Georgia Southern University expands use of iris biometrics ID system

Georgia Southern University has expanded its use of its iris recognition identification system to the campus recreational center, following the implementation of the technology last year at campus dining halls as part of an opt-in program, according to a report by CR80 News.

The adoption rate for the iris recognition system at campus dining halls has rapidly increased since it was first introduced in August 2013, according to Richard Wynn, director of the Eagle Card Office at Georgia Southern University.

Currently, 15,000 of the 20,500 students have already enrolled in the iris program, which allows them to use the system at the rec center and two dining halls on campus.

In partnership with the Eagle Card Program, the university’s Recreation Activity Center (RAC) is providing the option of accessing the building through the quick, hygienic, hands-free iris recognition process.

Alternatively, students can present their ID card at the front desk or use the fingerprint reader to enter the RAC.

The rec center’s fingerprint ID method has proved to be problematic in the past, which led Campus Recreation officials to request Wynn to extend the iris recognition solution to their location.

“Since unveiling iris on campus, an average of more than 3,400 freshmen have enrolled in the program each year,” said Wynn. “And with the expansion to the RAC, even more upperclassmen have enrolled.”

Georgia Southern Informational Technology (IT) Services is also currently looking to expand the use of iris access to other areas of campus, including an art building.

Previously reported, Virginia Commonwealth University has also installed an iris recognition solution that will allow students with meal plans to access the dining hall this fall.

Article Topics

access management  |  biometric authentication  |  biometrics  |  iris recognition