RPI suspends use of credit cards issued to employees

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Goot

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has suspended its employer-issued credit card program after instances of theft have been reported.

The university declined to comment on the specifics of its investigation that led to the decision.

“The decision to issue a temporary suspension of our purchase card program is an internal administrative matter. That decision is part of an ongoing effort to review existing policies and controls, and to continue to improve and enhance our business practices,” said spokesman Mark Marchand in a statement. “We are undertaking an assessment this summer of what safeguards must be built into the process to prevent future breaches, and to streamline the procedures employees use to conduct the business of the institution.”

In May, former employee Christine Dickson, 53, was arrested for allegedly using an RPI-issued purchasing card to steal more than $100,000 during a 14-month period, according to published reports. Dickson was let go in November.