OK, this just in from Tbird (Penley)(see below), which/who talks of One Thunderbird, and yet not a peep about reaching out to TIAA. Am I missing something? March 20, 2014 Dear Thunderbird Alumni, You are all aware of the fundamental changes taking place in higher education globally. Adapting to change is an important part of the Thunderbird DNA since its origins under General Yount. One important reason we have endured as a leader and our students have succeeded globally has been our ability to adapt to the global business landscape and its many employers within the context of our mission and brand. All of the important changes implemented in recent years were designed for that purpose. I believe we must continue this pursuit and constantly challenge the status quo as a requirement for continued vitality. What Were Doing Right Now Last weeks news regarding HLCs decision not to approve the Laureate alliance as proposed was not expected, and many of you were disappointed. While we were surprised by the HLC decision, we did not let that impact our efforts to react quickly. The Board of Trustees immediately commenced a thorough analysis of the HLC decision for solutions to the specific HLC issues and engaged in further dialogue with HLC representatives. At the same time, the Board also began actively pursuing various strategic alternatives, including a modified collaborative relationship with Laureate and communications with other potential strategic partners. Although opinions on the Laureate alliance have been mixed, the need for a partnership remains. In October 2012, the Board of Trustees focused its attention on assuring Thunderbirds competitive position in the long-run. Recognizing its historic position as the original school of international business and the Schools continued metamorphosis over multiple decades, the Board outlined three criteria for any potential alliance; those criteria have not changed. The partnership must: Support Thunderbirds global mission; Preserve the Thunderbird brand; and Provide for the Schools long-term sustainability. Moving Forward Together I recognize that the Thunderbird community has endured more than a year of uncertainty, and the process has taken its toll. The most important thing for all of us -- faculty, staff, students, alumni, employers and other stakeholders -- is to move the institution forward and to lay the groundwork for competitive growth. Thunderbird is an excellent academic institution, and all of us care deeply for Thunderbird. As Thunderbird moves forward I make three pledges to guide the process: First, the administration and Board are committed to Thunderbird going forward as a formidable competitor. Second, we will work quickly to secure a suitable partner that provides for the Schools competitive position, consistent with the Boards October 2012 charge for the process. Third, we will engage Thunderbird stakeholders and provide regular communication within the constraints of protecting Thunderbird and potential partners during the ensuing negotiations. In the last three days, we have already reached out to • Leaders of the Thunderbird Student Government (TSG), • Faculty and Staff, • The Alumni Council of Thunderbird (ACT). Working through these groups and the Thunderbird Global Council, we will listen to your suggestions and keep you informed. We will also act quickly – before the end of this academic year – for the sake of the Thunderbird community. The ACT motto, One Thunderbird, will be our rallying cry as we work together to educate global leaders who create sustainable prosperity worldwide. Thank you again for your continued interest, passion and support. Regards,
Posted on: Thu, 20 Mar 2014 17:43:54 +0000
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