Dear Loyola Students:

In light of last week’s announcement regarding a Wolf Buck plan participation requirement for commuter students beginning Fall 2016, we wanted to take a moment to clarify the program and our goals regarding dining enhance projects on campus. We have had the opportunity to meet with many students over the last two weeks and want to ensure a full explanation of who, why, how and when.

Who? The Wolf Buck commuter plan will begin in Fall 2016 and include a requirement to carry a minimum number of Wolf Bucks each semester through graduation, however all current students will be grandfathered in without a change to current requirements. All residential students will continue to carry meal plans relative to their class year congruent with current university policy.

Why? In order to continue expansion of our dining program, Sodexo and Loyola renegotiated our contract to include a phased in approach to dining enhancement, which included a Wolf Buck participation plan for all commuter students. In 2013, when the contract was adjusted, we consulted with SGA financial aid, and the Loyola University Dining Advisory Board (LUDAB) for support and input. Student feedback shared in focus groups and surveys determined the need for more national and local brand recognition on campus and diverse community space for studying and gathering. This feedback influenced the addition of concepts like Starbucks, Subway, Blue Dot and Slice Pizzeria. We also renovated the Danna Center food court and what is now the Starbucks lounge to meet commuter student needs with more seating and charging stations. To continue to accomplish this aggressive and robust goal, a program was developed including a shared investment plan for commuters and residential students. Rather than implement a student dining fee, each student would be given Wolf Bucks allowing them to dine on campus and receive a dollar for dollar value.

How? The original program explained to students in early March, included $500 per semester Wolf Buck plan requirement for all commuter students beginning Fall 2015. Immediately following the initial announcement to students and parents, our offices received feedback through SGA, the Commuter Student Association and individual meetings with students. We quickly realized this was a case where our intent and behavior did not match. We missed the mark and inadequately explained our goals, all while surprising the students we serve. Our teams quickly pulled together to amend our plan to be better suited for our student population. Last Friday, we announced the new program, which will begin in Fall 2016 affecting all new, incoming commuter students.

When? This spring, Residential Life and Sodexo will conduct benchmarking studies to determine an equitable price point for the new commuter Wolf Buck plan. This study will include student input and comparison with similar sized institutions and with comparable student demographic. This summer you will continue to see improvements to the dining facilities including expanded seating in the St. Charles Room and on the adjacent outdoor patio. Next year, we will begin renovations on the Orleans Room and are looking at new concepts for the Broadway campus!

We feel fortunate to be a part of a campus that is committed to growth and change. As we further develop our plan and grow our dining program, we welcome your input and new ideas!

Amy Boyle                                                                                                     Phoebe Cook

Director of Residential Life                                                    General Manager, Sodexo