University of Illinois takes away free meals for student workers

CHAMPAIGN, Ill.—Beginning Aug. 16, University Housing student dining service workers will no longer be offered a free meal during their shift.

Student workers were informed through an email sent out by Dawn Aubrey, associate director of University Housing Dining Services, last Wednesday.

According to the email, the free employee benefit meal is considered taxable income by the Internal Revenue System, IRS. Kirsten Ruby, associate director of housing for communications and marketing, said the change in meal policy follows a University audit.