While I will make no judgement about the necessity or justification of higher food prices on campus, I have noticed that prices are often lower off-campus. Mr. Haden's proposal is one way to reduce food spending and will also increase competition for ARAMARK.
I have another suggestion: keep (part or all of) the cash in your bank account instead of depositing it into a Deacon Dining account. It will be as safe at Wachovia as it is at ARAMARK. Surely college students do not need a benevolent overseer (i.e. ARAMARK's dining plan) to make sure we do not spend our food money on other things. And I believe college students can save money by buying, at least sometimes, off-campus. Also, cash is a better competitive equalizer: all establishments accept it, not just ARAMARK, and not just the selected eateries that (if Haden's proposal is implemented) will agree to accept meal cards. Since a meal plan is required for freshmen, Mr. Haden's proposal is more practical for them. But keep in mind that even if his proposal is not approved, we have another option.
Chiree Spencer