The University of Michigan-Flint has begun transitioning from swipe-card access to proximity-based MCards as part of a campus-wide, long-term safety initiative.
The project is the result of a collaboration among the Department of Public Safety, Information Technology Services, and Facilities & Operations, with oversight from the University’s Electronic Security Committee. The transition was designed to provide more efficient access to buildings, reduce MCard wear and tear and enhance security.
The William S. White Building completed its transition to contactless card access in June. The University Center and the French Hall have finished upgrades as of July 2, with the remainder of the campus set to fully transition by August. Updates will continue to be shared by email from the director of the DPS, Ray Hall.
Each card contains a unique encrypted identifier and will be managed by DPS, enabling quick deactivation of lost or stolen cards.
Updated MCards must contain a key symbol on the right-hand side of the photo to be compatible with the new system.
Students, faculty and staff can update their MCards at the MCard office in the Saginaw Room located at the University Pavilion, which is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Rylie Yeiter is a writer for the Michigan Times and can be reached at jasobii@umich.edu.
