr. Cole’s and Dr. Donaldson’s eyes, we are at a powerful inflection point of athletics and social issues. And in that light, the speakers’ and their dedicated colleagues’ goal is simple: to continue having honest conversations with student athletes, to provide them with the best guidance and care as they navigate new financial realities, and to help them be not just the best athletes — but the best versions of themselves and Bruins.
