This letter is in response to the letter to the editor “Lackmann Foods Scandal” published in the Oct. 28edition of The Chronicle signed by Linda, Tammy, Amber, Timothy and William alleging that Lackmann Dining Services and HofstraCard Services are involved in “embezzling” funds. This allegation is unsubstantiated. Moreover, safeguards and procedures are in place to insure such improprieties cannot occur. For example:

Meal plan balances are displayed on the patron display screen at the time of purchase, allowing the cardholder to see their current balance.

Receipts are available upon request at the time of purchase at any dining location register. Receipts are not automatically generated in an effort to conserve paper and reduce waste. No patron should ever be refused a receipt; if such a situation should occur a manager should be contacted immediately.

You can log into the Hofstra Portal at any time to view your meal plan daily activity by date, time and location. If you wish, you may request a printed activity sheet of your account at the HofstraCard Services Office located in the Student Center.

There are times when charges to an account are posted at a later date. For example, when a student loses or misplaces his or her card and a meal pass is issued or in the event of a system failure requiring charges to be uploaded and/or entered manually.

Any student who believes an invalid charge has been posted to their account has the responsibility to report this concern and may do so to HofstraCard Services. Furthermore, if you believe your card has been lost you may deactivate the card at anytime on the Hofstra Portal or by visiting HofstraCard Services.

It is a core value of the mission for both Lackmann Dining Services and HofstraCard Services to serve the Hofstra community with integrity and professionalism. If any member of the community has a concern about Dining Services, they are encouraged to contact the Hofstra University Director of Campus Dining Matthew Quinn at 463-7050. All concerns regarding HofstraCard Services should be directed to Muhammed Nazli at 463-6942.

Thank you for bringing attention to this matter.

Joseph M. Barkwill is the Vice President for Facilities and Operations and Sandra S. Johnson is the Vice President for Student Affairs.