In yet another case of College changing its mind a few years after making a decision, the Tanaka Business School is to become the 'Imperial College Business School'. In the early part of the decade the Management School was renamed, following Dr Gary Tanaka's £27m donation for the creation of a new building for the school, incorporating the new college main entrance.
A College press release announcing the change states that "research suggested that its previous name, Tanaka Business School, was not strongly associated with Imperial College, and that many respondents were unaware that the School was a part of Imperial." It is hoped the switch to "Imperial College Business School" will aid recruitment of both academic staff and students, by capitalising on Imperial's international reputation. The lack of association with the College also showed internally, with the School often becoming a law unto itself.
The press release also seeks to re-assure Dr Tanaka that his name is not being completely removed, confirming that the building he pledged to pay for will continue to be 'The Tanaka Building'. Shortly after the building was completed Dr Tanaka was arrested, after being accused of misappropriating funds. He was later placed under house arrest with his assets frozen, with rumours suggesting that the College had not received full payment for the 'Tanaka' building, fueling speculation that the school may be renamed. A College spokesperson was unable to comment on the financial arrangement between College and Dr Tanaka, due to its confidential nature.
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