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Join the Thunderbird Flight Society and see where it can take you.


Thunderbird Flight Society

You are cordially invited to declare yourself a global citizen! In today's shifting economic landscape, the world needs T-birds more than ever. You can make that a reality by supporting Thunderbird's key initiatives. The strength of Thunderbird's community and the extent of our global reach are determined by the support of alumni and friends who are as committed as we are to making the world a better place. Donate today and become an esteemed member of Thunderbird's Flight Society.

Membership into the Flight Society is annual and available to all alumni and friends of Thunderbird who make a gift of $100 or greater. The Society offers varying membership levels (see below) and ways to join or renew.

Flight Society membership is not only tax-deductible, but also provides a plethora of rewards* that allow you to stay connected with Thunderbird. From receiving regular communications, member discounts and access to global thought leaders, to participating in global events, you decide what you want to get out of your membership.

Join now by making your donation and get ready to take flight!

*For alumni donors, the society rewards are in addition to your existing alumni benefits. A comprehensive list of these benefits is available on the Alumni page.


The Backpacker ($100 - $249)

  • 10% discount on Global Reunion registration
  • 25% off one item at the ThunderShop per year

The Globetrekker ($250 - $499)

  • 10% discount on Thunderbird Private Equity Conference
  • 15% discount on Global Reunion registration
  • 25% off one item at the ThunderShop per year

The Jetsetter ($500 - $999)

  • Access to Premier Webcasts
  • 10% discount on Thunderbird Private Equity Conference
  • 20% discount on Global Family Business Conference
  • 25% discount on Global Reunion registration
  • 25% off one item at the ThunderShop per year
  • A chance to win free roundtrip airfare to a Global Reunion
  • Privileged access to exclusive Thunderbird events, including private events with world-renowned visitors, speakers and friends of the school. Jetsetters will also gain invitations to special Presidential briefings at alumni reunions and other Thunderbird events.

Flight Society Q&A

  1. When does my membership start?
    Benefits begin on the date of your gift. If you make your gifts in installments, membership would begin once we receive $100 in one fiscal year.

  2. When will I be notified of my membership?
    Memberships are updated monthly. We will send you a welcome letter the first week of the month following your gift.

  3. How long will I be a member?
    Membership is valid for one calendar year from the date of your gift.

  4. What is the difference between fiscal year and calendar year?
    At Thunderbird, the fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. The Annual Report on Giving reflects cash gifts received in a fiscal year. Calendar year refers to the 365 days starting with the date of your gift.

  5. Will I be listed as a consecutive donor in the annual report?
    If you want to ensure your name is listed in each year's annual report, be sure to send in one gift per fiscal year. In other words, by making an annual cash gift every fiscal year, your membership will continue and your gift will be reflected in the annual report.

  6. What happens if I increase my giving after I become a member?
    If your subsequent gift(s) are received prior to the end date of your membership, they will count towards the next level of membership and your membership will be extended, expiring one year from the date of your new gift.

  7. Do pledges count?
    While pledges are encouraged, membership is based on cash gifts received and begins when your cash gift(s) received in each fiscal year reach $100. Your payments on a previous pledge do count towards membership.
     
  8. What benefits will I receive?
    Each level of membership has an increasingly greater number of benefits as described above.  

  9. What if I don’t use my discount for the ThunderShop, Reunions, etc?
    All discounts not utilized within the year of membership cannot be applied in a different year when membership has lapsed/expired. Benefits renew when your membership renews.