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An Estimate of Professor Tenet
Washington, D.C. May 7, 2007
An Estimate of Professor Tenet
In light of the reaction sparked by the recently released “At the Center of the Storm,” we would like to offer our view as students of Professor George Tenet.
A group of Masters’ Candidates representing a diverse mixture of views and nationalities had the pleasure of taking Professor Tenet’s graduate seminar “Intelligence in Practice” this spring. Professor Tenet’s character made a deep impression on our class.
He stuck with the issues, welcoming both debate and criticism, rather than shifting blame or unfairly impugning the character of former colleagues.
His willingness to honestly reflect on the successes and failures during his tenure as DCI made every class a gripping experience. In our judgment, Professor Tenet presented a balanced and fair account of the issues and events discussed.
George Tenet conveyed all of the values and attributes of a good leader: personal integrity, accountability for his mistakes, a fierce commitment to his agency and people, and the strong belief that he served his country to the best of his ability during an intense period of this nation’s history.
He was a constant inspiration to us due to his passion, his candor, and his integrity. We believe this is the best legacy that a teacher can leave behind to his students. For that, we remain deeply grateful.
Chris Wilson
Valeria Di Fiori
Full Disclosure: Cox reporter Tara Copp was a student in Tenet’s Georgetown class this spring. Because of the neutrality the press must maintain, she did not initiate the letter and did not sign it. The letter was initially submitted to The Washington Post for publication, but was declined.
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