Steepers Only Founder Recognized as FSHN Alumni Success Story for International Tea Day

Every year on December 15, International Tea Day celebrates the drink that connects cultures, communities, and cups around the world. For Steepers Only founder Angelica Lee, that story begins in an unexpected place — a missionary trip to Kenya as a teenager.

When she asked a local minister, `What time is tea time?` — the answer changed her life: Every time is tea time.

That philosophy became the heartbeat of her brand, and this International Tea Day, were honored to see it recognized by the very institution that helped her build it.

ACES Spotlights Steepers Only for International Tea Day

The University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences (ACES) — the department where Angelica earned her degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition — featured Steepers Only in a special post celebrating International Tea Day.

The ACES profile highlights Angelica’s journey: from her first exposure to tea culture in Kenya, through her studies at Illinois, to building a brand rooted in wellness, culture, and connection.

Read the full feature from ACES: Every Time Is Tea Time — FSHN Alumni Entrepreneur

The Illinois Foundation

Angelica’s path to tea entrepreneur wasn’t accidental. In 2012, she enrolled at the University of Illinois, majoring in Food Science and Human Nutrition. Her coursework gave her the technical foundation to build a food business from scratch.

A Product Development course with Dr. Dawn Bohn gave her hands-on experience creating, marketing, and selling a food product. She calls it the experience that inspired her and gave her the skills to start Steepers Only.

She also spent time in the Food Microbiology Laboratory learning from Dr. Michael Miller, and credits Meredith Blumthal, Director of Food and Agribusiness Management, as a huge supporter who believed in her vision early on.

Celebrate With Us

This International Tea Day, we’re celebrating not just the drink — but the culture, community, and craftsmanship behind every cup. From Kenya to Chicago, from a student kitchen to grocery shelves across Illinois — Steepers Only is proof that the best things start with a single cup and a big dream.

Curious about our teas? Explore the full collection

Feature via University of Illinois College of ACES