Recipient: Letter:

Larry Penley and Ann Iverson Greetings, As a T-bird, I am deeply concerned about the proposed partnership between Thunderbird and Laureate Education, Inc. While I recognize and acknowledge the changing face of graduate education, this proposal is a short-sighted and illadvised solution that will cause permanent and irreparable harm to the Thunderbird brand, ranking, and academic reputation. For-profit education may have its place, but it certainly does not align with the goals, culture or mission of Thunderbird. Furthermore, this selling out of the Thunderbird name will further dilute the brand, and as a result cheapen the value of the degree. I call upon Dr. Larry Penley and the Thunderbird Board of Trustees to immediately suspend the proposed partnership. Thunderbirds Global Alumni and student network, at the absolute core of the Thunderbird Mystique MUST have a voice in this matter. While past administrations have focused on Thunderbird for Good, now is the time for us turn our attention to what is good for Thunderbird.

Comments
Name Aaron Ohms Location Denver, CO Date 2013-03-29 Comment Because I want to maintain the standard of excellence set forth by the Thunderbird brand Richard Koehler Abhinav Kant Visby, Sweden Westland, MI 2013-03-29 2013-03-29 For the future of Thunderbird, the alumni and current students. I am a Thunderbird Alum. I am concerened about the brand dilution of the School name. Juan Carlos Hussong Matt G. Oslo, Norway, Norway AZ 2013-03-29 2013-03-29 The future reputation of Thunderbird is at stake! Please rethink this decision. I highly value the brand that is Thunderbird. We need to preserve our brand similar to likes of a Harvard or Stanford. While we may not have the same funds as these schools, we have a Global Network that is in a class all by itself. Patty Vukanovich Jeremy Snyder Daniel Gaines San Francisco, CA Glendale, AZ Washington, DC 2013-03-29 2013-03-29 2013-03-29 For the sake of Thunderbird's and its alumni's ongoing success I am a concerned alumni. I love Thunderbird. I love the Thunderbird brand. The Thunderbird brand is part of MY brand. To be candid, I think this move cheapens the school's brand and takes away from our prestige. I strongly urge you to suspend the proposed partnership. Massoud Marzban Rockville, MD 2013-03-30 Not keen on the watered down of the worth of my degree to be linked with an online education system Kush Brahmavar Lima, Peru 2013-03-30 The Thunderbird brand is doomed for dilution with the Laureate partnership. Please reconsider and abandon this venture. Nirvana Law Earth, NY 2013-03-31 <a href="http://www.change.org/petitions/do-your-part-in-helping-god-toestablish-the-kingdom-of-heaven-on-earth" rel="nofollow">http://www.change.org/petitions/do-your-part-in-helping-god-toestablish-the-kingdom-of-heaven-on-earth</a> Evgeny Romakin Middletown, CT 2013-03-31 Partnership or even assosiating Thunderbird name with mass degree producer, Laureat, will force potential Thunderbird students seeking a real MBA to look at other schools. Yet, it is not fair in relation to Thunderbird alumni. Lawrence (Larry) Schulz Germany 2013-03-31 The Thunderbird brand is important. Additionally I mistrust the "for-profit" education processes as they too often skimp on education to optimize the benefits for their shareholders. Charles Clausen Jaclynn Fimrite Arnal Chandra Toshiaki HANAOKA John Young Fot Wayne, IN Calgary, Alberta, Canada Tustin, CA Japan Phoenix, AZ 2013-03-31 2013-03-31 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 This will dilute the Thunderbird brand & mystic! To protect the long term value of the Thunderbird Brand. Value of my MBA, and Thunderbird's future. I am go with this petition. Dilution of the brand. Extremism from the new administration that does not understand Tbird. Ankit Dhawan Carlos Quinonez India San Salvador, El Salvador 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 To avoid Brand Dilution and maintain the value of my Degree This agreement threatens to bring the Thunderbird name to the level of "fast food" education (xxx being served... Available around your neighborhood corner...) Eduardo Lepori Yuheng Fei Catherine STONE Santiago, Chile, Chile Shanghai, China Lexington, MA 2013-04-02 2013-04-02 2013-04-02 Dilution of the brand, confusion with a low reputation standard of Laureate. To help my school stay at the top Concerned as a Thunderbird Alumni

Name Renato Reategui Yvette Morrill

Location So Paulo, Brazil Walpole, MA

Date 2013-04-02 2013-04-02

Comment Because it will dilute the value of my degree. To maintain its reputation and the quality of the education it offers, I think it's important for Thunderbird to remain independent and not align itself with forprofit educational institutions.

Steven Pantier

Australia

2013-04-02

This looks like a great thing for Laureate, but I don't see the benefit for Thunderbird or it's Alumni.

Stanislaus Haribowo

Singapore, Singapore

2013-04-02

I am not convinced on how the proposed partnership will improve the way the school is currently managed.

Kunal Gupta

Singapore, Singapore

2013-04-02

Thunderbird should maintain it's niche in providing global management education rather than focussing on revenues from other courses in the nonfocussed segment that might attenuate school's image in the global arena.

Berton Lerner

Middleboro, MA

2013-04-02

As a longtime alumnus, I cherish and relish the established tradition that "Thunderbird" has achieved and enduring over these many years.

Ruth Nagle Samarth Sangal

Newton, MA India

2013-04-02 2013-04-02

This degrades the school's reputation. Thunderbird going the commercial way will further dilute the image of the school. Not a match made in heaven type of deal. Thunderbird should concentrate on improving the placement records, quality of student intake and alumni networking rather than going after the money.

William Hughes

Rolle, Switzerland

2013-04-02

This will dilute the Thunderbird brand further. Thunderbird education helps guide some of the largest companies in the world. Use some of the knowledge that the school is imparting to its students to do something creative to expand the brand.

Hans Eric Destre Joy Nakfoor

Hilversum, Netherlands Knoxville, TN

2013-04-02 2013-04-02

Don't dilute the brand! I feel this is a bad move for Thunderbird and will lessen the image of the school that many already consider to be an online degree.

Joe Lynch Beth Burlingame George Pool

Brockton, MA Providence, RI Houston, United States

2013-04-02 2013-04-02 2013-04-02

I feel that this alliance will harm the prestige of the Thunderbird Degree. There has to be a better option than this. I am a Thunderbird Alum, and very concerned about this proposed partnership that may greatly reduce the image, standing and all around greatness of Thunderbird.

Lisa Griffith

Cambridge, MA

2013-04-02

There has to be a better way to get a 'cash infusion' than to resort to a partnership that will cheapen the brand image of T-bird. T-bird produces amazing entrepreneurs and managers - why not turn to us to find a better solution?

David Macaulay

Nantuclet, MA

2013-04-02

'For Profit' graduate education by nature diminshes what is invested in the institution in favor of the shareholders. Affiliating TBird with it will diminish the brand. This looks like a short term strategy which I believe Drs. Cabrera, Herberger and my President, Voris would never abide.

David Macaulay Barbara Langston Erika Hogele Stovall N. Raymond Hays

Nantuclet, MA Lexington, MA Morristown, TN Tucson, AZ

2013-04-02 2013-04-02 2013-04-02 2013-04-02

Thunderbird changed my life Must protect Thunderbird and alumni brand I don't believe this is the direction Thunderbird should take. I do not feel that a partnership with for-profit education aligns with Thunderbird's culture or goals.

Jalal Mitri

Phoenix, AZ

2013-04-02

Past present and future. Respect tradition.

Name Eric Denniston

Location Mayer, AZ

Date 2013-04-02

Comment I am a founding board member of the Thunderbird Alumni Association and served as a chapter leader for 30 years. The culture of the school, its alumni, staff and stakeholders must be a top priority in considering any move like this. I accept that the culture will change and adjust, but the move to partner with a for-profit institution has the potential to produce some serious undesirable consequences. On the surface this looks like an "easy fix" to a deeper systemic issue.

keith johnson

los angeles, CA

2013-04-02

I am very disappointed that Thunderbird is considering this proposition. A forprofit school will definitely cheapen the value of a degree there.

Kristen van Houten

Washington, DC

2013-04-02

Please do not degenerate the brand name of Thunderbird with the Laureate partnership. Thunderbird will become equated solely with a cheap, low quality online education and become synonymous with the University of Phoenix and Strayer University.

Bill Bindseil

Encintas, CA

2013-04-02

This arrangement between Thunderbird and Laureate does Education does not bring any substantial value to the global recognition, brand and academic reputation of Thunderbird. Thunderbird was built on 60 years of excellence in higher education and the tens of thousands of students that have contributed to the legacy. Please rethink the partnership in context with the bigger vision and values of Thunderbird.

Nancy Trevino

Tustin, CA

2013-04-02

My father was a1948 graduate, a Jonas Meyer award recipient. My brother and I both followed in his footsteps. With the proliferation of on line and for profit universities it seems very tempting. But why would you want to do this if we are already number one? Whatever happened to preserving the Thunderbird mystique? I have heard of one ideal student not getting accepted, who will choose the future candidates how many students will graduate each year? We already have campus' elsewhere... Do we really need more?

John Lindblom

Singapore

2013-04-02

Have full appreciation for the importance that degree holds in its networking value, have spent my entire career working and living overseas.

Julie Hamlin

Sturgeon Bay, WI

2013-04-03

While other organizations and institutions are spending millions on brand revitalization efforts, Thunderbird risks diminishing the value of its own brand overnight -- and without a penny spent. Mr. Penley, please be very, very careful. This might be one misstep too many.

Joseph Yin Claire Romera

Franklin Park, NJ Minneapolis, MN

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

The tradition, integrity, and reputation of the school/program is at stake. My husband and I both have Thunderbird degrees. We have seen first-hand the value (or lack thereof) the Thunderbird degree has among employers in this economy. I strongly believe that this would be one step too far.

Vibhor Gupta

new york, NY

2013-04-03

This partnership just dilutes the thunderbird brand. How many of the top 50 schools do this? My guess is 0.

Antonio romera

sevilla, Spain

2013-04-03

I believe this partnership will dilute the brand and we will lose the reputation of the school. Can you name one top-ranked business school that has a for-profit partnership like this one?

Alla Kamins

Rangoon, Singapore

2013-04-03

Since my graduation in 2000 it has been frustrating to see the school's inability to define a long-term strategy that would not strengthen its brand. This partnership will further weaken it.

Tracy K. Hastings

Belfast, ME

2013-04-03

I am one of the very early grads still alive (AIFT 1948) and I think the Laureate idea is a huge mistake. Despite claims of "independence" we'll be perceived as just another for-profit issuing "mail-order degrees."

Tiffany Pogue

Walnut Creek, CA

2013-04-03

Making the institution a for profit entity will dilute the brand and the value of the thunderbird degree by employers.

Name Kristin Stone

Location York, PA

Date 2013-04-03

Comment Please, please don't do this! What are you thinking? For one thing, you'll anger your alumni and lose donors. Don't do it!

Benjamin Auslander THULASI DEVADAS

Farmington Hills, MI Alexandria, VA

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

This partnership is NOT in our best interest I disagree with the partnership as it would dilute the brand. Please don't find easy money by hurting long term prospects of the prestigious institution

Pradnesh Kulkarni

Fremont, CA

2013-04-03

Partnering with Laureate will result in dilution and will further dim the recruitment and growth chances of current students and alumni alike. I denounce this partnership

Rishab Jain Ajay Vaddi

India Glendale, AZ

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

This would definitely hurt the mystique of the brand Thunderbird. This proposed move would definitely hurt the mystique of the brand Thunderbird.

Daniel Hunkeler

Solothurn, Switzerland

2013-04-03

I am a Thunderbird, not a laureate. Laureate manages 3 schools in Switzerland, that it claims to be top institutions, when really they are at the bottom of the scale of educational quality. We cannot let that happen to Thunderbird.

Gary Napadov

Glendale, AZ

2013-04-03

An excerpt from the letter I wrote to President Penley last week: With this letter, I urge you to take a very serious look at the outcry from the Thunderbird students, alumni, and broader community and consider, very carefully, all of the concerns and possible ramifications of this deal going forward. Now there's no need to tell us again that the partnership is not a merger or acquisition, and that our name won't change, or make any further mention of the 501c3 status. We get it. What I urge you to consider is that why, in all of actions and communications, there's no mention of second thought or concern over the Joint Venture being very much a For Profit Education entity? I know we touched on this during the Town Hall, but I, and many of my fellow students, were not pleased with the answer. The recent Senate Committee Report on For-Profit Colleges makes little exception in saying that such For Profit institutions are infamous for: "Exorbitant tuition, aggressive recruiting practices, abysmal student outcomes, taxpayer dollars spent on marketing and pocketed as profit, and regulatory evasion and manipulation... These practices are not the exception they are the norm. They are systemic throughout the industry, with very few individual exceptions. Now I do acknowledge that the gentlemen from Laureate said they were one of those "very few individual exceptions", but I have yet to find any record of that. And if that was the case, why not shine more light on it? The fact of the matter is that we live in a world of public opinion, and at this juncture the public view of "For Profit Education" is VERY poor. The forthcoming JV will bare the name "Thunderbird" and thus, in the public eye, Thunderbird will drop to the ranks of University of Phoenix and Grand Canyon University. And while it's important to continuously note that Thunderbird will remain an "independent, private, nonprofit (501c3) organization", the JV will undoubtedly get the bulk of exposure, and thus all of Thunderbird entity will be viewed as yet another For Profit Education entity. This is especially the case as all academic programs, including those in the JV entity, will be under the academic control of Thunderbird faculty, administrators and the board of trustees.

Stephanie Benson

Glendale, AZ

2013-04-03

I strongly believe for-profit methods are anathema to what education is all about. I understand that Thunderbird struggles with name recognition, but this will only worsen matters.

Name Eric Roux

Location Coppet, Switzerland

Date 2013-04-03

Comment Education and maximising profitability do not mix. This will ultimately lead to dilution of the brand and positioning of Thunderbird. Focus on the core and stick to the basics: retain and promote Thunderbird's position as the leader in an International Business Education. Improve the placement results from 58%. That is two core strategic topics that require full time attention.

Lawrence Masle

Amsterdam, Netherlands

2013-04-03

There may be a place for this sort of partnership within Executive Eduction, but it does not seem to align with Thunderbird's core degree programs. A broader reassessment should be considered. Thank you and good luck!

Landa LaMotta

Scarsdale, NY

2013-04-03

Top tier b schools do NOT pursue these types of online endeavors, which do more to devalue the degree than to elevate online education. We are a niche brand in a growing segment. I would rather see online expansion of courses geared toward continued education--specific coursework designed for alumni to keep their degree relevant in a rapidly changing environment. T-bird doesn't need Laureate, U of Phx or any other online "expert" education. This is a bad idea that has already gone too far!

Ruben Romero Jake Snyder

Acton, CA San Leandro, CA

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

I'm an alumni I'll be sending back my diploma as it will soon be even more worthless. Thanks for nothing T-bird

Anna Maria Fosteras

Inverness, IL

2013-04-03

The Thunderbird brand is valuable to me as an alumna of the school and should remain so for all future alumni. I chose to go to thunderbird over other very good business schools & I want to protect its reputation.

Jessica Hynes

London, United Kingdom

2013-04-03

In London we are part of the US X-MBA community - Harvard, Wharton, Cornell. This will make us a part of the on-line hospitality club. It's hard enough explaining what Thunderbird is. This does not help at all.

Eugenia Brooks

Walkington, United Kingdom

2013-04-03

I see no long term value for Thunderbird with this and would suspect that Col Yount would be wholeheartedly opposed to the denegration of the brand that this association will bring. school and the brand. Really BOD??? What are you thinking? Feels like desperation rather than a well thought out strategy on how to develop the

Lawrence Smith Joseph Kazacos

Australia Reston, VA

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

On line education is not well regarded internationally Associating the Thunderbird name with for-profit education will harm the validity of the Thunderbird degree, for both current students and all alumni. Furthermore, it will diminish the perceived value of all faculty, speakers, and stakeholders who have contributed expertise and/or resources to Thunderbird.

Ana Iglesias

Somerville, MA

2013-04-03

Because I do not want my Thunderbird degree to be worth nothing and compared to a cheap online MBA school.

Christiane Krauss Jacqueline Torres

Germany Flushing, NY

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

the partnership would dilute the value of my degree Living in the Northeast US where some of the finest institutions in the country can be found, I've had to explain and defend the Thunderbird name on numerous occasions. I've constantly had to explain that we had NO affilation with for-profit online degree mills. To hear that Thunderbird is making the move to dilute the brand and make a mockery of the investment I've made is incredibly disheartening. Thunderbird, do NOT go through with this partnership!

wake margo

dallas, TX

2013-04-03

Does not seem like the right match

Name Randy Hertog

Location Lee, NH

Date 2013-04-03

Comment Thunderbird has a tremendous history of providing an outstanding International educational experience that appears will be highly compromised by the joint venture with Laureate. Understanding the current financial challenges Thunderbird is facing are of grave concern but it does appear, at least on the surface, this is somewhat of a knee jerk reaction to provide a short term solution that will unfortunately have dire consequences to the long term reputation and viability of Thunderbirds educational experience, International ranking and overall credibility.

Oscar Neiras

Spain

2013-04-03

I am a T-Bird alumn, and as a former Full-time student see this partnership as selling the brand with very little regard to the quality of the education, something that already started with the on-line programs. Nothing can replace a good on-site, face-to-face experience, and this only furthers this degradation of the educational experience.

Rod South

Idaho Falls, ID

2013-04-03

I value the education I received from Thunderbird. However, I fear that joining with Laureate will weaken the reputation and brand Thunderbird has worked so hard to build.

Leigh Taylor

Castle Rock, CO

2013-04-03

The partnership with Laureate Education will only serve to do away with the Thunderbird mystique by diluting the brand.

Matthew Venezia

Groveland, MA

2013-04-03

One of the main benefits from attending the (brick and mortar)Thunderbird is the interrelationships with student from all over the world. This would be lost.

Meredith McKenna Santiago Mejia Lawrrence Giessinger

Mercer Island, WA North bay village, FL Bangkok, Thailand, Thailand

2013-04-03 2013-04-03 2013-04-03

My degree was too expensive to be cheapened in t his way. We do not want to turn out to be another University of Phoenix Dear Sirs: I do realize the potential value of online education and the impact it will have in the future. However, TBird loses it's unique approach to the international business community through this initiative. If we believe that Laureate can devise online programs that would benefit TBird, then let's contract them to formulate an online program that TBird can buy and offer in its own name. Sincerely, LarryG

Jennifer Galek Barry Miller

Austin, TX Chicago, IL

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

It has a direct impact on the value of my Thunderbird degree. I spent 100k plus on a premium education and its value is dropping daily. I can't see the value of my degree drop any further

Saloni Patil Gerhard Hachmann

Chicago, IL Buenos Aires, Germany

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

Thunderbird's rankings are already slipping. This will further dilute the brand. Defending the Brand is the most important issue for a niche player like Thunderbird. Walden has absolutely nothing to bring to the table except a badly run online education system. If Thunderbird feels like they need to modernize their program its not with a partner who clearly doesn't understand the business.

Jeri Denniston

Mayer, AZ

2013-04-03

I have not seen an instance where a for profit educational institution has equaled or out-performed the quality of education that non profit institutions provide. This will hurt rather than help Thunderbird.

Dawn Novak Benjamin Berger

Redmond, WA Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

Keep Thunderbird strong! Im a Thunderbird graduate, and agree that this action will deeply hurt the value of the Thunderbird brand.

Swati Jain Hillary VanderBand

Brooklyn, NY Falls Church, VA

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

Dilutes Thunderbird Proposed change will significantly devalue my degree and investment in my Thunderbird MBA. Plus, I think that there are better non-profit, more highly ranked institutions out there for Thunderbird to partner with, if that HAS to be done...

Name Duncan Blount

Location Miami, FL

Date 2013-04-03

Comment The primary reason I'm against this partnership is the fact that it cheapens the Thunderbird brand...potentially to the level that would dissuade future interest by prospective students and discourage involvement and donations by current alumni - myself included.

Bharath Arvind Rafael Valadez

Mumbai, India San Pedro Gza Gcia, Mexico

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

This is our alma mater and we care deeply about the brand! With that partnership is clear in time will change the focus and objective of Thunderbird. There are changing for money the real spirit.

Robert Richter

Panama, Panama

2013-04-03

This is important to me because I would like the board and the Thunderbird community to take a collaborative critical look at the pros and cons of this partnership. I want to ensure that future generations of Thunderbirds continue to be a better and better quality, constantly improving the caliber, not stepping back. This may be a good move, I do not know, but I am signing this petition to halt the process while it can be acutely reviewed by the Thunderbird community.

Brent Crenshaw

Dallas, TX

2013-04-03

When I tell people I got my MBA from Thunderbird, I would like that to have meaning and not drawing comparisons to University of Phoenix.

Susan Marris

London, United Kingdom

2013-04-03

As a proud (until now at least) Thunderbird alum, I am very concerned that this association will tarnish the image of the school.

Eli Mercer

Austin, TX

2013-04-03

Dear Thunderbird Management, I am utterly disappointed that I, along with all Thunderbird alumni, was not informed in advance of these plans and included in the dialogue prior to action being taken. This is one of the first lessons we learn at Thunderbird in crosscultural communications, that a constructive and inclusive dialogue is necessary to gain buy-in and support in a multicultural environment. It appears the decision makers involved may not be graduates of our university, or perhaps this was overlooked in a rush to get a deal done. This is the second lesson we learn as Thunderbirds, that it takes time and patience to put together a good deal, especially across cultures. I therefore suggest that we slow down the process and take our own core philosophy into account. It is not too late for this to take place. I encourage the new administration to place partnership plans on hold, and to make a concerted effort to reach out to alumni in order to make sure this move is in keeping with our mission and goals. As Thunderbird graduates, we are the torch bearers and therefore the ultimate authority regarding our brand and our community. If the partnership proves to be a good one, it will only be strengthened by the dialogue and scrutiny. If it is not, this pause could save us from a big mistake. If the institution is in such dire straits that short-term cash is needed, then be transparent and open up the books and your financial needs to the alumni, I'm confident that we can find a short-term solution in order for us to allow time to make solid long-term decision regarding this or other possible partnerships. Sincerely, Eli D. Mercer +1) 972-896-3780

Galit Smocha

Arlington, VA

2013-04-03

This will make Thunderbird like every other Bschool, all about the money. Thunderbird is all about being Global and DO GOOD! We wrote the Oath - It is not consistent with what Thunderbird stands for.

Name Marina Pappone

Location So Paulo, Brazil

Date 2013-04-03

Comment Because it is not aligned to Tbird values and will deeply damage the TBird brand

Harshit Shah

India

2013-04-03

As a recent alum, Thunderbird memories are very fresh in my mind. I am aware that the brand was already at a low and the Laureate partnership does not help it in any way.

Daniel Kryzanowski Shelley Pursell

Austin, TX Bogota, Colombia

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

Brand Dilution and Lack of Transparency I chose to attend Thunderbird because of its high reputation, quality program and curriculum, and network. I am scared that the partnership with a for-profit program will dilute the brand and the school's integrity. Please reconsider.

Tiffany Benson

Austin, TX

2013-04-03

This feels rushed, potentially harmful to our school and community, brand and prestige, and a sign that our new administration is disconnected from the spirit and the will of our alumni.

Ermelinda Kraft

Paradise Valley, AZ

2013-04-03

I was disappointed to read about the Thunderbird-Laureate partnership. I strongly believe that a partnership with a proprietary institution such as Laureate will definitely dilute the Thunderbird brand.

Kayla Wu Dan Baird

Taipei, Taiwan Salt Lake City, UT

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

I support Thunderbird as our own brand as being proud of a Tbird' As an alumni I worry about damaging the brand. Somethings don't mix well with profit. I want education to be first and foremost the most important goal of the school

nate comly ALAN SAURAN

washington, DC Australia

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

alumni ALTHOUGH I AM NOW RETIRED, IT IS VERY DISAPPOINTING TO SEE MY SCHOOL MAKE A HUGE BRANDING ERROR WHILE TEACHING ITS OWN MARKETING 101 STUDENTS THE OPPOSITE.

Rodrigo Diaz Brown

Mexico

2013-04-03

Protect the Thunderbird brand as is and solidify the future rankings and reputation.

Fernando Alandia

Elmhurst, IL

2013-04-03

Disappointing that these sorts of strategic decisions appear to lack the appreciation of the deep history of what truly separated Thunderbirds name and program. In recent years it appears that the school has accepted a need to compete within the constraints/drivers of other MBA programs rather than to embrace and promote our difference. Thunderbird has always been and should continue to represent an unique difference in experience and graduate. This is our value, our selling point, our niche. To acknowledge and compete on the same level with other programs - some of which claim to have international programs - suggests that Thunderbird believes these schools are closing the gap to us or on the same level. Simply said - they are not. I take pride in what Tbirds achieve and am witness to the difference we make globally. While other programs may produce industry leaders in other core areas, no one produces global leaders like Thunderbird. Let's celebrate and protect that, act like we believe in our difference, and truly challenge other programs to demonstrate their competitiveness. Our value is measured in quality of graduates - not number of graduates.

Trina Karstrom

Australia

2013-04-03

for profit partnership is not an option, still face to face in school time is the most important. I was an 1980 graduate, now my children may consider this school, not an option if they go ahead with this partnership.

Rommel Mayer Rodriguez Jason McLeod

Santiago de Quertaro, Mexico Taylor, MI

2013-04-03

Because I'm a T-bird by heart and don't want to see it fail and become something that does not represent the alumni!

2013-04-03

I simply echo the sentiment of my fellow alumni that this can only cheapen the Thunderbird brand. Management should focus on improving the rankings, not partnering with institutions that will never appear on any.

Name claudia barbabosa David Mitchel

Location Mexico city, Mexico Dallas, TX

Date 2013-04-03 2013-04-03

Comment Because I wish to return to study in Thunderbird. I have not seen Ivy League or other top level private schools pursuing this type of arrangement.

debo adebayo Keith Meyer

glendale, AZ Australia

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

chnage in brand and negative perception As a 1992 graduate of Thunderbird and an alumni living overseas, my degree has been invaluable to my career. If the name is diluted, it would be detrimental to all of our careers going forward. Diluting the strong alumni network would be a negative as well, one thing that has been very supportive to my living in many different places.

Steven Schultz Juan Rodriguez

Schenectady, NY Mexico

2013-04-03 2013-04-03

I fully agree to the letter and content. Thunderbird students are recognized in the world as the top ranked bussiness school. I really believe that a partnership is not help our prestige as former students and comunity.

Cameron Cavette

Beverly Hills, CA

2013-04-03

As a Thunderbird Alumni, I value the current Thunderbird reputation and am dissapointed to see its dilution with a short-term perspective of parternering with a for-profit educator.

Daniela Monroy

Mxico df, Mexico

2013-04-03

As far as I know, Laureate Education Inc is absolutely not good at education, all they care is about money and the institutions they have in my country are some of the worst at education. Therefore, I would be extremely disappointed if Thunderbird were to join this institution. I believe and hope that we are not at the same level as Laureate if this is so then i would revaluate wether to write down Thunderbird on my CV or not!

Margaret McNiel

El Paso, TX

2013-04-03

It is important that the Thunderbird education remain the "Tiffany" of international business degrees and not "partner" with a "Walmart" of mass degree distribution.

Margaret McNiel

El Paso, TX

2013-04-03

This downgrades the Thunderbird degree. It would be like taking Tiffany jewels and mass distributing them through Walmart. Tiffany would never allow it and neither should Thunderbird. Peggy McNiel-Thunderbird Alumnus

Ivn Vila Echage

Santiago, Chile

2013-04-04

I agree that this partnership will be the worst thing to do for the Schools name and reputation

Julian Aguilar

Santiago, Chile

2013-04-04

Laurete is very well known in Chile for manage third tier universities. It will be disapointing that T-Bird continue with this Partnership.

Ted Ketterer

Atlanta, GA

2013-04-04

I agree that Thunderbird like any brand must innovate. I am a brand manager for the world's #1 valued brand, Coca-Cola. We deal with the same challenge. That said, strategic moves and partnerships must create long term "sustainable value". The fair question that everyone is asking is will this?

MARIO BECERRIL

Mxico City, Mexico

2013-04-04

I am proud to be a T-bird and I also studied in a Laureate Education, Inc. school, and believe me when I say is a huge difference about values, quality, etc., they are good, but Thunderbird is hundred times better, stop this process.

ALLAN ACOSTA

Glendale, AZ

2013-04-04

Potential long-term depreciation of the value of my degree. ThunderbirdLaurete is not what I signed in for when enrolled in the Executive Program.

Pablo Herdener

Santiago, Chile, Chile

2013-04-04

Such proposed partnership would make weaker the already fragile brand image and turn Thunderbird into a "commodity" MBA. I strong believe that the school should turn into exactly the opposite direction.

Jose Sanzana Nitin Kaushal

Santiago, Chile Scottsdale, AZ

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Thunderbird is a great school and It can't compromise its good name have invested in t-bird brand and it needs to be preserved at all costs

Name Cornelis Everaert

Location Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Date 2013-04-04

Comment Thunderbird aligning with Laureate is the same as Bank of America buying Countrywide just before sub-prime broke. Countrywide was the winner, and so is Laureate. Don't do it.

nathan weber Mike Cordaro

old mill creek, IL Prairie Village, KS

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

because it matters... While at Thunderbird I learned about brand equity, what it means to build it, and what it means to lose it. I am afraid that this will greatly weaken Thunderbird's standing in the eyes of employers, prospective student, and alumni. I look back so fondly on the experiences I had at Thunderbird. I knew that I could meet an alum at the Pub back for their 20th reunion and know that we still shared a common bond and perspective. I am afraid that this will not be the case when I return for my 20th.

Adriana Munoz Jeffrey Boyd Juan Calfunanco

Mexico Washington, DC Santiago, Chile

2013-04-04 2013-04-04 2013-04-04

This is not a wise choice for Thunderbird's future. brand dilution... I think this partnership will dilute Thunderbird brand which is recognized as as synonymous of values, quality and multicultural mindset.

Kent Deitemeyer

Christchurch, New Zealand

2013-04-04

Dear President Penley, I am an older T-Bird alumni. For us, the Thunderbird mystic, brand and program are unique. T-Bird determined my entire business career and destiny. It is of huge value to us and not something we ever expected to be bartered off in a partnership with an unknown quantity. Our brand must stand alone and certainly not married with a 'for profit' private equity-owned diploma mill. Please do not go down this route. There is no need to 'go big' like this. The risks are too high for disappointment and potential failure particularly when you sign up with private equity who are notorious for short-term financial gain with no longterm vision. Their financial goals will always conflict with ours. Stay totally independent. For alumni, we must have full control of our core program. I would rather see Thunderbird expand into a full research institution with a PhD program offering that will strengthen our academic leadership and status vis-avis the top graduate business schools. We will never move into the top rankings without a formal PhD and top research program. By the way, I am both a Colorado State University and Thunderbird alumni and feel very strongly about the reputation of both of these institutions that both you and I value. I have lived overseas for 36 years as a T-bird alumni and know the reputation our school has. I want to see it strengthened but not in this manner. Let us move in a more progressive direction by strengthening our inner academic and research core. I only see a rocky road ahead with Laureate Education where we will lose the control of our own destiny and if things go wrong, our recovery will be a very long road. Please seriously reconsider this proposed partnership. I urge you to build our academic and research quality. As alumni, we want qualitative growth, not quantitative growth. Respectfully, Kent Deitemeyer Thunderbird, 1976 Colorado State University, BS, 1970 Lincoln University (NZ), MAppSci, 2002 (BTW: I stay closely connected with CSU as Prof Bernie Rollin is one of my dearest and closest friends with whom I have collaborated in veterinary ethics).

Name Ileana Ferber Ronald Greene

Location Spring, TX Lakewood, CA

Date 2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Comment Because I'm a T-Bird alumna I am most concerned about brand dilution. The school should first reach out to alumni agressively to raise cash.

Ravi Kaushik

Bangalore, India

2013-04-04

As a Thunderbird I am extremely concerned about the brand of my school and what it stands for. being from India, I do not know much about the Laureate brand but from what I am reading, it does seem to be very good and clearly does not fit with Thunderbird's mission. I understand that Thunderbird is in serious need of financial support, so it would be a good idea for us to have an open debate on what options do we have and how can we take our school out of this situation.

Krishna Chilukuri

India

2013-04-04

This partnership will dilute the quality of education at Thunderbird. I have great respect and really enjoyed the quality of teaching of our professors and I fear the school will potentially loose them. Who wants to be associated in the same league as the University of Phoenix!

Bharath Sekar

India

2013-04-04

I am a proud Thunderbird. I have seen several "for-profit" universities in India and the amount of skepticism and flak that they draw. I am not going to let that happen.

Divy Jaisingh Dipak Sundaram

Mumbai, India India

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Don't agree with the choice of partner. I am a proud alumni of Thunderbird. This a third rte partnership and is not ging to improve the schools brand image and what it stands for.

Anggelos Skutaris Antonio Fernandez Rrahul Dalmia

Athens, Greece Scottsdale, AZ New York, NY

2013-04-04 2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Because I want Tbird to remain a top-business school. As an alumnus, I'd like a vote. We're stakeholders too! The Thunderbird Brand will dilute; it will affect the credibility and reputation of my MBA degree!!

Anshuman Narain Gale A. Kirking

New Delhi, India Brno, Czech Republic, Czech Republic

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Terrible idea... Since attending Thunderbird, I have been concerned about academic quality, poor career placement, and sporadic management of the school and its reputation. I question whether the Laureate Partnership is the way to address these issues.

Pavel Kriz

Praha, Czech Republic

2013-04-04

As an oldtimer ('70), perhaps I stick to the Thunderbird Mystique a bit more than more recent alumni and students. I think that this partnership can only dillute it even further. Is an unguaranteed solution of the school's financial straits a good price for the loss of the reputation and brand weight. The inflation of cheap online MBA and EMBA degrees is overwhelming. We should not add Thunderbird degrees to their ranks.

Shoma Mukherji Jessica DuFresne Dennis Diokno

India Argentina Budapest, Hungary, Hungary

2013-04-04 2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Thunderbird cannot be a mass product - the degree loses its value. Dilution of the school brand. I'm very concerned with the potential dilution of the Thunderbird brand. I know that the school had other options. It's amazing how Thunderbird can attract excellent professors and turn out great managers but it can't run itself properly as a business. Finally the continuous lack of transparency with decisions such as this is a disgrace.

Glenn Cameron

Lima, Peru

2013-04-04

We cannot let T'birds name be diluted with all these online second tier institutions.

Tory Kinson

Knoxville, TN

2013-04-04

I do not want my hard-earned (and costly) MBA degree to be associated with the Lauerate program.

Maricarmen Cano

Houston, TX

2013-04-04

I can not imagine losing the entire investmen of my education because of such a partnership. It is an embarrasement that this would even be considered.

Name Henri Kinson

Location Greenfield, IN

Date 2013-04-04

Comment If the Thunderbird can't find even one high-quality institution that Laureate has partnered with to put in its press release, then there isn't one.

Minh Le

Peoria, AZ

2013-04-04

I am totally agree with Benjamin Piper and deeply concern about this partnership.

Jeanne Savelle

Smryna, GA

2013-04-04

This selling out of the Thunderbird name will further dilute the brand, and as a result cheapen the value of the degree.

Adolfo Blanco Joseph O'Dowd

Mexico New Orleans, LA

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Choice of partner. I am certainly not in favor of this type of 'partnership'especially with a private equity fund backed enterprise such as Laureate. It is unclear how any such arrangement will benefit the institution, its students or alumni. My sense is it will quickly dilute, and perhaps terminally damage, the institutions reputation and Thunderbird brand.

Mathew Katz Diego Foncerrada

glencoe, IL Mexico, Mexico

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

Brand Dilution Thunderbird should be looking for alliances that enhance its reputation and that elevates the recognition of the graduates instead of join institutions that only represent wider presence and economical volume.

fayda khalek Matthew Goff

geneva, Switzerland San Jose, CA

2013-04-04 2013-04-04

harmful to the brand This partnership dilutes what so many people have worked to achieve. Why kick so many people in the face?

Luis Wu Kelly Tiller Pakornsak Ratanawongpitak Frank Ruffing

Gilbert, AZ Glendale, AZ Glendale, AZ

2013-04-04 2013-04-04 2013-04-04

As stated exactly on the petition. I am a current student and do not believe in for-profit education. A current Student.

Arlington, VA

2013-04-05

Turn over the keys to ASU. Ironic the school has so woefully failed to adapt to the new reality that today all business is global. Trustees should be ashamed.

Mark Perkins Jason Teague

Mesa, AZ Washington, DC

2013-04-05 2013-04-05

I do not want the Thunderbird brand diluted... I agree that the partnership with Laureate will erode the Thunderbird brand and irreparably diminish the value of the degree. I strongly urge Mr. Penley and the board to revisit this issue and find alternative means to ensure Thunderbird's solvency.

Erich Bentz

Wien, Austria

2013-04-05

I did not attend Thunderbid to achieve a "Univ. of Phoenix" graduate diploma. Dilution of our investment and loyalty in Thunderbird as an experience and brand is at stake here.

rene jaspers Bret Collins

amsterdam, Netherlands Irvine, CA

2013-04-05 2013-04-05

don't mess with this brand, fix what needs to be fixed. I believe this merger devalues the Thunderbird brand and my MBA that I worked so hard for. This action ruins the very spirit that makes Thunderbird special and what cannot be replicated elsewhere. It is why Thunderbird has been ranked #1 for so long and why people travel from all the corners of the world to be a part of this elite network.

Moss Jean-Paul

France

2013-04-05

Daniel Gaines say it all : quote I love Thunderbird. I love the Thunderbird brand. The Thunderbird brand is part of MY brand. To be candid, I think this move cheapens the school's brand and takes away from our prestige. I strongly urge you to suspend the proposed partnership. unquote

Name Bill Swift

Location Leawood, KS

Date 2013-04-05

Comment The reputation and value of a T-Bird education must not be watered down in order to play in the online sphere. Sure times are tough and competition is fierce, but why not partner with one or more major universities who are developing online curricula? Teaming up with the strip-mall, grade-school tutoring brand "Sylvan" is a short-sighted and foolish approach for a graduate business school of global significance. My adult son has expressed interest in attending Thunderbird, but if this dumb plan goes forward I'll urge him to go elsewhere. Pedigree matters in graduate education and what a huge disappointment to hear about this from our own Thunderbird.

tom coler

sarasota, FL

2013-04-05

Thunderbird is good for Laureate but Laureate is not good for Thunderbird. Go to the alumni for direction. We have been there globally..

Margaret Amein

Germany

2013-04-05

The education industry is a non-profit sector for a reason. Attempts to make a profit out of eduction have ended up at the cost of the students, alumni, staff and professors for the benefit of the very few. Don't be naiive...while private equity can be great for start-ups, it's about not about destroying and cashing out rather than creating a moderate, sustainable business.

Maria Botta

Marietta, GA

2013-04-05

I invested heavily in my education at Thunderbird and do not want to see my investment aligned with a less than stellar organization like Laureate. This move is not consistent withe the Thunderbird brand that I invested my time and money into.

Luis Pereira

Miramar, FL

2013-04-05

I want to keep the quality of the education at Thunderbird at very high standards. MBA '05

Sol Dworkin

Dallas, TX

2013-04-05

I went to Thunderbird for its uniquely practical instruction and opportunity to learn among a widely diverse population. Personal contact with people and first-hand experience with different cultures were critical success factors in my now more than 30 year career. Schools such as University of Phoenix serve a purpose, but not this purpose. Before AGSIM, Thunderbird loses any more credibility care should rather be taken to upgrade its academic reputation It is no longer unique as an institution at which students engage and specialize in global management studies. T'bird '82!

Olivier Portet

Orinda, CA

2013-04-05

In a t-bird alum and think this will dilute Thunderbird brand name and reputation.

Justin Espineli

Japan

2013-04-06

I have done extensive research on for-profit education as a recent business school applicant and matriculating T-bird. Currently, the public opinion of forprofit educational systems is very negative. I believe it is in Thunderbird's best interest to suspend the proposed partnership with Laureate. The immediate dilution of the Thunderbird brand will outweigh any capital support Thunderbird receives. In the long run, this partnership may signal Thunderbird's decline as top-ranked business school.

Kelly Connors

sonoma, CA

2013-04-06

the reupation of Thunderbird

Name Melville Brown

Location Gabarone, Botswana, Botswana

Date 2013-04-06

Comment This parnership represents the latest step in the long decline of T-Bird as a unique educational paradigm. First we lost the wisdom of professors who have 'Been there, Done that' in favor of academic professionals. The emphasis has shifted 180 degrees away from practical instruction to academic theory which has proven to be no different than the wrong-headed approach of other institutions, Over the years we lost the uniqueness of native speakers as language instructors because they didn't have the academic qualifications required to meet acreditation requirements. The school has lost its original mission of preparing US citizens for living and working internationall and has become a training ground for wealthy foreign students (no one esle can afford the tuition) who do not add value to the T-Bird reputation when they only return to their home country--or stay in the US. I fully agree with the statement in the petition that "this proposal is a short-sighted and ill-advised solution that will cause permanent and irreparable harm to the Thunderbird brand, ranking, and academic reputation." As an early gradutate of the Toot (June '69) who was awarded the Distigusished Alumni Award in 2005 and has lived and worked internationally for over 40 years (I am currently emplyed by the Government of Botswana and living in Gaborone--at age 69!) I believe my opinion on this matter should carry some weight. Sincerely, Mel Brown

Luis Cargiulo

Panama, Panama

2013-04-06

I believe that the partnership or merger will have a negative effect on the Thunderbird Brand and reputation. I am against the merger.

George Bradbury IV

Surprise, AZ

2013-04-06

I think the partnership destroys the core principals of Thunderbird and will very quickly make the degree worth far less than it is today.

Abdias Basto

Panam, Panama

2013-04-06

I'm enrolled in an executive program with Tbird and Tec de Monterrey and I totally agree with the facts expossed here. I strongly disagree with this partnership and I'm in favour of the suspension of such joint venture.

Rob Angstadt

Chesapeake, VI

2013-04-06

While examining my options of graduate schools, I ran across Laureate Education, Inc. under the guise of the University of Liverpool. Despite the University's outstanding reputation and ranking, a quick google search informed me that the University of Liverpool had very little to do with this program, and that not even the school's professors were teaching the courses. I chose Thunderbird because of the quality of education I received and its global prestige. Without these two things, my MBA is of little value. Please maintain the integrity of the Thunderbird brand and discontinue this partnership immediately.

Nick Tillmann Alejandro EspondaBerrios

Houston, TX Weston, FL

2013-04-06 2013-04-06

To protect the integrity of the Thunderbird brand. I'm very concern with how Thunderbird has been mangaged the last couple of years, this would be a disaster for the Thunderbird brand.

Name Leonardo Gonzalez Lopez

Location Frisco, TX

Date 2013-04-06

Comment I don't see how partnering with a lower ranking institution elevates the Thunderbird brand. I appreciate the hard work of the people who participate creating future growth paths for Thunderbird and organizing this alternative, and given the fundamental flaws of this strategy and the potential impact it could have on our School's reputation, we urge you to reconsider a different road to continue building a premiere global education institution. As you can see in this list, you can count with a very diverse group of alumni who care for the school and are willing to contribute to this process with great ideas and smart work. Leonardo Gonzalez

Ahmed Mouti

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

2013-04-06

this selling out of the Thunderbird name will further dilute the brand, and as a result cheapen the value of the degree.

Name Michael Goodsite

Location Herning, Denmark

Date 2013-04-06

Comment
As a very proud Thunderbird graduate who as since maintained a very close academic relationship my School, I am joining this petition because I am not at all following the rationale for the partnership. I strongly encourage the leadership of Thunderbird to have their communications department reevaluate how and what they have communicated to the Alumni. What does Laureate get out of this partnership? I am wondering: why would Laureate expand their portfolio with a partner where it is not clear how they differentiate from another partner already in their network? The reason that I ask this is that Laureate has already partnered with the University of Liverpool and even expanded its international collaboration (see the announcement made in 2007: <a href="https://news.liv.ac.uk/2007/04/30/university-of-liverpool-and-laureate-announceexpanded-international-collaboration/" rel="nofollow">https://news.liv.ac.uk/2007/04/30/university-of-liverpool-and-laureateannounce-expanded-international-collaboration/</a> ). I am wondering if anyone could brief what the realised benefits for the U. of Liverpool have been since the above announcement? What is the gap identified that the UoL is not fulfilling in the Laureate market and how will Thunderbird fill it? The University of Liverpool has produced (to the best of my knowledge) eight Nobel Laureates (during the period of 1902 to 1995). Granted, I find it difficult to directly link these esteemed scholars with an MBA in Global Management - still the University is arguably a standout amongst the current partners in the Laureate portfolio ( <a href="http://www.laureate.net/OurNetwork" rel="nofollow">http://www.laureate.net/OurNetwork</a> ). Examining the online offerings of the University of Liverpool, I find: <a href="http://www.liv.ac.uk/study/online/index.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.liv.ac.uk/study/online/index.htm</a> that they include a MBA with a specialisation in International Business. So again, what exactly does Laureate hope to gain? The announcement focusses on what Thunderbird will gain (<a href="http://www.laureate.net/LGGSite/LGG/OurNetwork/Highlights/2013/03/Thunderbird% 20Plans%20Partnership%20With%20Laureate%20Education%20Inc%20Expands%20Glo bal%20Presence.aspx)" rel="nofollow">http://www.laureate.net/LGGSite/LGG/OurNetwork/Highlights/2013/03/Thun derbird%20Plans%20Partnership%20With%20Laureate%20Education%20Inc%20Expand s%20Global%20Presence.aspx)</a> but does not explain just how Thunderbird will differentiate itself from other Laureate online offerings - including those from the very successful University of Liverpool? In other words, if I were a student in Europe or elsewhere, who has decided to study online, why exactly would I choose Thunderbird over the University of Liverpool in the Laureate network? Why would I choose a new Bachelor Degree from Thunderbird and pay for it, when many of the National Universities in the market that the Network covers offer already well established programmes with very competitively priced bachelor degrees in Business. The University also offers Doctorates as part of their online portfolio, so students could conceivably continue study to the highest academic level. As an academic leader and alumni, I would be happy to examine the possibilities for Thunderbird in an advisory role to the BoT together with other stakeholders and independent experts. I am quite certain that there are many external (to the BoT) experts with experience in international educational management, maybe even among the alumni, who if given access to the options that the BoT said that they considered, could provide independent insight which might even end up endorsing the decision. As the situation stands now, I as an alumni feel left out of the process and concerned that my degree may be devaluated, a concern that I have had since experiencing a drop in relevant MBA rankings. I strongly encourage Dr. Penley and the BoT to appoint an independent evaluation team to assess the options for our School. As an alumni I would be happy to serve and I am quite certain that any of us would. We all want the best for Thunderbird and the communication to us so far regarding this decision has unfortunately not been compelling, convincing or presented in a rigorous manner. At the time I am signing this petition, I can see that 755 people have already signed this, I hope therefore that the leadership addresses our concerns. I think we are all trying to formulate these in an open and constructive manner, so that we may wholeheartedly continue to support the actions of our schools leadership and help it succeed. Sincerely, Michael Goodsite Ph.D.

Samuel Aleman

Spain

2013-04-06

Deeply concerned about what this partnership will do to our loved school's academic reputation and brand value.

Name Michael Goodsite

Location Herning, Denmark

Date 2013-04-06

Comment
As a very proud Thunderbird graduate who as since maintained a very close academic relationship my School, I am joining this petition because I am not at all following the rationale for the partnership. I strongly encourage the leadership of Thunderbird to have their communications department reevaluate how and what they have communicated to the Alumni. What does Laureate get out of this partnership? I am wondering: why would Laureate expand their portfolio with a partner where it is not clear how they differentiate from another partner already in their network? The reason that I ask this is that Laureate has already partnered with the University of Liverpool and even expanded its international collaboration (see the announcement made in 2007: <a href="https://news.liv.ac.uk/2007/04/30/university-of-liverpool-and-laureate-announceexpanded-international-collaboration/" rel="nofollow">https://news.liv.ac.uk/2007/04/30/university-of-liverpool-and-laureateannounce-expanded-international-collaboration/</a> ). I am wondering if anyone could brief what the realised benefits for the U. of Liverpool have been since the above announcement? What is the gap identified that the UoL is not fulfilling in the Laureate market and how will Thunderbird fill it? The University of Liverpool has produced (to the best of my knowledge) eight Nobel Laureates (during the period of 1902 to 1995). Granted, I find it difficult to directly link these esteemed scholars with an MBA in Global Management - still the University is arguably a standout amongst the current partners in the Laureate portfolio ( <a href="http://www.laureate.net/OurNetwork" rel="nofollow">http://www.laureate.net/OurNetwork</a> ). Examining the online offerings of the University of Liverpool, I find: <a href="http://www.liv.ac.uk/study/online/index.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.liv.ac.uk/study/online/index.htm</a> that they include a MBA with a specialisation in International Business. So again, what exactly does Laureate hope to gain? The announcement focusses on what Thunderbird will gain (<a href="http://www.laureate.net/LGGSite/LGG/OurNetwork/Highlights/2013/03/Thunderbird% 20Plans%20Partnership%20With%20Laureate%20Education%20Inc%20Expands%20Glo bal%20Presence.aspx)" rel="nofollow">http://www.laureate.net/LGGSite/LGG/OurNetwork/Highlights/2013/03/Thun derbird%20Plans%20Partnership%20With%20Laureate%20Education%20Inc%20Expand s%20Global%20Presence.aspx)</a> but does not explain just how Thunderbird will differentiate itself from other Laureate online offerings - including those from the very successful University of Liverpool? In other words, if I were a student in Europe or elsewhere, who has decided to study online, why exactly would I choose Thunderbird over the University of Liverpool in the Laureate network? Why would I choose a new Bachelor Degree from Thunderbird and pay for it, when many of the National Universities in the market that the Network covers offer already well established programmes with very competitively priced bachelor degrees in Business. The University also offers Doctorates as part of their online portfolio, so students could conceivably continue study to the highest academic level. As an academic leader and alumni, I would be happy to examine the possibilities for Thunderbird in an advisory role to the BoT together with other stakeholders and independent experts. I am quite certain that there are many external (to the BoT) experts with experience in international educational management, maybe even among the alumni, who if given access to the options that the BoT said that they considered, could provide independent insight which might even end up endorsing the decision. As the situation stands now, I as an alumni feel left out of the process and concerned that my degree may be devaluated, a concern that I have had since experiencing a drop in relevant MBA rankings. I strongly encourage Dr. Penley and the BoT to appoint an independent evaluation team to assess the options for our School. As an alumni I would be happy to serve and I am quite certain that any of us would. We all want the best for Thunderbird and the communication to us so far regarding this decision has unfortunately not been compelling, convincing or presented in a rigorous manner. At the time I am signing this petition, I can see that 755 people have already signed this, I hope therefore that the leadership addresses our concerns. I think we are all trying to formulate these in an open and constructive manner, so that we may wholeheartedly continue to support the actions of our schools leadership and help it succeed. Sincerely, Michael Goodsite PhD

Zyanya Bejarano

Los Angeles, CA

2013-04-06

Worried about reputation of MBA program and my investment in choice of education

Name Rick Lee

Location Gurnee, IL

Date 2013-04-06

Comment This proposed partnership with Laureate Education, Inc. would damage Thunderbird academic reputation!

barry miller elias zaga buzali

Chicago, IL mexico df, Mexico

2013-04-06 2013-04-06

Maintain the value of my degree We need to make sure the Thunderbird name is still valued as much tomorrow as it was when we decided to link our names to it.

James Fink

Japan

2013-04-06

I have supported the school with donations and introductions of students. If we need a partner why not find a high quality merger like The Monterey Institute of International Studies made with Middlebury College instead of destroying the brand.

Michel Cardenas

Mexico

2013-04-06

Here in Mexico Laurete is consider a third tier University and I think the image Thunderbird offers is completely different from the one that Laurete does. This partnership would damage the reputation of Thunderbird, which would be associated in Mexico as a third tier institution. Here in Mexico Thunderbird brand is not known by many people, but Laurete's brand recognition as a place for studies that are both cheap and with low acceptance requirements is known nation wide.

Mike Robinson

Smyrna, GA

2013-04-06

Laureate is a suspect institution. My wife was a teacher in the public school system for years and would actively discourage parents from enrolling their kids in Laureate (Sylvan at that time). The focus is on the dollars and not the education. This is not a wise move for Thunderbird. I would expect more from the institution that has so many professors that I maintain in such high esteem. We are better than this kind of thinking.

Michael Crotty

Shanghai, China

2013-04-07

As a 1974 graduate with many years being associated in the alumni association, I can attest that the Thunderbird Mystique is a very unique and powerful network. Aligning ourselves with the "for profit" academic sector will definitely compromise this Network and cheapen the brand. I am sure there were other options being considered and it would be a wise decision for the school to share those with the alumni and reconsider this proposed partnership.

Juan Serrano

Aventura, FL

2013-04-07

Thunderbird is so fragile to loose its ranking and fall into a massive and cheap brand.

Jorge Pedraza

Miramar, FL

2013-04-07

I have not been shown any evidence as to how this will be beneficial to adding value to the Thunderbird Brand or or to my Alumni worldwide.

Juan Corral

Mexico

2013-04-07

This partnership is a shame... the current partnerships with the ITESM will be degraded

Patrick Moggridge Sandra Maycotte

Phoenix, AZ Mexico

2013-04-07 2013-04-07

Keeping our brand strong does not include any affiliation with Laureate. Laureate is associated in Mexico with the UVM university (Universidad del Valle de Mexico) which lacks academic prestige and quality certifications. It would be very disappointing to see the Thunderbird brand associated with this university.

Maria Alcala

San pedro garza garcia, Mexico

2013-04-07

Value of brand

Ricardo Garcia Susan Caolo

Mexico Atlanta, GA

2013-04-07 2013-04-07

Thunderbird alumni I'm signing because I cannot trust our Thunderbird Board of Trustees' judgement based on all the past poor decisions leading to this desperate effort to cover financial debts. I think this Laureate partnership will cheapen our TBird brand.

Name Shri Sundaram

Location Sunnyvale, CA

Date 2013-04-07

Comment I agree with some of the comments. Can't let T-Bird brand be diluted. We must maintain our independence and exclusivity.

Cheryl Wilson van Tilburg

Singapore, Singapore

2013-04-07

Class of '86. I'm would like to see a cooling-off period before this deal is inked. There are too many questions -- and too high a price to pay for alums if things go wrong -- to hurry this deal along.

Janet Caristo-Verrill ShaoPing Paul Pan Thomas Steck

Wayland, MA Taipei, Taiwan, Taiwan Germany

2013-04-07 2013-04-07 2013-04-07

Why is this important to you?I want(Optional) I care about my school. This issue/scandal is already damaging the reputation of the USA / Thunderbird MBA degree in Germany (First hand information of a new colleague at my company).

Karina Larsen O'Halloran

Zurich, Switzerland

2013-04-07

I am proud of being a T-bird and happy to have a 'real' MBA degree vs. so many I come across that list degrees from schools I always question the value of.

Nancy Frohman

Singapore, Singapore

2013-04-07

I graduated from what was the top school for graduate international educationnot a for profit on line university. Please don't align Thunderbird with this calibre of degree!

Sandra Parr

Londonderry, NH

2013-04-07

In my career in global business I can tell you that the Thunderbird name is globally respected in a way that the brands of this partner are not. This partnership simply does not make sense.

Jukka Majanen

Singapore, Singapore

2013-04-07

We went there for the Thunderbird experience. It was called the Thunderbird Mystique then. That shared experience what bonds us. It should not be diluted in any way. Laureate partners are a very different bunch. "Oil and water don't mix".

gina henry Ajoy Philip

austin, TX Latvia

2013-04-07 2013-04-07

We must make sure we keep the integrity of Thunderbird. The value of the Thunderbird graduate degree can be significantly affected if the mode and quality of degrees offered with proposed partners is anything less than world class. If not properly managed, such degrees can lower student quality, standards of the degree and corporate recognition of the Thunderbird brand for international business. The harm can be long term and not easily repaired

Arturo Melendez

Mexico

2013-04-07

Financially is a good decision, but brand reputation will be damage as we know it for sure. Education is changing and maybe the way of ranking education will do also. But maybe the real challenge for us is to keep THUNDERBIRD name alive thanks to our good works and leadership. if we want this, we better present solutions, that will increase the number of students that will become loyal T-Birds in the near future. And we better do it now, to avoid this.

Marcela Rojo Humberto Padilla

Mexico Mexico

2013-04-07 2013-04-07

. This is vital for me as I have spent money and time, devoting resources and efforts to getting my MBA and now my university will partner with Laurate Education, an university that is regarded as the worst quality in Mexico? No way! I urge the BOT to revoke this partnership as this move will KILL the Thunderbird brand and image. Not only will new students not opt for this school but current students and graduates will loose identity and the pride that we have in the school. Even if in financial distress, NO UNIVERSITY IS ENTITLED TO REDUCE AND CHEAPEN THE VALUE OF THE TITLES OF THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS THAT MADE A LOT OF EFFORT TO GET THAT TITLE, IT IS LIKE ROBBING THEM. Please stop this move and rather use all the expertise of the professors and alumni to think of a better solution.

Vipon Kumar

Conshohocken, PA

2013-04-07

I want to keep the Thunderbird mystique alive..

Name Trevor Norris

Location Lima, Peru, Peru

Date 2013-04-08

Comment At T-Bird, concepts surrounding "stakeholders" was drilled in every managment class. Thunderbird has no greater group of staeholders than its famed alumni, now multigenerational global alumni. Excluding alumni from the process, and even denying transparent disclosure is a terifically hipocritical decision by current management, which by definition is more transitory than the alunmi body.

Ron Fulmer

Mountain View, CA

2013-04-08

I strongly urge you to suspend the proposed partnership. Moving forward would destroy the Thunderbird Mystique.

Alex Dubrovskiy

Moscow, Russian Federation

2013-04-08

I share all concerns raised by Mr Piper and fully support this petition.

Sergio Ortega Eric Johnson Drew Smith

Fair Oaks, CA Ardmore, TN St. Paul, MN

2013-04-08 2013-04-08 2013-04-08

My MBA title will lose value with the proposed partnership. When schools become for profit, it's about the profit, not the education. This is a short-sighted decision. Choosing a for-profit/PE-owned partner introduces a mis-alignment of interests that will hurt the Thunderbird brand in the long run.

Walter Baker

Tampa, FL

2013-04-08

Partnerships like this do not happen overnight. This has obviously been in the works at a board level for far longer than the new President has been in office. (Was it a reason Dr. Cabrera left?) Given that, one could assume Dr. Penley knew about it prior to accepting the position. This begs the question as to how many candidates for the position were either not interested or scared off by this pending transaction. In other words, did we get the best candidate for the position based on this transaction, or just the one who was willing to put up with this joint venture? In closing, Thunderbird has both a unique and differentiated position in the world of advanced business education. One that has been both acknowledged and embraced by both corporate and comparable institutions. In my opinion, rather than enter into an ill advised relationship with a for profit entity, the school would be better served to identify and recruit for two key positions: First, a proven and world-class fundraiser who can ensure the school has a sustainable future through the creation of a significant endowment. Secondly, a proven leader who has the vision, leadership style, and global credibility to ensure the progress made to date is secure, and expand that reputation to allow the school to maintain it both its independence and leadership position in the field of Global Management.

Mario Plata

Bogot, Colombia

2013-04-08

Llinking the Thunderbird brand to a For-Profit education entity as Laureate will diminish its quality perception. As a consequence, its value for employers will be affected, even if its just by a matter of perception, As the spanish adage says: ni importa solo serlo, sino parecerlo (it not only mattters to be, but to have the appearance of it)

Name Fernandez Luis Fernando

Location Mexico City, Mexico

Date 2013-04-08

Comment The greatest concern in regards to this partnership between Thunderbird and Laureate Education is that our school hasn't open a discussion with all the Tbird community. This move can have a significant impact in how Thunderbird is seen around the globe and thus the BOT should open discussion. I myself don't know enough about Laureate Education but that in itself tells us that such institution does not carry a global reputation which could enhance "Thunderbird's Mystique" as a top notch International MBA program. I sincerely hope that the T-bird management take pause and let our voices be heard.

Scott Stallwood

Flemington, NJ

2013-04-08

This is very disturbing for a number of reasons, but first in no way does an affiliation with Laureate enhance the Thunderbird brand and will undoubtedly have the opposite effect in the marketplace. Laureate is not on anybody's list of top learning institutions and neither are any of the schools with which they have affiliations. The Thunderbird reputation and prestige will be lost and the value of the degree will correspondingly suffer. This short-sighted and illadvised partnership should be stopped.

Amy Havekost

Hoboken, NJ

2013-04-08

I'm also concerned this dilutes the Thunderbird brand. When people who are familiar with Thunderbird find out I went there, they are always impressed and I don't want to cheapen that. Occasionally, someone who isn't familiar with Thunderbird asks me if it's an online degree program. I certainly don't want to be in a position where I have to defend that. I understand the need/desire to partner with other institutions - especially overseas. Those institutions should have the same, if not better, academics and reputation as Thunderbird. If there are other reasons for doing this, please be transparent with the alumni. We've all invested in Thunderbird. It's in our best interest to do whatever possible to protect its name and brand.

Suneet Ashburn Daniel Cody

Lexington, KY Santa Monica, CA

2013-04-08 2013-04-08

This move will dilute the Thunderbird Brand irrevocably. I strongly oppose this decision to go to market with a for-profit "educational" entity. It dilutes the brand and endorses poor public policy. I strongly encourage the current administration to reassess this decision and listen to the alumni and friends of the school.

Enrique Madrigal

Mexico

2013-04-08

Is very important to maintain the value of the Thunderbird Brand. A partnership like this will put on risk this great school. A for-profit institution is just for profit, nothing else.

Scott Williams

Shanghai, China

2013-04-08

Alumni is in the dark on this. Many have never heard of Laureate Education. Who are they, what are their strengths and weaknesses and why are they a good match for the number one private international graduate institution globally? It is not clear and it should be.

Michael Haerting C. Ross Croulet

Miami, FL Lake Worth, FL

2013-04-09 2013-04-09

It seems like a quick fix ignoring deeper problems To maintain the value and power of the Thunderbird brand for the graduate degrees for which we worked hard to earn. Would we turn Harvard University over to the Univ. of Phoenix? I don't think so, and so should you on maintaining the reality and legend that is Thunderbird.

Steven Sarwin

Richardson, TX

2013-04-09

I will no longer be supporting Thunderbird financially or otherwise if their leadership decides to transform to the despicable and cheap Univ of Pheonix or Walden model.

Name John Hager

Location miami, FL

Date 2013-04-09

Comment While an association with perhaps some other recognized institution of higher learning that has established credentials and whose longer-term vision shares that of maintaining the historical preeminence of the Thunderbird reputation while adapting to an everchanging global environment may be beneficial, it is clear that the announced but ill-considered alignment with a for-profit institution like Laureate does not further this goal and will only contribute to diluting the Thunderbird brand in the coming years. I propose that this merger be suspended for now and that a fundamental review of the process and the reasons behind it be held with the engagement of the full alumni community and the other stakeholders to evaluate what other options exist if some kind of financial fix is required. A hasty decision of this kind may very well result in the erosion of alumni support for years into the future.

F. Bruno De La Mata Alberto Cruz

Carlsbad, CA Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

2013-04-09 2013-04-09

Thunderbird had a great reputation but this move is selling the reputation to the Brand name dilution

Jim Peebles

Panama, Panama

2013-04-09

Thunderbird's Legacy is to teach global managers. Not to be the marionette of Sylvan OnLine Learning and lampooned in Doonesbury

Hani Khouri

Miami, FL

2013-04-09

When I was at Thunderbird in the 1970's and Mr. Voris was the president of the school and it was called American graduate School of International Management. My degree is an MIM not an MBA. Had I wanted am MBA, I could have stayed at the graduate programme I was in, but it was weak on international business and management. Thunderbird had already devalued the degree by switching to an MBA programme instead of keeping the MIM. The School did offer to have the MBA degree replace the MIM! I wonder how many alumni made the switch?! That was a one calendar year degree. No breaks. It was more like boot camp, especially if your dorm room was in the barracks. Thunderbird can't become a "pay your fees, get your B's" for profit school, or even linked with Laureate. Comparable institutions to the ones that Laureate operates are, for example; DeVry, Kaplan College & ITT Technical Institute. I wouldn't want my heard earned degree which has served me well to be degraded. I join other alumni in urging you to suspend the joint venture with Laureate.

Mark Hornor

Cupertino, CA

2013-04-09

The propose partnership will cheapen the Thunderbird brand. It makes no sense.

Geoff Horsfield

Yorba Linda, CA

2013-04-09

I laugh (quietly) at online MBA degrees and in the faces of University of Phoenix so-called graduates........ And I laugh at their certificates on the wall.

Emilio Margarit

Spain

2013-04-09

Because I am proud to be a T-bird, and, yes, th once powerful Thunderbird prestige has beenn already diluted enough. It is time to stop the hemorraging and look for other strategic soulution, but Laureate Education has to be th worst of all options. Please keep th Thunderbird mistique alive !!!!

Albertina Gonzalo

Posada de Valden, Spain

2013-04-09

I am a T-Bird and I donot agree with this proposal that will downgrade Thunderbird High Level Education.

Marc Petznick

Bay Harbor Islands, FL

2013-04-09

Harm to the Thunderbird brand, ranking, and academic reputation

Name Pamela Frank

Location Boston, MA

Date 2013-04-09

Comment This will indeed dilute the brand, which will affect recruitment and overall rankings. I realize I also have to take ownership in this situation because I have not given enough of my annual donations to Thunderbird. Quite honestly I was unaware of how dire the Financial situation was. I hope that if we are successful at blocking this partnership, every opposing voice will make Thunderbird a priority in their annual contributions going forward. I certainly will.

Dean McCaskill

Paris, TX

2013-04-09

Laureate is a 'for profit' diploma factory and Thunderbird will not benefit from any association with them.

Erendiora Hernandez Maria del Pilar Cordoba Algara

Mexico Mexico

2013-04-09 2013-04-09

Tbird graduate. I'm a Thunderbird Alumni and care deeply about how this affects my MBA degree, I wish Thunderbird to keep it's excellent reputation and educational standing.

Frank Corbishley

Coral Gables, FL

2013-04-09

I have always been skeptical of for-profit "universities," and many others are as well. Educational instiltutions should be about academic freedom and teaching people how to think, not abouit promoting the ideology or self-interest of the Board of Directors of a for-profit corporation. For me, by partnering with Laureate, Thunderbird would become absolutely meaningless.

Christopher Bates Emilio Lamar Jaime ( a.k.a.jimmy) Sanchez Warren Feller

Taipei, Taiwan coral gables, FL rockwall, TX

2013-04-09 2013-04-09 2013-04-09

Tbird class of 1978 wrong direction downgrade of brand image which is most import school asset

Fort Lauderdale, FL

2013-04-09

I do not want the Thunderbird brand diluted, as associating with Laureate will surely dol

Gregg Lee

Emmett, ID

2013-04-09

Thunderbird is not a vocational school. Partnering with Sylvan Learning Centers is a step in the wrong direction for the purposes of securing funding. Transforming Thunderbird to a glorified "University of Phoenix" is most disappointing. Please reconsider this idea before it is too late for all of us.

Alex Hawk

SCOTTSDALE, AZ

2013-04-09

Dear T-birds, what we are saying here is: the dialogue is needed and so is the change. This movement is not to suspend the change but to engage all the potent leadership Thunderbird has produced thus far and make it work towards the expansion of the brand, not collapse as many may see it. Seems like this is how 40,000 global leaders that were once charged to create sustainable prosperity worldwide are simply refusing to exclude the home ground from the prosperity creation process. This conversation about profit vs. not-for-profit is outdated. The world is moving way faster than these labels. We are capable of developing our own unique model and while providing world class inspiration and education still be financially sound. Let's focus on this instead of just trying to stop or stall change. We can do better than that. We have talented communicators and facilitators among t-birds - let's have a new round of global dialogues and together with faculty, alumni and administration re-design our future. Respectfully,

Name Lamar Stone

Location San Antonio, TX

Date 2013-04-09

Comment I would prefer to have the the school suffer slightly more in the short term, only to retool and resurface (like the Phoenix) under our own aegis. At least then the school would be more beholden to its founding principles and, subsequently, its own destiny. This would preserve the mystique and allow for more input and/or support from the alumni base. It is embarrassing to see large recent gifts, a la Garvin, seemingly evaporate so quickly to necessitate a decision like this. My fellow graduates have made very good arguments on this petition and those should be weighted at least on par with this potentially lethal "strategic" decision.

Morgan Siegal Terry Burton

Scottsdale, AZ Fort Myers, FL

2013-04-09 2013-04-09

Brand strength I do not trust for profit education. ITT Tech is a prime example of mismanagement.

Gerardo Rodriguez Nancy Cubillos

Monterrey, Mexico Bogota, Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of

2013-04-09 2013-04-09

To keep improving it. I am a student of Global MBA for Latin American Managers

Bryan Dsouza Hector Esparza

Bellevue, WA Mexico

2013-04-09 2013-04-09

Because I graduated from Thunderbird I still remember my first conversation with recruiters before starting my MBA and my decision to study at Thunderbird was based on the quality and reputation of the school that was discussed during several interviews with recruiters. The partnership with Laureate Education Inc will only deteriorate the reputation of Thunderbird as they have not the same quality and standards in education. I disagree with the partnership and I highly recommend to reassess this decision.

Oliver Aponte ricardo bolanos Frederick Suarez

Guadalajara, Mexico Mexico Miami, FL

2013-04-09 2013-04-09 2013-04-09

I'm an alumni and I don't think this is benefical for the institution. Thunderbird number one, lauerate, JUST BUSINESS Partnership will ruin our position as top grad school for International Management . Laureate is a vulture business with no image ,credibility or rating.

Amit Airon

Stafford, TX

2013-04-09

I am a T-bird and I dont want to see its brand getting diluted. Thunderbird is already in trouble. I dont want to see it getting deeper in it.

Harold Brown

Billings, MT

2013-04-09

Because I'm a '71 Grad concerned about the school's future and I'm opposed to change for change's sake. Adjust to the needs of the market, but to change T'bird's product to a "for profit" academic institution would sully the reputation compare Walden to Williams for Academic excellence.

Gabriela Montenegro

San Salvador, El Salvador

2013-04-10

it represents the school reputation and differentiation, and ultimately the value of my investment in obtaining my Masters Degree and of my fellow t-bird mates.

Julia Collins

Lakewood, OH

2013-04-10

Thunderbird = Competing Through People, Leading Change, Data Analysis, Global Strategy, Global Marketing. Laureate = Easy Access to Education. Thunderbird + Laureate Partnership = No More Mystique

Heidi Stephens Metz Martha McCaskill

Kirkland, United States Longview, TX

2013-04-10 2013-04-10

Laureate is not a good choice of partner Because as a graduate, I'd like to see the school keep its reputation for excellence.

Jessica Quezada

Mexico, Mexico

2013-04-10

I chose this MBA because the importance of the university and the importance of it by giving me a certain status in my resume and by being in a job that represents the growth and mission of my life followed by the Thunderbird Standards of education. The ideal of this program was the global knowledge and the values it gave me.

Name Michael Greve

Location Miami, FL

Date 2013-04-10

Comment Do not sign any partnership outside of our, the alumni's approval. Do not dilute our brand of Tbird, which should remain its own with no partners!

Andrew Strider

Pleasanton, CA

2013-04-10

This line says it everything you need to know about why this is not the right direction for Thunderbird: "Laureates US flagship product, Walden University, was highlighted in the report. The school spent $1,574 per student on instruction in 2009, compared to $2,230 per student on marketing and $1,915 per student on profit. " 30% more profit that spending per student. I think that sums it up. WRONG FOR THUNDERBIRD. WRONG FOR STUDENTS. WRONG.

ignacio nunez Carlos Quezada

Mexico Ciudad de Mxico, Mexico

2013-04-10 2013-04-10

Quality of education I'm afraid that Thunderbird will lose its independency, also its strong positioning as a social consciousness school and finally the ability to continue educating global leaders.

Patrick Galvin

Portland, OR

2013-04-10

I'm a proud '94 Thunderbird graduate who is very concerned about the partnership with Laureate Education due to that company's questionable business practices. I believe strongly in the adage that "you are the company that you keep." The overall quality of Laureate Education and its affiliated institutions fall far short of what Thunderbird offers.There must be a better way than partnering with Laureate to guarantee a bright future for Thunderbird. Please stop this ill-conceived partnership!

Wesley Schrock

Goshen, IN

2013-04-10

I care about Thunderbird and don't think this partnership is in best interests of school.

Steven Misshula Ivan Amayo

jupiter, FL Miami, FL

2013-04-10 2013-04-10

the reasons are obvious... I would no longer be proud of my Thunderbird degree and would simply tell people I have an MBA instead of having them think I went to a Mickey Mouse online school of extremely dubious quality. Don't do it!

Charles 'Cap' Rucquoi Justin Olson Carlos Carrera

Delray Beach, FL Salt Lake City, UT Mexico

2013-04-10 2013-04-10 2013-04-10

dillutes the brand and my degree As a Thunderbird graduate, I don't want to see further brand dilution. I don't see Laureate just helping Thunderbird, they will take over our university in the future, we need prevent Thunderbird to lose its non-profit heart.

Anabell Iglesias

San Salvador, El Salvador

2013-04-10

A superb, recognized and respected institution such as Thunderbird, will suffer from a partnership with Laureate. I urge you to take a hard look at how the Thunderbird brand will suffer, and how this partnership affects alumni, faculty, research coming out of Thunderbird, and the profile of incoming students. Thunderbird is not meant to be a mass-produced school, it is a unique and differentiated institution that attracts superb candidates from all over the world who share the mindset of global citizenship. The partnership with Laureate will lower the bar.

Andrew Brewer Vibhor Gupta

Lake Charles, LA new york, NY

2013-04-10 2013-04-10

To avoid stripping the mystique and uniqueness of our school I have friend that used to work at laureate and he says its a diploma mill just like university of phoniex where no fortune 500 company would values their degree's. This partnership could mean the same for Thunderbird which is scary.

Alejandro Gonzalez Garcia

Mexico

2013-04-10

In mexico Laureate Education has no reputation at all. I will rather say I studied at ITESM than Thunderbird it that case.

Name Bridget Rodgers (MIM '89) David Dodson

Location Ann Arbor, MI

Date 2013-04-10

Comment Loyalty to the true Thunderbird value.

redwood city, CA

2013-04-10

Making this deal will dilute and devalue our degree and turn this institution into a marketing machine. The value of the degree will be lost as the quality of the students will deminish and the quality of the education diluted. I know this company well and know what it will not be good for the Thunderbird alum or future graduates. I love our school and will be sad to see it lowered dilluted. Being a T-Bird still means something today.

Thomas Nowakowski

Australia

2013-04-11

I am a graduate of Thunderbird and would like protect the principles upon which the school was founded ... Leave its excellence for future generations

Melchor Espinosa Elide Romero Ricardo Ivison Arjan Shahani

Kissimmee, FL Mexico Mexico San Pedro, Mexico

2013-04-11 2013-04-11 2013-04-11 2013-04-11

I strongly agree with all the issues assessed in the letter. I am concerned about in Thunderbird reputation. To keep the T-bird brand , we should not go for this partnership I am a T-Bird and I'm proud of it. In the future, I would want to see the reputation behind my title to increase, not decrease due to being part of a partnership with a questionable institution. I understand the financial situation that is promoting this decision but I am sure there are alternatives.

Billy Kennedy

Pontiac, MI

2013-04-11

I take great pride in the relevance of my Thunderbird degree. This proposed action is NOT congruent to the Thunderbird Mystic". Indeed. it may well be the "Thunderbird Mistake" that kills the school!

Elizabeth Martins

Sao Paulo, Brazil

2013-04-11

Please, please don't wash down the name of the Thunderbird brand by entering this partnership! THunderbird is unique - let's keep it that way!

Julia Stowell Joseph Burke

Toronto, Canada Harare, Zimbabwe

2013-04-11 2013-04-11

Our brand is unique and should never be comprised! If for financial reasons T'bird must partner, then let it pdo so with an outstadning institution not the purveyor of third class distance degreees.an approprate

Jorge Alejandro Martnez

San Pedro Garza Garca, Mexico

2013-04-11

As a Thunderbird I feel that our board should consider a more serios partner with stronger backgrownd, if for example Thunderbird were to partner with Hardvard School of Business I wouldn't have a problem!

Mark Friebel

Palo Alto, CA

2013-04-11

I do not think that it is wise to partner with a for-profit organization. The board only is thinking of today's needs. In the long run, it will tarnish the reputation of the school.

Jeff Snyder Rob Bagby

London, United Kingdom Richmond, United Kingdom

2013-04-11 2013-04-11

An on-line university? You have got to be kidding me. I went to Thunderbird because of it's reputation. Graduates were always so proud of being a TBird (as was I). It seems to me that over the past few years the leaders at Thunderbird have been forgetting some of the basics of business and are simply chasing the almighty dollar. We need to help them understand that they need to re-focus on the core values and mission of Thunderbird: "educating global leaders".

Danial Carlson William Cone

Unionville, IN Miami, FL

2013-04-11 2013-04-11

I am a student at Thunderbird, and I am concerned about the brand. Alumni should have more info and a clearer voice in the discussion. I would like to see a pro and con analysis of why this should or should not happen. It does appear on first review to cheapen the great global brand but I'm open to hear a strong case for the partnership and assurances that it is outside the regular T-bird degree program.

Lora Mazza

Grosse Pointe Farms, MI

2013-04-11

I am concerned that partnering with Laureate will degrade the Thunderbird image.

Name Patrick Dodd

Location Auckland, New Zealand

Date 2013-04-11

Comment I went to Thunderbird because of it's reputation. Graduates were always so proud of being a TBird (as was I). It seems to me that over the past few years the leaders at Thunderbird have been forgetting some of the basics of business and are simply chasing the almighty dollar. We need to help them understand that they need to re-focus on the core values and mission of Thunderbird: "educating global leaders".

Susan Duby Edward Chenard

Corona del Mar, CA Eden Prairie, MN

2013-04-11 2013-04-12

Devalues the Thunderbird name and cheapens the Thunderbird brand I am very familiar with Laureate and their poor practices. This is one of the worst ideas I have ever seen. Use some of that business and strategy brainpower to come up with a better solution, like fixing recruiting practices. Do that and you won't need these kind of deals. Laureate has a bad rep, don't harm our careers with this move.

Scott Sheridan

Lexington, KY

2013-04-12

The Thunderbird brand and reputation should be paramount to any short-term financial issues that the school is encountering.

Jim McGough

Northbrook, IL

2013-04-12

In the 21st century increasingly what makes you different makes you standout. We want to be "selectively famous" and resonating with the types of people Thunderbird has always attracted. The proposed alliance will forever change this.

Michael Greve

Miami, FL

2013-04-12

The lack of understating of what this new relationship means for Thunderbird's market position and the harm it will cause its reputation should concern anyone who has been part of its history as a student or faculty. This decision flies in the face of everything that the institution represents. It is a myopic, shortsighted and based on an irrational proposal for a school of such stature. I urge that this decision be reconsidered.

Leslie Sturino

Doha, Qatar, Qatar

2013-04-12

The proposed deal will diminish the value of my degree. This will be very damaging to the careers of all T-bird alumni.

Jacob Young

Washington, DC

2013-04-12

I am a Thunderbird/Indiana Dual Degree alum. My cohort and I spent two and half years working for degrees from two institutions that are independently strong and in which we have great pride. I don't want to see any alum's hard work diluted and diminished by a partnership that is not inline with what we worked so hard to achieve.

Peggy (Margaret) Angevine Ying Wang Pedro Cejas

Madison, WI

2013-04-12

It 'cheapens' our TBird brand.

Shanghai, China Coral Gables, FL

2013-04-12 2013-04-12

I care about Thunderbird, very much! The Thunderbird brand was not built overnight, and with this move it will most likely be destroyed in seconds. The administration appears to have lost focus on Thunderbirds core strengths and succumb to short-sighted decisions that I can only assume are purely based on immediate potential economic benefits. The problem with looking short-term is that these types of decisions tend not to contribute to long term success. The Thunderbird brand has value to potential students, new students and alumni alike. I fear that this decision will dilute my degree to the point where I may consider removing it from my bio. Please reconsider.

Sharon Cook

San Francisco, CA

2013-04-12

As an alumni of Thunderbird I want to protect the integrity of the school for future students. I want them to have the opportunity that I did to receive a top tier masters degree in International Business through a unique program that offers great interaction across borders because of the high quality of international students enrolled in the program.

Alejandra Elsea

New Rochelle, NY

2013-04-12

Disagree strongly!!!

Name fabienne rodet

Location San Jose, CA

Date 2013-04-12

Comment We need to maintain the credibility of our institution. Thunderbird was once a top name school - it was why I chose the program.

Curt Howell William Darby

Indianapolis, IN Atlanta, GA

2013-04-12 2013-04-12

I want to preserve the mystique There was time when my degree from Thunderbird was worth more than 40 pieces of silver. What an utter betrayal of what was once a proud tradition, a top tier school, and a true differentiator in the business world!

Wayne Seewald

Houston, TX

2013-04-12

As a Tbird graduate I do not want to see the Thunderbird name associated with an online for profit instituion. If this occurs I will end any further donations to Thunderbird.

Philip Dursey

Tucson, AZ

2013-04-12

There are better options. Look at what Stanford is doing in this space, open source learning platforms are more consistent with Thunderbird's mission, more secure and more flexible. Clearly class2go and others are superior. Don'ts cheapen the brand, elevate it with the ethical pressure of open source.

Greg Fitzgerald Gabriel Areas Anne Friberg

Austin, TX Miami, FL New York, NY

2013-04-12 2013-04-12 2013-04-13

In favor of expanding T-bird brand but need to be careful in process. Alumni The school's reputation is all that matters and is jeopardized by this partnership.

Ching Wang

milpitas, CA

2013-04-13

So expected the good changes will come along the new president. Apparently not, it's getting worse. Please hold and protect T-bird brand as premium.

Theo van der Loo Victor Pedrosa Tara Tamboowalla

So Paulo, Brazil Miami Beach, FL Collegeville, PA

2013-04-13 2013-04-13 2013-04-13

I am concerned about the impact on Thunderbird's reputation. School quality and reputation I am willing to say what perhaps others may not. Degrees from for profit institutions do not carry the same weight as those from traditional Universities. I have been an HR Manager hiring at all levels since graduating as a proud Tbird. For profit degrees are discounted, do not devalue my degree.

Jaime Ayala Jose Papa Neto

Mexico So Paulo, Brazil

2013-04-13 2013-04-13

To keep the tradition of the Thunderbird. Today's business education environment definitively requires bold initiatives. I must say though that scaling at any cost is short sighted and potentially destructive on the long road. I have to agree with the dismay of many within the Thunderbird community. Here in Brazil, and, as I understand now, all over its network, Laureate operates second and third tier programs and schools. Only time will prove the success of this venture, but then, it might be too late.

Pattie Craumer

Great Falls, MT

2013-04-13

Affiliation with a for profit organization like Laureate and its former name Sylvan Learning says to the world that Thunderbird is a 'commodity' school. Let's not descend to the depths of commercialism at the expense of a broader, grander, and deeper mission. I implore you to suspend the partnership you have announced. Thunderbird's strength is in what has already been built.

Michael Byron

Austin, TX

2013-04-13

Having worked in for-profit education. I can concur with the concerns addressed in this petition. MB'94

Christoph Adams

Germany

2013-04-13

Laureate is not good for Thunderbird. Laureate manages 2 schools in Germany and they are not well known. I'm afraid Thunderbird will not benefit from the partnership as much as expected.

Michael Greve

Miami, FL

2013-04-13

The Thunderbird mystique is what drew me to Thunderbird in the 90's. The fiercely independent spirit of T-Bird and its alums is what still draws me to the school. This is not a good partnership, it dilutes the brand and in turn hurts all of us.

Name Michael Lane

Location Chicago, IL

Date 2013-04-13

Comment The Thunderbird mystique is what drew me to Thunderbird in the 90's. The fiercely independent spirit of T-Bird and its alums is what still draws me to the school. This is not a good partnership, it dilutes the brand and in turn hurts all of us.

Eddie Powell

Austin, TX

2013-04-13

This partnership will kill the once great reputation that Thunderbird had. I implore you to find another partner.

Lisa Spicka

White Salmon, WA

2013-04-13

I get it. Thunderbird needs financial stability, improved career services, and increased global operational capacity. But rather than partner with a for-profit company that at best is laughable in distinguished academic circles, why not explore strategic partnerships that will enhance, rather than hurt, our reputation? Better the longer and perhaps more immediately painful road to the right solution, rather than have Thunderbird students, alumni, and faculty state their educational and professional merits are based on a partnership with a for-profit learning center. Please dont make me qualify my (very expensive) education with Well, you see I graduated BEFORE Thunderbird partnered with Laureate.

Jordi Argente

Menlo Park, CA

2013-04-13

While I support creative thinking on distribution channel options for Thunderbird, I do see this one is the right one.

Andrew Rubey Alan Gottlieb Susan Mitchell Luis Osuna Debbie Waitkus

Dallas, TX Arlington, VA New York, NY Mexico Phoenix, AZ

2013-04-13 2013-04-14 2013-04-14 2013-04-14 2013-04-14

Dilution of the Thunderbird brand. T-Bird Graduate. This partnership is nuts. it dilutes TBird and makes it a street level rather than academic educaiton I am an Alumni There is tremendous value in the group learning offered at Thunderbird diverse ideas/experiences in action. The resulting long term relationships are powerful, meaningful and span decades. A merger with Laureate Education cheapens and contradicts the value that Thunderbird brings to the table.

Sarah Barker

Sudbury, MA

2013-04-14

I would like more information to understand how this partnership affect the Thunderbird brand.

JoAnn Mackenzie eliz valas Xiaobo Luo

Lafayette, CO san diego, CA Gaborone, Botswana

2013-04-14 2013-04-15 2013-04-15

Preserve Thunderbird core mission damage and cheapen Thunderbird I'm a new admitted Thunderbird MBA students. I'd like to see the school keep its brand alive.

pamela tomer

cos cob, CT

2013-04-15

This will damage the name of the school to which I chose to spend my money on a degree which carried a certain weight in terms of name/reputation. This would dilute the name and damage the reputation terribly.

Amy Ahlers

San Jose, CA

2013-04-15

I have SIGNIFICANT investment in Thunderbird and this change will reduce it and reduce my confidence as alumnae.

Name Jesus Romero

Location Monterrey, Mexico

Date 2013-04-15

Comment In Mexico, between 2000 and 2008, Laureate bought three private universities (UVM, UNIDEP and UNITEC) who were ranked significantly below the top universities in Mexico and that target the medium and medium-low social class (considering that tuition of these schools use to be 50% of the tuition from top universities in Mexico). With these three universities, Laureate is today the private school with more students in Mexico and it may have improved the quality of these schools due to the high investment they have done (in Mexico there are tax exceptions for most of the schools) but they still significantly behind the top universities in Mexico. Laureate may not be a bad institution, but when you compare it with Thunderbird it simply does not match (values, market targeted, quality, tuitionyou name it) and definitely the impact of such partnership will be negative for Thunderbird brand and academic reputation.

Jon Herman Fara Ferguson Carvalhinhos Kristine A Swank

Sioux Falls, SD Lisbon, Portugal

2013-04-15 2013-04-15

I am an alum I think association with the Sylvan Learning Center will definitely cheapen the value of the Thunderbird brand, and therefore all of our degrees.

Tucson, AZ

2013-04-15

My undergrad, Dana College, attempted such a partnership w/ a for-profit educational provider, and it so destabilized their mission that they lost accreditation and ended up closing their doors, quickly. The goal of for-profit organizations, as I learned at T-bird, is to make profit, while the goal of T-bird has always been to provide a world-class education. Those 2 goals are rarely compatible. Please suspend this deal and seek alternate financing.

Maryl Widdows

Bellevue, WA

2013-04-15

Thunderbird can do better. Partnering with a substandard education brand like Laureate will be a nail in the coffin. Short term cost savings may be gained, but this will hurt recruiting, rankings, job placement for recent graduates and fundraising. Please find a better solution that preserves the integrity of the Thunderbird brand.

David Heap

New Orleans, LA

2013-04-15

I'd rather the school go out of business than collaborate with Laureate. At least what it means to be a Tbird would endure. This partnership cheapens everyone's degree.

John Leigh Lisa Umar

Lima, Peru Phoenix, AZ

2013-04-15 2013-04-15

Thunderbird is making really bad decisions lately As a current student, I was blindsided by the announcement, and the lack of transparency has been troubling. The fact that students and alumni were not consulted prior to the deal is concerning and not appreciated.

Cristiano Andrade

Natal, Brazil

2013-04-15

I worked as Commercial Director at a university that was acquired by Laureate in Brazil for more than 4 years after the acquisition. The business philosophy and growth of Laureate is 100% based on the significant increase in new enrollments since its marketing strategy aims to fill classrooms without leaving a single empty seat. No problem with that, not for the fact that investments in academic quality are inversely proportional to the growth of the institution, otherwise the bill would not close. The institution has lost a lot of prestige and academic quality by which it was known, and the brand was severely damaged. It is certainly not the future scenario I want to Thunderbird.

Bethel Nathan tod rankin Greg Skutnik Mauricio Carmagnani Kelly Egan

San Diego, CA la verne, CA Seattle, WA So Paulo, Brazil Phoenix, AZ

2013-04-15 2013-04-15 2013-04-15 2013-04-15 2013-04-15

This does not fit the T-Bird that I loved attending and supporting! For profit is not a good future for T-Bird The need to not only maintain but reinstate the reputation of the program. Thunderbird cannot be transformed in a corporation aiming for profitability. Because T-Bird is committing brand suicide.

Name Denny Basham

Location Denver, CO

Date 2013-04-15

Comment I value the Thunderbird values and the Thunderbird mystique and I do not want to see this devalued by a for-profit partnership. Please involve the alumni in this decision rather than leaving this up to a new president who may not be aligned to our core values. I will make a difference to Thunderbird in any way I can just ask.

Carol Kraemer

Orlando, FL

2013-04-16

For profit education is not inline with T-bird mentality and mindset....it goes against all T-bird stands for!

Phil Ouellette

Madison, WI

2013-04-16

I admit to being out of touch on the situation at Thunderbird but completely agree this proposed partnership is at odds with the brand that has been built over many decades. This is a decision that will have a profound impact on both the relevance to future students and our ability to stand out among our peers. I certainly do not understand the severity of the financial pressures the school faces and must ultimately trust in the board. But if there is a chance to choose an alternative course of action, I urge the board to suspend this pursuit until those alternatives can be explored including a challenge to the Alumni Network. If a challenge in this context was made in the past, I must have missed it. Give us all a chance to put up or shut up.

Mark Ye

woodinville, WA

2013-04-16

I'm an alum, I'm a fan of T-bird, and I don't want the brand diluted with a low end for-profit company

Kelly Killian Mark Bradt Devin Wright

ASTORIA, NY Tiburon, CA Salt Lake, UT

2013-04-16 2013-04-16 2013-04-16

Please see my commentary on the NYC Alumni Facebook group. I am a concerned alumni. Thunderbird is a strong enough name to stand on it's own. It's not about the QUANTITY of students, rather the quality. If necessary, reduce the size of the student body and make commensurate reductions in staff and overhead. I am a t-bird for several reasons--a strong curriculum, a diverse, tight and motivated student body, a reputation as THE leader in global business and an incredibly fun yet challenging experience---which is THUNDERBIRD!

zuly cheng James Roos

redondo beach, CA Littleton, CO

2013-04-16 2013-04-16

because i paid a lot of my education and it is a great school Don't cheapen the T-Bird name any further than it's already been lessened by poor leadership. May 1976 Grad

Anne Clement

France

2013-04-16

I totally agree. Who is Laureate ? It's nice to get a financial injection but this would definitely hurt the brand.

Gail Gibford-Capdepon

Hilversum, Netherlands

2013-04-16

We have a tradition of excellence that the t-birds before us created and doing this sells not only our future but the unique past that makes us special as Tbirds.

Craig Crossley Timothy Lamb Neil Mogre

Sarasota, FL Easton, MD India

2013-04-16 2013-04-16 2013-04-16

Cheap brand = no brand The seemingly myopic and capricious search to reinvent my alma mater. I am proud to be from Thunderbird and I dont want to see the Thunderbird brand get diluted!!

Alvaro Oliveira gregory gottheimer George Vance Alexander von Gimbut

So Paulo, Brazil weehawken, NJ Tucson, AZ Stockton, CA

2013-04-16 2013-04-16 2013-04-16 2013-04-16

T-bird long standing tradition poor choice of partner Alumnus Are you kidding? This would be as bright an idea as it was calling us the Garvin School... Shows again how wicked corporate thinking can get!

Dan Bartal

Haifa, Israel, Israel

2013-04-17

Thunderbird is more than just an educational institution. It is a way of life. No other institution could understand this.

Name Marcus Schaefer

Location Winston Salem, NC

Date 2013-04-17

Comment While Laureate may be building some interesting programs overseas working with ordering governments and international finance agencies, the jury is still out on their role & reputation in the U.S.; I hate to see Thunderbird's reputation tied to that brand until the picture is clearer.

Jairaj Mashru

India

2013-04-17

Thunderbird is the most important experience of my life till now and I would like future students to be able to benefit in the same way as I did. I do not believe this new partnership with Laureate Education to be a good thing for past, present and future students of Thunderbird. I am afraid that Laureate Education's brand will significantly dilute Thunderbird's brand which would outweigh any short-term financial benefit resulting from the partnership. Please stop this before any irreparable damage is done.

William Amsden

Japan

2013-04-17

I am deeply disappointed that this is happening, as it will cheapen Thunderbird's brand and will lower the value of the degree that I earned there. Right now I am wishing that I had gotten an MBA from the University of Washington or an MIM from Portland State, two educational institutions that will not 'sell out' as Thunderbird has decided to do. William Amsden

Deva Panambur

Jersey City, NJ

2013-04-17

Dilutes the brand. For profit has a poor reputation. I would have preferred a tie up with a real university

Kevin Hatland Barbara Lanning

Lafayette, CO Orlando, FL

2013-04-17 2013-04-18

I'm concerned that our school's reputation and brand is going to suffer. I feel this partnership is detrimental to the school's reputation as one of the premier global business management graduate schools and will further damage the character and tradition of the school.

Bill Queen

Richmond, VA

2013-04-18

As a proud May 1984 graduate of AGSIM (as it was then called) I strongly urge Thunderbird not to pursue this partnership into for-profit education.

Martyn Lindley David Alfaro

Eugene, OR Zapopan, Mexico

2013-04-18 2013-04-19

We need to protect the Thunderbird brand. Im alumni from Thunderbird MBA with partnership with TEC de Monterrey. But Laureate University will make my MBA feel cheaper and their reputation will be afected.

Ismael Villa

Mexico

2013-04-19

I'm a proud TB. When we started our GMBA program, we were enrolling into both universities (TB & Tec de Monterrey) as TOP universities. Laureate Education, with all due respect, in Mexico is associated with 2nd level education programs such as the UVM (Universidad Valle de Mexico) and it is simply very easy to understand the differences between the educational programs, the values that each institute promotes, and not to mention installations and added value extra-curriuclar activities available for students. I am concern that this partnership will take place, I believe it will downgrade the value of our diploma. Please stop this partnership! Ismael Villa GMBA 2012

Name Ismael Villa

Location Mexico

Date 2013-04-19

Comment I'm a proud TB. When we started our GMBA program, we were enrolling into both universities (TB & Tec de Monterrey) as TOP universities. Laureate Education, with all due respect, in Mexico is associated with 2nd level education programs such as the UVM (Universidad Valle de Mexico) and it is simply very easy to understand the differences between the educational programs, the values that each institute promotes, and not to mention installations and added value extra-curriuclar activities available for students. I am concern that this partnership will take place, I believe it will downgrade the value of our diploma. Please stop this partnership! Ismael Villa GMBA 2012

Ricardo Lazo de la Vega

Mexico

2013-04-21

Laurate Education is net well recognize for its standards in education adn in Mexico is associated with another University which has not as good reputation as the ITESM. Does this means that Thinderbird will become a mediocre Education Institution? I hope not otherwise for sure I will ask for my refund and will change to another ITESM program. Thanks

Maria Sol Delgado

Lima, Peru

2013-04-21

It is scary. This is not what I signed up for when I was recruited. I feel like dropping the GMBA program. Dr. Toro's (TEC) speech was not convincing at all and I believe we do deserve a better explanation for this unexplainable nonsense decision

Juan Venegas

Lima, Peru

2013-04-21

I am currently on the Global MBA for Latin American Managers; and this would the the last class of the program since they stopped recruiting people for next year.

Christine Wilfer

Appleton, WI

2013-04-22

The partnership with Laureate does nothing to improve the quality of education at Thunderbird, weakens the brand, and severely undermines the credibility of all current degree holders.

James Bruton

Washington, DC

2013-04-22

I agree with aforestated comments that T-Bird must not delute its quality or reputation.

Fred Hadlow Michael Eckhardt

Westmoreland, NH Vancouver, WA

2013-04-23 2013-04-23

I believe there are better partnerships that Thunderbird could pursue. This "partnership" is ill-conceived and seriously dampens Thunderbird's brand. I didn't pay $100,000 for a third rate off the shelf diploma.

Robert Dungan

Asheville, NC

2013-04-23

I am a 1972 graduate of Thunderbird. There is a proud, global network of alumni. I believe that this "merger" based on what I have seen will devalue and ultimately destroy a fine institute. I thought laureate had to do with hair when I first saw this. Thanks to the petitioners and may more join.

Janie Naber

Tempe, AZ

2013-04-25

Thunderbird has always had a high recognition for its graduates. I feel by partnering with Laureate Ed., Inc, you will be watering down the validity of the degree.

Ricardo Parada

Mexico

2013-04-25

The Thunderbird Brand is at stake because of this partnership and we should raise our voice against it. I didnt invest my money in getting and MBA from any school related with Laureate. I chose Thunderbird because of its ranking and because of its values. As alumni we should defend or alma matter, because at the end we are the most affected.

Jennifer Hering Butler

Newton, MA

2013-04-25

To not dilute the Thunderbird brand by allying with an organization of little or no recognition or educational status.

Name augusto arce Joseph Vias

Location San Jose, Costa Rica Greenfield, MA

Date 2013-04-25 2013-04-26

Comment Laureate in my country is seen as a merely commercial educational company At my first interview after graduation I was denied a position because the HR person thought Thunderbird was an online MBA school like University of Phoenix. Don't let this become a reality.

Travis Soto Erich Flynn

Draper, UT Sandy, UT

2013-04-26 2013-04-26

I don't think this change is good for the Thunderbird brand. I am concerned that the association with Laureate will tarnish the Thunderbird brand. It will also devalue the education received by thousands of alumni to date.

John Osmun takeo ishii

Cedar Hills, UT miami, FL

2013-04-26 2013-04-26

The degree I earned needs to maintain it's credibility in the business world. I chose and paid Thunderbird for many reasons, and certainly a partnership (brand dilution and credibility of my MBA degree) with Laureate Education was not one of them.

Steven Elliff James Sinor

Park City, UT Los Angeles, CA

2013-04-26 2013-04-26

Utter stupidity. Who in the hell thought this up? I didn't pay $80k to attend the Sylvan Learning Center School of Business. Do not degrade my degree! It is a terrible disservice to alumni. We can't disassociate ourselves from Thunderbird now and go elsewhere to get our degrees. We have them! This is the wrong path. Please kill the deal. NOW!

Vishal Jadhav

India

2013-04-27

This proposed partnership is a frightening prospect for all stakeholders of Thunderbird - alumni, students and employers, of the future of this school and the quality of its education. I am pained to observe the direction that this business school has been taking over the past decade and question the motivation and desire of management to establish the Thunderbird brand as a premier business management school.

Alexander Hume

Alpine, UT

2013-04-28

Partnership with a low quality for-profit educational entity will not address Thunderbird's financial issues. The partnership will reduce the value of the school to future students and drive away the high quality students.

Kymberly Eide

Minneapolis, MN

2013-04-29

I am very disappointed that Thunderbird would choose to partner with Laureate Education. This alignment will drive substantial erosion of the brand and prestige associated with a Thunderbird degree. We, as alumni, will suffer the impact of this erosion - as will future graduates. I ask that you reconsider this partnership.

Lucienne Mayberry

Vienna, VA

2013-04-29

The quoted phrase : "This will cause permanent and irreparable harm to the Thunderbird brand, ranking, and academic reputation" reflects exactly what I think about this partnership.

Jose Aun Ariel Santamaria

Culiacn, Mexico Mxico, Mexico

2013-04-30 2013-04-30

I care about THUNDERBIRDS future. Laureate doesn' t have an excellent reputation in Latin America, in Mexico, their must important university is Universidad del Valle de Mxico that is a mid Ranked School.

Dilip Sarangan

Plano, TX

2013-04-30

The brand of Thunderbird has remained strong for over 65 years due to its exclusivity and strength of its student body and level of education. Affiliation with a third-party institution will dilute that exclusivity and cheapen the brand. I love Thunderbird and my brand will forever be associated with it. Such a move is likely to dilute the education of over 35,000 alumni globally and the school must take steps to remain autonomous.

Michael Johnston JUAN MANUEL DE CARDENAS

Palm Desert, CA Lima, Peru

2013-04-30 2013-04-30

Need to stop the current decision Thunderbird seems to be desperate to change its name every couple of years. Either because of a multimillion donation or whetever reason, there seems to be no interest in tradition. Keep your eyes on the ball is my message: quality versus quantity both in faculty and job opportunities.

Name Fernando Gonzalez

Location Mexico

Date 2013-05-01

Comment As a GMBA graduated, I am very concerrned of the results this partnership will bring to the quality of education from Thunderbird.

Steve Nilsen Talia Castellanos

St Petersburg, FL Dallas, TX

2013-05-01 2013-05-01

I hold a Thunderbird degree ('89) Because I'm a T-bird graduate and I wouldn't like to see the t-bird name associate with this type of institution

Ajay Gundecha

Singapore, United Kingdom

2013-05-02

I think this deal weakens our brand. I fully understand we are in a weak financial position, but believe we should merge with a high-quality institution for survival not go bargain-bucket shopping at Laureate. I agree with James Fink that we should follow the Monterey Institute of International Studies example, or the more recent announcement of Reims and Rouen. I am sure there are many schools who would be interested in Thunderbird and its brand.

Philippe DEYMES

France

2013-05-02

The Thunderbird brand is an asset that belongs to all our community, alumni included, and not just a few short-sighted managers. The lack of transparency of this proposed transaction and the poor choice of partners are obvious.Philippe J.E Deymes MIM , Class of DEC 71

MAGDA SOLIS

Tegucigalpa, Honduras

2013-05-02

I want the school to continue to be an academical institution not a profit oriented one.

Charles Nunu

Houston, TX

2013-05-03

Thunderbird is lost and the Board and leadership have lost the vision of what made us Unique.

Stephen Rutherford

Long Beach, CA

2013-05-03

Class of !984. Did not sign up for a mail order degree. To associate the school with a degree mill. If I wanted to be a barber or a chef I would have sign up with Laureate. Keep the mystique. I have numerous storie and examples how the uniqueness of Thunderbird has opened doors to boardroom.

Barbara Zucker

Cary, NC

2013-05-06

My degree and Thunderbird's brand is being undermined. Please stop this Partnership fro going forward.

vic fontaine

boca raton, FL

2013-05-07

T-Bird has always been an environment where uniqueness of focus and previously demonstrated interest in international studies has been at the forefront. Many of the alumni I know have had as a result unique global impact. The school 's products very frequently have become " A Peacock in the Land of Penguins" a book which I consider mandatory reading for the life and career changer folks I mentor and coach. As a resume and presentation must stand out above the crowd in today's world if one expects to succeed, I concur with the concerns and sentiments express by others signing this petition. -Vic Fontaine <a href="http://www.aspirationaldirections.com" rel="nofollow">www.aspirationaldirections.com</a> <a href="http://www.lifeandcareerchangers.com" rel="nofollow">www.lifeandcareerchangers.com</a> <a href="mailto:vcfontaine@gmail.com" rel="nofollow">vcfontaine@gmail.com</a> Cell: 561-350-4514 Home Office 561 241-7242

Name Patrick Buckley

Location Austin, TX

Date 2013-05-08

Comment It was not until recently I heard about a potential merger between Thunderbird and Laureate. Not once, have I have been contacted, notified, updated on this merger. I am deeply I am deeply concerned about the future value of the Thunderbird brand and degree. I understand that the primary reason for Thunderbird seeking a third party with whom to partner is financial. Why, then, have I NEVER been contacted by mail, phone or email by anyone at Thunderbird asking for a donation? I would have gladly done so. Alumni need to unite to understand more about this potential merger and its potential benefits and negatives.

Lakshmi Deepthi Seethalam

India

2013-05-08

Partnering with an unworthy party for financial reasons will not bode will for Thunderbird. It will further degrade the brand and the school's relationship with its alumni network. Please do not let our brand get diluted thus. Either decide on a better represented partner or try solving the financial crisis in some other way. Include all stakeholders in the decision.

Robert Hans Jose Ignacio Ruelas Rodriguez Victor Sanchez

Coral Gables, FL La Jolla, CA

2013-05-09 2013-05-09

I echo the views herein. Because I am a T-Bird

Vaughan, Canada

2013-05-09

Is important to mantain the reputation level of the school, I have seen this type of agreements with other institutions and the only benefited is the most lower ranked school, I think we should mantain our reputation by keeping quality standards

Sebastien Le Calvez Shannon Dinwoodie

Toronto, Canada Oklahoma City, OK

2013-05-09 2013-05-10

Because I'm an ex-alumni <a href="mailto:shannon_dinwoodie@yahoo.com" rel="nofollow">shannon_dinwoodie@yahoo.com</a>

Scott Avirett Coleen Curry Ronald Mark Logan

Hong Kong, Hong Kong Muir Beach, CA Phoenix, AZ

2013-05-10 2013-05-10 2013-05-10

it's a bad partnership Damage to Thunderbird Brand Because I'm a proud T-Bird! Someone who sought the MIM out for it's unquiness and international expertise. The administration, BoT, career center, Pres., among other have failed to live up to the standards of the vast majority of alum. As a result, they've decided to sell the Mystique, reputation, vested value in alum, and brand...to a low quality, mass produced, education retailer. If this deal goes through......it'll be a shame.

Jeffrey Markley Dieter Bruns Peter Deneen Dirk Russell

Hong Kong, Hong Kong Macau, Macao Hong Kong, Hong Kong Japan

2013-05-10 2013-05-11 2013-05-11 2013-05-12

The Laureate Partnership is Wrong Dilutes tbird brand and its future Alumnus Class of May 1984 There has been no word from the School's management. What is really going on?

Avinder Singh Bindra

India

2013-05-12

I think this partnership dilutes the academic value of the Thunderbird brand value.

Mireille Quintin Nevin Hill

Mexico CAYCE, SC

2013-05-12 2013-05-12

No partnership with Laureate Education. I regect it I, in no way shape or form, want my education compared to anything that Shaquille O'Neal has achieved academically...

Hanson Wong

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

2013-05-13

The Thunderbird Laureate Partnership will permanently damage Thunderbird brand name and reputation. I as a T-bird care so much about Thunderbird.

Douglas Morin

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

2013-05-13

I don't see the synergy with hospitality and culinary arts. Not interested in having an MBA from an on-line university!

Peter HOng Huynh

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

2013-05-13

Simple, T-bird brand is too strong for this partnership;our interest is different

Name Erik Saether

Location Trondheim, Norway

Date 2013-05-14

Comment As a Tbird alum, I am worried about a for-profit education provider damaging the mission and brand of Tbird and would like to understand the alternatives.

Lorena Garcia Antoine Eloi

Scottsdale, AZ Philadelphia, PA

2013-05-14 2013-05-15

I'm an alumni and care about the school This partnership will effectively destroy the Thunderbird brand and would render our diplomas useless. Why more efforts are not being invested into making T-birds more employable/marketable is beyond me.

kimberley kalesnik Christopher Carroll

macau, Macao Phoenix, AZ

2013-05-15 2013-05-16

want more details of this prposal. does not sound like a good fit for tbird I have no desire to see Thunderbird's already fragile brand be further damaged by affiliation with for-profit education, specifically Laureate. If the school has problems that need resolving, it need look no further than to its 40,000+ alumni for solutions that place the value and well-being of Thunderbird first.

Irvin Varkonyi Michelle To

Fairfax, VA Hong Kong, Hong Kong

2013-05-16 2013-05-18

I am a Tbird and greatly value the brand Tbird for my professional career. We defend the brand of Thunderbird against the proposed partnership with Laureate Education, Inc.

Joseph Urso Todd Judy John Xue Alessandro Perri

Seoul, Korea, Republic of Singapore, Singapore , China Columbia, SC

2013-05-19 2013-05-19 2013-05-20 2013-05-21

I am a T-Bird Alum Save the Thunderbird brand No. 1 vs one of 1,000 Profile and calibre of partner institutions is inferior - will diminish prestige of the Thunderbird brand and weaken its commitment to excellence- the school needs creative partnerships with top ranking institutions corporations and international organizations, more high level graduate and possibly doctoral program - not a slide down the university of Phoenix lane...

Richard Strayer

tucson, AZ

2013-05-23

The "Financial Motive" and alternatives need to be shared with the Alumni. We are 40,000 strong and have a vested interest in the value of our degrees and the future value as we go forward. Please reconsider our input prior to a decision, which currently on the surface, will negatively affect our relationship and unique place within Global Management.

Jagriti Chadha

New York, NY

2013-05-26

Marketing 101 - lets look at brand fit. Is this the quality of our thinking now at Thunderbird?

ERIN GOLDEN

PROVINCETOWN, MA

2013-05-26

To repeat the obvious - Thunderbird will be damaged by any relationship with these for-profit "higher education wannabes" who overcharge students and underperform against their promises to students. Stop this insanity now! Focus on building a better brand for Thunderbird. There is a new generation of "millenials" who are more international in their thinking than ever before including my son, a sophomore studying International Relations at Tufts University in Boston. He was originally considering Thunderbird for his graduate work - but, if the deal with Laureate goes through - I will make sure that he does not even apply to my Alma Mater, Thunderbird. This makes me very frustrated and sad. What a pathetic ending this will be for what was once a school to be proud of. Erin Golden

Kimberly Rifflard

Trumbull, CT

2013-05-26

I think partnering with a school of their type is a big mistake. I value the reputation of the school from which I obtained my degree.

Vicki Harder Tucker White Paul Hamlin

Salt Lake City, UT Reno, NV Sturgeon Bay, WI

2013-05-29 2013-05-30 2013-05-30

The reputation of the school is at stake here! Dilution of Degree Value The agreement was not made public, it is unclear what Sylvan gets and what Thunderbird gets and in my view this will tremendously harm the school.

Name Rob Fox

Location Chicago, IL

Date 2013-05-30

Comment - Over the last few months, I have met up with numerous Thunderbirds from a variety of classes. Inevitably the potential partnership with Laureate comes up and makes Thunderbird look like a joke. These alum are not you average never involved kind, these are people were/are the face of the institution Presidents of TSG, leaders of the Tower Project, Campus Ambassadors, Foundations Leaders, Club Leaders, ... you name it. - While there have been communications to try to add further detail the partnership. They are continually vague and don't answer questions in any additional detail.

Francois de Vincens de Causans Antony Sakellaropoulos Ralph B. McIntyre

Los Altos, CA

2013-05-30

Avoid brand dilution - do not feel this is really needed.

, Greece Oakmont, PA

2013-05-31 2013-06-02

Thunderbird has a unique brand, let's not dillute it for any reason! Dilutes the academic integrity of Thunderbird's International MBA. Better to reinstate language training & facility as part of core curriculum.