Online degree programs are growing in number. But, are they growing in respect?

Although an increasing number of employers will gladly hire applicants with online degrees, there still seems to be a bit of a stigma attached to virtual learning. Consider this blurb from a recent article in the St. Petersburg Times:

"Distance learning has never quite shook off a declasse stink. Elite schools imparted some luster into online education, but there's still a sense that a degree from Harvard Extension is like a faux-designer handbag. It looks the same, but isn't.

The education of Hilary Duff is a case in point. The actor and singer earned a stinging rebuke two years ago from Harvard's student newspaper, which chastised her for failing to make it clear that she was enrolled at Harvard Extension, not Harvard proper. The writers called her a "chicken and a loser" and said she wasn't living 'la vida Harvard.'"

What do you think - do online degrees from respectable schools get respectable reactions? Share your opinion in the comments section.