This letter is concerning the opinion article written by Mr. William Hamilton and published in the Tuesday May 29, 2012, edition of The State Press. In the opinion story, Mr. Hamilton expressed his beliefs about the exclusive banking partnership between ASU and MidFirst Bank. Unfortunately, he mischaracterized the agreement.
First, it is important to understand that ASU does not sell students’ personal information and no private information is provided to any company without a students’ consent.
Secondly, this agreement provides benefits to students who choose a MidFirst Bank Pitchfork Card. The all-in-one product combines access to the university with the convenience of a banking card.
Students are informed of the MidFirst Bank options and the benefits, such as free nationwide ATMs, a no-fee checking account and no minimum balances; but are never pressured into a decision.
Students are free to choose whatever they think best meets their banking needs. Many universities have entered into similar banking relationships, including the University of Minnesota, Sam Houston State University and Ohio State University, just to name a few.
Finally, like all sponsorships, the MidFirst Bank agreement was created with students’ best interests in mind. This contract does generate revenue for ASU, but at no additional cost to students. ASU is a not-for-profit institution.
Revenues from sources like the MidFirst bank agreement are used to fund university operations. The agreement provides an easy package that starts and ends with students in mind and funds a variety of activities that benefit them.
We are confident that students will see the value that this partnership brings to ASU.
Sam Wheeler Executive Director Auxiliary Business Services Arizona State University
