Departments and programs holding events at which they plan to take payments now have the option of accepting credit cards at the event.

The Metro State Foundation has purchased two portable machines for processing credit-card payments. College groups that already have accounts with the foundation may use the machines at specific events. The machine will verify the cards’ authenticity, charge the users’ account, and send the electronic payment to the foundation’s bank account.

“Departments will need to let us know in advance that they’ll be using the machines,” said Diane McAllister, director of the foundation, “so we can plan to channel their funds into the correct account.”

McAllister said the foundation will loan the machines on a first-come, first-served basis, and will provide training on how to operate the machines.

The Metro State Alumni Association tested the machines at Spring Commencement; staff members sold flowers and, for the first time, were able to accept credit-card payments in addition to cash and checks. “It worked great; it was quick and easy to operate,” said Melissa Snider, Alumni Relations administrative assistant. “I think it increased our sales, because previously credit-card users had to fill out lengthy forms… I think the machines were definitely worth the investment.”

McAllister said the machines will not be loaned out for long-term use, such as the accepting of payments over a span of weeks in advance of an event. Day-of-event registration, however, would be an appropriate use of the machines, she said.