Column disingenuous

There are a few items that I must point out in response to Elliott Wolf's disingenuous column “Too little, too late.” Firstly, Duke Dining is the pioneer in “competition” in the college food service market. Elliott would be hard pressed to find another school that offers students the flexibility of over 20 privatized campus operations, in addition to traditional cafeteria-style dining. Duke is known throughout the higher education community as an innovator in dining, and other schools look to us as a model for their programs. In an effort to eliminate missed meals, Duke has taken the lead in offering an equivalency program (which has been hugely popular). Duke’s required board plan is among the least restrictive for first-year students (most schools require a 21- meal plan; Duke only requires 12). In terms of protecting jobs, Mr. Wulforst is referring to the numerous employees who have worked for Duke Dining for decades and were guaranteed a superior working experience under ARAMARK. They have invested valuable time at Duke. As for the call for DUSDAC to wake up, I would like to remind you of all of the accomplishments thus far this year—a late-night option on East, the return of Kosher Dining, five new Merchants-on-Points (MOP), the Meal Equivalency Program, menu revisions at Rick's Diner, The Loop and Armadillo Grill and the expansion of the ’Dillo Bar drink menu. Campus dining isn’t perfect, but Duke Dining Services is one of the most student-friendly and responsive administrative bodies on campus and DUSDAC and DSG are working hard for students at our weekly meetings. Thanks for your gratitude.

David Gastwirth

Co-Chair

Duke University Student Dining Advisory Committee