Mr. Dooley,
I believe that you are correct, the GWU brand had a lot to do with the acceptability of my online degree. I believe, also, that it also points up the fact that it is extremely important that you DO select a rigorous, hightly respected program that is closely aligned with your goals if you want it to be an advantage in the workplace.
If, however, you choose a program that is “easy” and doesn’t require a great deal from you in terms of effort, time, or money, well, you get out what you put in.