Telecommunications provides all on-campus phone related services for both Student and Administrative customers. We offer assistance with on-campus phone services. From long distance to phone line features like Caller ID, the Telecom office provides many of the same services that you are accustomed to using with your own local telephone provider.
The Telecom office also supports the Panther Card ID. The Panther Card is a ONE Card concept which provides the combined functionality of identification, purchasing, checking/ATM, and a meal plan all in ONE Card. No need to carry several cards!
Your Panther Card is a "smart" card, which has an actual computer chip on the front surface of the card and a magnetic stripe on the back. This combination allows for multiple functions with just ONE card.
Card Uses
Identification: The Official University Identification card, which is required for all students, staff, and faculty.
Panther Cash: Smart Chip technology brings the convenience of electronic cash for on-campus purchases.
Panther Checking: A Unique partnership with First Mid Illinois Bank, designed to bring the best possible financial services to our students and staff.
Panther Dining: Your Panther Card provides access to the University meal plan options - Meal swipes and Dining Dollars.
Your Panther Card is a valuable asset to you. To avoid replacement fees and the inconvenience of a damaged card, it is important to take appropriate care of your card. The following card care tips will help keep your card in working order:
Do . . . Protect your card in a wallet, but do not place it directly against the plastic viewing window.
Don't . . . Carry your card "naked", especially in your back pocket. This is the number one ID killer on college campuses across the USA.
Do . . . Avoid getting your card wet. It doesn't do well in the washing machine.
Do . . . Avoid bending your card or sitting on it.
Don't . . . Punch holes in your card.
Don't . . . Place your card near anything that may erase the magnetic stripe (stereo speakers, television, magnet, etc.).
Don't . . . Use your card as an ice scraper
Don't . . . Hold your ID in your mouth at anytime. Teeth marks and saliva will damage the card's magnetic stripe and smart chip.
Don't . . . Loan your Panther Card to anyone at anytime! Keep it in a safe place at all times just as you would MasterCard or Visa credit cards.
Do . . . Replace your damaged card and never use a damaged card in either the Dining Service or Panther Card equipment.
